{"id":323318,"date":"2025-11-11T15:30:26","date_gmt":"2025-11-11T20:30:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/?page_id=111377"},"modified":"2025-11-14T08:46:23","modified_gmt":"2025-11-14T13:46:23","slug":"best-in-chicago-il","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/best-in-chicago-il\/","title":{"rendered":"The Best Home Security Systems in Chicago of 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"review\" title=\"The Best Home Security Systems in Chicago of 2025 Review\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reviews Report<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"is-style-blog-list\">\n<li>In 2025, DIY leaders like SimpliSafe, Ring, Arlo, and Abode offer flexible, no\u2011contract monitoring tiers; SimpliSafe\u2019s Fast Protect adds video\u2011assisted alarm verification, while ADT with Google Nest leads the pro\u2011installed category.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If you want deep smart\u2011home integration with professional installation, ADT with Google Nest and Vivint are standouts; if you prefer DIY flexibility, SimpliSafe, Ring, Arlo, and Abode emphasize easy setup and month\u2011to\u2011month options.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>For a budget\u2011friendly DIY setup, Ring Protect Pro offers professional monitoring around $20 per month, and Abode Pro is about $22.99 per month; several brands also provide low\u2011cost self\u2011monitoring.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>When it comes to choosing the right security system for your Chicago home, you want a company that will keep your family safe without charging you a fortune. Luckily, Chicago residents have plenty of options to choose from. We looked at leading systems and emphasized recurring monitoring costs, backup connectivity (cellular + battery), and camera features like smart detection and video verification.<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"picks\" title=\"Our Picks\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The 6 Best Home Security Systems in Chicago<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/simplisafe-review\/\">SimpliSafe<\/a>: Best for flexible, no\u2011contract monitoring and video verification<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/ring-alarm-review\/\">Ring<\/a>: Best for low-cost professional monitoring<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Arlo: Best for camera\u2011first, multifunction sensors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Cove: Best for simple DIY installation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/vivint-review\/\">Vivint<\/a>: Best for in\u2011depth home automation with pro install<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a class=\"achor-toggles\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/frontpoint-security-review\/\">Frontpoint<\/a>: Best for device options and DIY setup<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"table\" title=\"Comparison Table\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Compare the Best Chicago Home Security Systems<\/h2>\n\n\n<section id=\"block---\" class=\"theme-block c-table \">\n  \n<div class=\"row\">\n    <div class=\" h-width-100\">\n    \n      <div class=\"table-responsive table-responsive--with-summary h-shadow-2dp h-border-small\">\n        <table class=\"table table-striped table-bordered table--bordered-top table--rounded\">\n          \n          \n  <tbody>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              \n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              Reviews.com Score\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              Monitoring Prices Start At\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              Contract Length\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              Cameras\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              Sensors\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              Smart Home\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              Control Panel\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              SimpliSafe\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              4.4\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $14.99\/mo.\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No contract\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <ul><li>Indoor<\/li>\n<li>Outdoor<\/li>\n<li>Doorbell<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <ul><li>Door\/window<\/li>\n<li>Glass break<\/li>\n<li>Motion<\/li>\n<li>Smoke\/CO<\/li>\n<li>Temperature<\/li>\n<li>Flood<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              <ul><li>Lights<\/li>\n<li>Locks<\/li>\n<li>Thermostat<\/li>\n<li>Garage<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              <ul><li>\nMobile app<\/li>\n<li>Keypad<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Ring\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              4.2\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $10\/mo.`\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No contract\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <ul><li>Indoor<\/li>\n<li>Outdoor<\/li>\n<li>Doorbell<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <ul><li>\nDoor\/window<\/li>\n<li>Motion<\/li>\n<li>Smoke\/CO<\/li>\n<li>Flood<\/li>\n<li>Freeze<\/li>\n<li>Mailbox<\/li>\n<li>Garage<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              <ul><li>Lights<\/li><li>Outlets<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              <ul><li>Mobile app<\/li><li>Keypad<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Arlo\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              4\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $2.99\/mo.\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No contract\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <ul><li>Indoor<\/li><li>Outdoor<\/li><li>Doorbell<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              None\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              None\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              Mobile app\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Cove\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              3.5\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $14.99\/mo.\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No contract\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              Indoor\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <ul><li>Door\/window <\/li><li>Motion<\/li><li>Glass break<\/li><li>Smoke\/CO<\/li><li>Flood<\/li><li>Medical alert<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              None\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              <ul><li>Touchscreen panel<\/li><li>Mobile app<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Vivint\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              2.2\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $29.99\/mo.\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              42\u201360 months\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <ul><li>Indoor<\/li>\n<li>Outdoor<\/li>\n<li>Doorbell<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <ul>\n<li>Door\/window<\/li> <li>Motion<\/li><li>Glass break<\/li><li>Smoke\/CO<\/li><li>Temperature<\/li><li>Flood<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              <ul>\t<li>Lights<\/li><li>Locks<\/li><li>Thermostat<\/li><li>Garage door<\/li><li>Car guard<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              <ul><li>Touchscreen panel<\/li><li>Mobile app<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n          <tr>\n                              <td class=\"&#x20;col-1&#x20;fixed\">\n              Frontpoint\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-2\">\n              2.5\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-3\">\n              $44.99\/mo.\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-4\">\n              No contract\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-5\">\n              <ul><li>Indoor<\/li>\n<li>Outdoor<\/li>\n<li>Doorbell<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-6\">\n              <ul><li>Door\/window<\/li><li>Motion<\/li><li>Glass break<\/li><li>Smoke\/CO<\/li><li>Temperature<\/li><li>Flood<\/li><li>Garage<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-7\">\n              <ul><li>Lights<\/li><li>Locks<\/li><li>Thermostat<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                                        <td class=\"&#x20;col-8\">\n              <ul><li>Touchscreen<\/li> <li>Mobile app<\/li><li>Keypad<\/li><\/ul>\n            <\/td>\n                        <\/tr>\n      <\/tbody><!-- tbody -->\n        <\/table>\n      <\/div>\n      \n  <p>Information accurate as of March, 2021<\/p>\n    <\/div>\n    \n  <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best1\" title=\"Best for Flexibility: SimpliSafe\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"simplisafe\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">SimpliSafe<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> SimpliSafe: Best for Flexibility<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                SimpliSafe offers the most flexibility of any home security system, allowing you to choose the exact equipment and monitoring right for your needs.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/simplisafe.com\/value?utm_source=reviews&#038;utm_medium=ppc&#038;utm_campaign=201810&#038;utm_term=r16141&#038;utm=323280-20\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">4.4<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">899*<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">None<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                SimpliSafe offers the most flexibility of any home security system, allowing you to choose the exact equipment and monitoring right for your needs.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>Comprehensive professional monitoring<\/li>\n                            <li>No lengthy contracts<\/li>\n                            <li>Build-your-own system<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>Mobile alerts not available with basic plan<\/li>\n                                        <li>Limited integration with other smart devices<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window and door sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mobile phone control panel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart locks, lighting, and thermostat<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing <\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Standard: $0.50\/day<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interactive: $0.83\/day<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best2\" title=\"Ring: Best for a Budget\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"ring-security\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">Ring Security<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> Best for a Budget: Ring<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Ring provides one of the best home security systems starting at only $10 a month for professional monitoring with no contract requirement and plenty of equipment to choose from.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/gp\/product\/B07D7Q6CHB\/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&#038;camp=1789&#038;creative=9325&#038;creativeASIN=B07D7Q6CHB&#038;linkCode=as2&#038;linkId=e3ac90d888851b942b61847720ce171a&#038;tag=315890-20\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">4.2<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">882*<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">None<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Ring provides one of the best home security systems starting at only $10 a month for professional monitoring with no contract requirement and plenty of equipment to choose from.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>Optional free self-monitoring available<\/li>\n                            <li>Comparatively low-cost paid plans<\/li>\n                            <li>DIY installation<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>Video recording only available with subscription<\/li>\n                                        <li>Limited smart home devices compared to competitors<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window and door sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Mobile phone control panel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart locks and lighting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Free<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic: $3\/month<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plus: $10\/month<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best3\" title=\"Arlo: Best for Front Door Security\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"arlo\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">Arlo<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> Best for Front Door Security: Arlo<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Arlo doesn\u2019t have many add-ons when it comes to sensors or smart home devices, but because it excels in focusing on doorbell cameras and general interior\/exterior camera security, it\u2019s one of our top picks for Chicago home security systems.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.arlo.com\/en-us\/default.aspx\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">Learn more<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">4<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">NR<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">None<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Arlo doesn\u2019t have many add-ons when it comes to sensors or smart home devices, but because it excels in focusing on doorbell cameras and general interior\/exterior camera security, it\u2019s one of our top picks for Chicago home security systems.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>4K quality cameras<\/li>\n                            <li>Lowest-cost monitoring plans<\/li>\n                            <li>DIY installation<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>No equipment other than cameras<\/li>\n                                        <li>Expensive camera options<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor and outdoor cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Doorbell cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Baby monitors<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Premier: $2.99\/month for one camera or $9.99 for up to five cameras.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Elite: $4.99\/month for one camera or $14.99 for up to five cameras.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best4\" title=\"Cove: Best for Simple DIY Installation\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"cove\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">Cove<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> Best for DIY Installation: Cove<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Cove has made a name for itself because of its simple DIY installation and easy-to-use equipment.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.covetrack.com\/29T6R6\/548B3D\/?rvitemid=315972-20\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">3.5<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">NR<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">None<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Cove has made a name for itself because of its simple DIY installation and easy-to-use equipment.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>Easy DIY installation and use<\/li>\n                            <li>Smart home integration with other brands<\/li>\n                            <li>Quick communication with LiveAssist, InstaTex, and phone call<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>Monitoring plan more expensive than competitors\u2019<\/li>\n                                        <li>Only indoor camera available<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor camera<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window and door sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Touchscreen control panel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic: $0.83\/day; includes 24\/7 monitoring, environmental monitoring, triple touch communication, 24 hour battery backup, and more.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plus: $1.16\/day; includes everything in the basic plan and lifetime warranty, smartphone control, Alexa and Google home control, and more.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best5\" title=\"Vivint: Best for Home Automation\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"vivint\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">Vivint<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> Best for Home Automation: Vivint<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Vivint offers more home automation features than any of its competitors, making it the perfect choice for those wanting the ultimate, secure smart home.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/oc.brcclx.com\/t\/?lid=26673324&#038;cr=27886&#038;last_updated=1596057242&#038;rvitemid=323277-20\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">2.2<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">847*<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">Yes<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Vivint offers more home automation features than any of its competitors, making it the perfect choice for those wanting the ultimate, secure smart home.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>No contract when you buy your equipment outright<\/li>\n                            <li>More home automation options than competitors<\/li>\n                            <li>Backup battery included with your control panel<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>Requires contract<\/li>\n                                        <li>Professional installation may be required<\/li>\n                                        <li>Shorter equipment warranty and service guarantees<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window and door sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart home control panel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart locks, lighting, and thermostat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Car guard<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vivint security packages are customizable, and customers must call for a quote.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"best6\" title=\"Frontpoint: Best for Device Options\"><\/span>\n    \n\n                                                \n\n\n<section id=\"frontpoint\" class=\"block b-mini-review\">\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper\">\n                            <span class=\"b-mini-review__logo-wrapper-title\">Frontpoint<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info\">\n            <h3 class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-title\"> Best for Device Options: Frontpoint<\/h3>\n                        <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\"> Why we chose it<\/p>\n                                    <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Between sensors, smart home devices, and control panel options. Frontpoint offers more device options than any other provider, meaning you find exactly what you need to complete your system.\n            <\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar\">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-bar-button-wrapper\">\n                                <a href=\"https:\/\/oc.brcclx.com\/t\/?lid=26673786&#038;cr=28177&#038;last_updated=1598469132&#038;rvitemid=323278-20\" class=\"reviews-btn--primary\" rel=\"nofollow sponsored\">View plans<\/a>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__ratings\">\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__ratings-list\">\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">2.5<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Reviews Score\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">Score is based on company&#8217;s customer experience, financial stability, and coverage options.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">NR*<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        J.D. Power\n                                                    <span class=\"tooltip-content\">J.D. Power scores are based on surveys for customer satisfaction and product quality.<\/span>\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"b-mini-review__rating\">\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-higtlight\">None<\/span>\n                    <span class=\"b-mini-review__rating-desc tooltip\">\n                        Contract Requirement\n                                            <\/span>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info_mobile\">\n            <p class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle b-mini-review__top-info-subtitle\">Why we chose it<\/p>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__top-info-desc\">\n                Between sensors, smart home devices, and control panel options. Frontpoint offers more device options than any other provider, meaning you find exactly what you need to complete your system.\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n    <div class=\"b-mini-review__bottom-content\">\n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list-wrapper\">\n            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Pros<\/h4>\n            <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_pros\">\n                            <li>No lengthy contracts<\/li>\n                            <li>Lots of equipment to choose from<\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Cons<\/h4>\n                <ul class=\"b-mini-review__pros-cons-list b-mini-review__pros-cons-list_cons\">\n                                        <li>Expensive monitoring fees<\/li>\n                                        <li>No professional installation option<\/li>\n                                        <li>Video monitoring not available with all plans<\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n                    <\/div>\n        \n        <div class=\"b-mini-review__desc-wrapper \">\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-header\">\n                <span class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-text\">Read More<\/span>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"b-mini-review__accordion-content\">\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Equipment Available<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Window and door sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart home control panel<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Environmental sensors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smart locks, lighting, and thermostat<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                            <h4 class=\"b-mini-review__subtitle\">Plans &#038; Pricing<\/h4>\n                <div> <ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Interactive plan: $1.48\/day<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ultimate plan: $1.64\/day<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n <\/div>\n                        <div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<p><em>*J.D. Power\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/press-releases\/2024-us-home-security-satisfaction-study\">U.S. Home Security Satisfaction Study<\/a>. Based on a 1,000-point scale.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"need-to-know\" title=\"Home Security in Chicago: What You Need to Know \"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Home Security in Chicago: What You Need to Know&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Chicago, Illinois, crime statistics<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The most recent complete year of official Chicago Police Department data is 2023. Lethal violence declined from 2021 peaks, while motor vehicle theft reached modern highs. If you\u2019re planning a move, check the latest CPD Citywide CompStat and the City\u2019s open data for up\u2011to\u2011date counts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>While third\u2011party sites like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.neighborhoodscout.com\/il\/chicago\/crime#data\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"achor-toggles\">Neighborhood Scout<\/a> publish crime rate estimates, official reporting shows Chicago recorded 617 criminal homicides in 2023 and more than 30,000 motor vehicle thefts citywide.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Violent crime declined from 2021 to 2023, but property crime \u2014 especially auto theft \u2014 remains elevated compared with pre\u2011pandemic levels.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Recent years show mixed trends: shootings\/homicides are down from pandemic\u2011era peaks, while robberies rose and burglaries have seen a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcchicago.com\/news\/local\/chicago-polices-2020-crime-numbers-show-steep-increase-in-shootings-murders\/2406120\/\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"achor-toggles\">decrease<\/a> by historical standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Given this mix, investing in a right\u2011sized home security system with strong deterrence and timely alerts can help manage household risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Research your neighborhood<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not just your city\u2019s crime rate overall that you should research. It\u2019s also important to understand your specific neighborhood, especially if you\u2019re new to the area. The city is made up of 77 community areas, and CPD also reports by police district \u2014 both are available in the City\u2019s open data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>When choosing a Chicago neighborhood to call your home, consider these tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Use the City\u2019s data portal to filter by community area or police district to compare burglary, theft, robbery, and motor vehicle theft near your address.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Check year\u2011over\u2011year trends rather than a single month; seasonal patterns can affect burglary and robbery counts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Match your security gear to local risks: for porch\/package thefts, emphasize a doorbell camera; for break\u2011ins, prioritize door\/window sensors and glass\u2011break; for auto thefts, add exterior lighting\/cameras and garage sensors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There are <a href=\"https:\/\/data.cityofchicago.org\/Public-Safety\/Crimes-2001-to-Present\/ijzp-q8t2\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"achor-toggles\">interactive crime maps<\/a> residents can use to identify how their neighborhood compares to the city as a whole.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This type of information can give you important information about what type of security system to buy. For example, if you find that your particular neighborhood has a higher rate of forced entry, you might want to invest in window and door sensors.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Register your home security system in Chicago<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Many cities require homeowners to register their home security systems with the local government. In fact, you may even need a paid permit to install an alarm system. Requirements vary, but Chicago\u2019s policies focus on false alarm enforcement and emergency response processes. Verify current rules with the city before activation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Chicago enforces escalating penalties for repeated false burglar or fire alarm activations within a defined period, with notices and an appeal process. Keeping equipment maintained and using features like enhanced call verification or video verification can help reduce false dispatches.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"how-to-choose\" title=\"How to choose your Chicago home security system \"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Choose Your Chicago Home Security System<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are many home security companies to choose from, and it can easily feel overwhelming trying to choose the right one. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right home security system for you:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Interior\/exterior cameras:<\/strong> Do you want both interior and exterior <a class=\"achor-toggles\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/best-cameras\/\">security cameras<\/a> for your home, or just one or the other? Newer cameras add on\u2011device AI for person\/vehicle\/package detection and options for video verification. Consider the outdoor space available to you and a camera\u2019s temperature\/weather ratings \u2014 Chicago winters can be harsh.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Control panel:<\/strong> Each home security system will be controlled by a control panel. Some use a traditional keypad, some rely on a mobile app, and others offer a touchscreen hub. Prioritize dual\u2011path connectivity (broadband + cellular) for outages and make sure the base\/hub has battery backup.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Compatibility:<\/strong> In the digital age we live in, many of the devices in your home connect to one another. Confirm ecosystem fit (e.g., ADT with Google Nest, Alexa\/Google compatibility) and look for growing standards support like Matter and Thread if you want cross\u2011brand flexibility.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Storage:<\/strong> If your security system includes cameras, confirm whether video is stored in the cloud, locally, or hybrid \u2014 and for how long. Some plans only keep short clips unless you upgrade. Consider retention needs and privacy features like end\u2011to\u2011end encryption and activity zones.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Window\/door sensors: <\/strong>First things first, decide whether <a class=\"achor-toggles\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/door-windows-sensors-versatility\/\">window and door sensors<\/a> are important to you. While most of the security companies we\u2019ve shared do offer them, Arlo now includes multifunction \u201cAll\u2011in\u2011One\u201d sensors as part of its Home Security System. If you definitely want a company that offers window and door sensors, compare DIY versus professional installation and features like glass\u2011break detection and automation triggers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Local vs. national companies<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the decisions you\u2019ll have to make when choosing a home security company is whether to choose a local or national company. While the national companies may have more name recognition, local firms have narrowed the technology gap by using robust dealer platforms and UL 827\u2013listed monitoring partners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ultimately, you\u2019ll have to identify your priorities. Are you more concerned with turnkey professional installation and a tightly integrated ecosystem (e.g., ADT with Google Nest or Vivint), or would you prefer local technicians, more customization, and potentially month\u2011to\u2011month options from a regional provider?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table table table-striped table-bordered table--bordered-top\"><table><tbody><tr><td>Pros of local security company<\/td><td>Faster on-site service in their geography<br>Customization and multi-vendor integrations (often via dealer platforms)<br>Face-to-face consultation and local knowledge<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cons of local security company<\/td><td>Limited service area if you move<br>Contract terms and pricing vary by dealer<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Pros of national security company<\/td><td>Nationwide coverage and standardized processes<br>Integrated ecosystems (e.g., ADT with Google Nest; Vivint) and mature apps<br>DIY no-contract options from brands like SimpliSafe<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Cons of national security company<\/td><td>Multi-year contracts common when equipment is financed<br>Less flexibility for bespoke integrations<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"faqs\" title=\"FAQ\"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Chicago Home Security Systems FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"block_603ff9fcbacb2\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">How much does home security cost a month? <\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>Home security systems can range from anywhere from $0 per month for self-monitoring to more than $50 per month for a premium service. The average rate falls somewhere in between.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_603ffa0cbacb3\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Is there a monthly charge for SimpliSafe? <\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>SimpliSafe allows customers to use self-monitoring at no monthly cost. You can also upgrade to professional monitoring for anywhere from $14.99 to $24.99 per month.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"block_603ffa1ebacb4\" class=\"block b-accordion\" data-js=\"b-accordion\">\n    <div class=\"b-accordion__container\">\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__header\">\n            <a href=\"#\" class=\"b-accordion__title\" data-tag='cta' data-tag-element-type='LINK' data-tag-location='ACCORDION' data-tag-outcome='INTERNALLINK' ><h3 class=\"b-accordion__title--h3\">Does Ring work without wifi?<\/h3><\/a>\n            <span class=\"b-accordion__toggle chevron-arrow-down\"><\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"b-accordion__content\" style=\"display: none;\">\n            <p>No, Ring devices require a wireless internet connection to work properly.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n            <span class=\"b-toc-anchor\" id=\"method\" title=\"Methodology \"><\/span>\n    \n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Methodology&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>We evaluated home security companies based on equipment cost, monthly costs, contract options, installation and customer satisfaction to determine Reviews.com scores and create our best home security reviews. To compare home security companies with other providers across the board, we calculate each Reviews.com score based on the following:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul>\n<li>Monthly Price: The lower the cost of a home security company\u2019s monthly contract or plan, the higher the score. We consider typical monitoring ranges across the market and weigh plans that include cellular backup and video verification features more favorably.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Equipment Cost: Affordability is important with home security, so we awarded higher scores to home security companies with lower prices on equipment.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Contracts: Reviews.com reviewed the flexibility in contracts of the home security companies. The more flexibility, like having no long\u2011term contracts to bind customers, the higher the score.&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Customer Satisfaction: With J.D. Power\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jdpower.com\/press-releases\/2024-us-home-security-satisfaction-study\" target=\"_blank\" aria-label=\" (opens in a new tab)\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\" class=\"achor-toggles\">U.S. Home Security Satisfaction Study<\/a>, we assigned a score to each company based on the rating it received.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Installation and Resilience: We award higher scores to companies that have flexible installation options (DIY or professional), along with strong backup connectivity (cellular + battery) and options for video\u2011assisted alarm verification.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Reviews Report When it comes to choosing the right security system for your Chicago home, you want a company that will keep your family safe without charging you a fortune. Luckily, Chicago residents have plenty of options to choose from. We looked at leading systems and emphasized recurring monitoring costs, backup connectivity (cellular + battery), [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":345,"featured_media":359902,"parent":2228,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"page-templates\/template-refresh.php","meta":[],"categories":[1286],"tags":[],"post_author":[23280],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v20.8 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Best Home Security Systems in Chicago of 2025 - Reviews.com<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"When you\u2019re shopping for a home security system in Chicago, it\u2019s important to consider the features you\u2019re looking for and the unique security needs in your neighborhood.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.reviews.com\/home\/security-systems\/best-in-chicago-il\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Best Home Security Systems in Chicago of 2025 - 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