When considering a home security system, one of the most common questions is about the cost. For those exploring Vivint, a leading smart home security provider, understanding the Vivint alarm system cost is crucial for making an informed decision. This guide will break down all the expenses involved, from equipment and installation to monthly monitoring fees, helping you determine if Vivint fits your budget and security needs.
The total Vivint alarm system cost is not a single flat fee but is composed of several components. These typically include the cost of the equipment, installation charges, and ongoing monthly fees for professional monitoring and smart home services. The final price can vary significantly based on the specific equipment you choose, your home’s size, and any ongoing promotions or financing options available.
Let’s start with the equipment. Vivint systems are sold as customizable packages. You don’t pay for a one-size-fits-all bundle; instead, you build a system tailored to your home.
- Starter Packages: A basic system might start with a smart hub, a doorbell camera, and a few door/window sensors. The retail cost for such a starter setup can range from approximately $200 to $600.
- Mid-Range Systems: Adding more components like indoor/outdoor cameras, smart locks, and glass break sensors can increase the equipment cost to between $600 and $1,200.
- Comprehensive Smart Home Systems: For a fully integrated smart home with multiple cameras, environmental sensors (like CO and water leak detectors), and extensive automation, the equipment cost can exceed $1,500.
It’s important to note that Vivint frequently offers promotions that can significantly reduce the upfront equipment cost, sometimes even offering free components when you sign up for a monitoring plan.
Next is the professional installation fee. Unlike DIY systems, Vivint emphasizes professional installation to ensure everything is set up correctly and integrated seamlessly.
- Standard Installation Cost: The typical installation fee ranges from $99 to $199. This fee covers the technician’s time to install your core equipment, configure the system, and walk you through its operation.
- Complex Installations: For larger homes or systems requiring extensive wiring or drilling (e.g., for hardwired cameras or thermostat replacements), the installation cost may be higher.
Many customers find that the professional installation is worth the cost for the peace of mind it provides, knowing the system is optimized for their home’s layout.
The most recurring part of the Vivint alarm system cost is the monthly monitoring fee. This is a mandatory subscription that enables 24/7 professional monitoring, cellular backup, and access to the Vivint app.
- Smart Security Plan: This is the core plan, typically starting at around $29.99 per month. It includes professional monitoring for security sensors, fire and CO monitoring, and basic smart home control.
- Smart Home Complete Plan: This is the more popular and comprehensive plan, usually priced at approximately $39.99 to $44.99 per month. It includes everything in the Smart Security plan plus full video recording (cloud storage for cameras), smart home automation features, and extended warranty on equipment.
These monthly fees are essential for the system to function fully. Without a monitoring plan, many features, including remote access and professional emergency dispatch, will not be available.
Vivint offers several ways to manage the upfront Vivint alarm system cost, making it more accessible.
- Financing: Vivint provides financing options through a partnership with Citizens Bank. Qualified customers can finance their entire equipment and installation cost over a 42- to 60-month period. This means you could pay for a $1,500 system with low monthly payments added to your monitoring bill, sometimes with a $0 down payment.
- Promotions and Deals: Keep an eye on Vivint’s website or inquire about current deals. It’s common to see offers for free equipment upgrades, discounted installation, or a reduced first-month monitoring fee.
To put it all together, let’s look at a realistic cost scenario for the first year and beyond.
Year 1 Cost Example (with financing):
- Equipment & Installation: $1,200 financed at $40/month for 60 months.
- Monthly Monitoring (Smart Home Complete): $45/month.
- Total Monthly Cost (Year 1): $40 (equipment) + $45 (monitoring) = $85 per month.
- Total First-Year Cost: $85 x 12 months = $1,020.
Long-Term Cost (After equipment is paid off):
- Total Monthly Cost (Year 6): $45 (monitoring only).
- Annual Cost: $540.
This example illustrates how the cost structure shifts over time, with higher initial payments that decrease once the equipment is paid for.
When evaluating the Vivint alarm system cost, it’s vital to consider the value you receive for your money.
- Comprehensive Integration: Vivint’s strength is its deeply integrated ecosystem. All devices work together seamlessly through the central panel and app, allowing for sophisticated automations.
- Professional Monitoring and Response: The monthly fee includes UL-listed professional monitoring, which means trained agents will dispatch police, fire, or medical services in an emergency, even if you’re unavailable.
- Equipment Quality: Vivint uses high-quality, proprietary equipment that is often more robust and feature-rich than many DIY alternatives.
- Warranty and Service: The Smart Home Complete plan includes an extended equipment warranty, protecting your investment from defects.
While the initial and monthly costs are higher than some DIY systems, the integration, reliability, and professional service provide significant value for many homeowners.
Before making a final decision, it’s wise to get a precise quote. The Vivint alarm system cost is highly personalized.
- Contact Vivint: Schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a Vivint representative. They will assess your home’s needs and provide a detailed, itemized quote.
- Ask the Right Questions: Inquire about current promotions, the total financed amount, the annual percentage rate (APR) on financing, and the exact monthly total including both monitoring and equipment payments.
- Read the Contract: Vivint typically requires a long-term contract (often 4-5 years) for financed equipment. Understand the terms, including the cancellation policy and any early termination fees.
In conclusion, the Vivint alarm system cost is an investment in a comprehensive, professionally installed, and monitored smart home security solution. While the upfront and monthly fees are on the higher end of the home security spectrum, the seamless integration, high-quality equipment, and reliable professional monitoring offer substantial value. By understanding all the cost components and taking advantage of financing and promotions, you can determine if the protection and peace of mind offered by Vivint align with your home security goals and budget.