Have you ever wondered if that security system you're considering is actually protecting what matters most, or just giving you a false sense of security? The answer might surprise you...
Oklahoma City has transformed itself into a vibrant urban center with incredible attractions like the Bricktown Entertainment District and world-class museums. But alongside this growth comes a sobering reality: security concerns that residents can't afford to ignore.
As someone who's spent 2024 testing security systems (yes, we installed and lived with 5 different professional systems in the same house), I've seen firsthand how the marketing hype often doesn't match reality. Having gone through multiple installations, monitoring tests, and even simulated break-ins, I'm here to cut through the noise and help you make choices that actually protect your home.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. But that doesn't mean you need to overspend either. The sweet spot is finding a system that offers reliability at a reasonable price point.
In our testing, we found systems priced between $30-50/month for monitoring with equipment costs between $600-1200 provided the best balance. Anything significantly cheaper often compromised on crucial features or reliability, while more expensive options added bells and whistles that most homeowners rarely used.
Here's something the industry doesn't emphasize enough: the security features you'll use daily aren't always the ones they highlight in commercials.
Our testing revealed that video doorbells and garage control functionality were by far the most frequently used features across all systems. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere or checking whether you closed the garage after leaving provides immediate, practical value that goes beyond traditional security.
Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint excel in these everyday convenience features, with interfaces that even the least tech-savvy family members could master.
Security isn't just about preventing break-ins—it's about comprehensive protection. The best systems integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection alongside intrusion prevention. This holistic approach means you're covered against multiple threats, not just burglary.
It's 2025, and security technology has made significant leaps. Today's systems offer:
However, some aspects of security remain timeless: proper sensor placement, reliable monitoring, and rapid response protocols will never go out of style. The best installers combine cutting-edge technology with these fundamental principles.
ADT operates as the largest security provider in the United States, with multiple monitoring centers that provide redundancy if one location experiences issues. Their model focuses on professional monitoring with trained specialists who verify alarms before dispatching authorities.
SafeStreets is an ADT authorized dealer—essentially a local company that sells, installs, and services ADT equipment under strict guidelines. Your contract is ultimately with ADT for monitoring, while SafeStreets handles the local service aspects. This relationship gives you the stability of a national brand with more personalized local service.
Vivint takes a different approach with their direct sales and service model. They design, manufacture, install, and monitor their own proprietary equipment, giving them complete control over the customer experience. Their systems excel at smart home integration, with some of the most intuitive interfaces we've tested.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same central monitoring stations. Alarm.com provides the technology platform for thousands of local dealers nationwide, while ADT maintains their own proprietary monitoring infrastructure. This means the actual alarm response process might be nearly identical between a local company and a national brand.
Even as a tech journalist who's installed dozens of gadgets, I was humbled by what I didn't know about proper security installation. Professional installers understand critical factors like:
When homeowners install their own systems, we consistently see the same critical errors:
When it comes to protecting your family, the professional installation cost (typically $99-299) is a small price for proper protection.
The statistics paint a concerning picture: property crime in Oklahoma City is 99% higher than the national average, while violent crime exceeds the national average by 87%. The city receives a crime grade of 0 (on a scale where 100 is safest).
These numbers matter not just for the 40.7% who own homes but also for the 59.3% who rent. Security isn't a luxury—it's increasingly becoming a necessity for all residents.
While local companies often advertise lower prices, our testing revealed the value proposition isn't always straightforward. National providers like SafeStreets and Vivint offer:
For most Oklahoma City homeowners, the slight premium for these national installers (typically 10-15% more than local options) provides valuable peace of mind and reliability that's worth the investment.
Don't compromise on your family's safety—prioritize professional installation from established providers who will be there when you need them most.
Oklahoma City has a population of 947,247 and is located in Oklahoma County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $56,456. Median home value is $159,924, and the median rent is $884/month. With a median age of 34.4 years old, 31.4% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 24.4% having an income over $100,000. 45.1% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.
Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.
Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.
SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.
