Ever wonder if your home security system is actually doing its job, or just giving you a false sense of security? I did too, which is why I spent the last year testing five different professionally installed systems in my York test house. What I discovered might surprise you...
York, Pennsylvania has a rich historical charm with its beautiful Colonial-era architecture and vibrant downtown. But behind the picturesque façade lies a concerning reality: property crime rates 37% higher than the national average and violent crime rates a staggering 64% above the national average. With a crime grade of 0, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 41.7% of residents who rent.
As we move into 2025, I want to cut through the marketing hype and give you the straight facts about what really works to keep your home safe. After living with multiple systems and seeing the installation process from start to finish, I've learned what matters and what's just flashy tech that doesn't improve your security.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. However, the most expensive isn't automatically superior either. What matters is the relationship between cost and reliability. In my testing, I found systems that cost twice as much but only delivered marginally better protection.
The sweet spot? Systems that offer 24/7 professional monitoring with cellular backup (not just Wi-Fi) and have redundant monitoring centers. This ensures your home stays protected even during power outages or internet disruptions—something we've seen plenty of in York during storm season.
Here's something the security companies don't always emphasize: the features you'll use daily aren't always the core security components. After testing multiple systems, I found that video doorbells and garage door controls were by far the most frequently used features.
Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere, letting in a neighbor to water plants while you're away, or checking if you closed the garage door after leaving—these conveniences quickly become indispensable. Both ADT (through their Google Nest partnership) and Vivint excel in these areas with intuitive interfaces and reliable performance.
A security system isn't just about preventing break-ins—it's about comprehensive home safety. The best systems integrate fire and carbon monoxide detection alongside intrusion protection. This holistic approach means you're covered for multiple threats, not just burglary.
Think of it this way: you're not just buying equipment; you're investing in peace of mind. And that's something my testing revealed can't be measured purely in dollars and cents.
Security technology has made impressive leaps in 2025. AI-powered cameras can now distinguish between a person, pet, vehicle, or package with remarkable accuracy. False alarms have decreased dramatically thanks to these improvements.
However, some aspects of security remain timeless. Motion sensors still form the backbone of any good system. Door and window sensors are still essential. What's changed is their reliability, battery life, and integration capabilities.
The most significant advancement? The seamless integration between security and smart home features. Your security system is no longer a standalone product but the central nervous system of your entire home.
ADT is the oldest and largest security provider in America, with monitoring centers across the country providing redundancy if one center experiences issues. What many don't realize is that when you call "ADT," you're often actually dealing with an authorized dealer like SafeStreets.
SafeStreets is ADT's largest authorized dealer, handling sales, installation, and initial customer service. However, the actual monitoring is done by ADT's centers, and you're bound by ADT's terms and standards. This arrangement allows for wider geographic coverage while maintaining consistent monitoring quality.
Vivint operates differently, using a direct sales and installation model. When you get Vivint, you're dealing with Vivint employees throughout the process—from sales to installation to monitoring. This vertical integration allows for tighter quality control but sometimes at a premium price point.
Their smart home integration is among the best I've tested, with particularly smooth control of thermostats, locks, and lighting alongside security features.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same backend monitoring platforms. Alarm.com powers many local dealers' systems, while ADT uses their proprietary monitoring network.
This means the actual "watching" of your home often happens on similar infrastructure regardless of whose name is on your bill. The difference comes in service quality, response protocols, and equipment offerings.
Even as a tech writer who's comfortable with complex gadgets, I strongly recommend professional installation for security systems. Why? Because professionals know the "tricks of the trade" that aren't obvious to homeowners.
For instance, professionals understand the optimal height and angle for motion sensors to avoid false alarms from pets while still detecting intruders. They know which corners create blind spots and how to position equipment to eliminate them. They also implement tamper protection measures that DIYers often overlook.
During my testing, I intentionally tried the DIY approach before having professionals install systems. The most common mistakes I made included:
These aren't just minor oversights—they're security vulnerabilities that could render your entire system ineffective when you need it most.
With property crime 37% above the national average and violent crime 64% higher, York residents face real security challenges. These aren't just statistics—they represent real homes and families affected by crime.
For the 41.7% of York residents who rent, security is equally important but presents different challenges. Simplisafe offers the best portable option that can move with you, while still providing professional monitoring.
After testing multiple systems and installation experiences, I've found that while local companies often offer competitive pricing and personalized service, the national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint provide advantages in reliability, technology, and consistency that are worth the slightly higher cost for most homeowners.
The peace of mind that comes from knowing your system is backed by multiple monitoring centers, tested technology, and established response protocols is difficult to quantify but impossible to ignore.
Whatever you choose, don't compromise on professional installation. The security of your home and loved ones is too important to leave to chance or amateur work. Make the call today—your future self will thank you for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your home is truly secure.
York has a population of 236,818 and is located in York County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $36,320. Median home value is $76,716, and the median rent is $848/month. With a median age of 32.2 years old, 14.8% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 10.2% having an income over $100,000. 28.6% 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.
