Best Affordable Rental Security Systems 

Where a break-in or vandalism leads to emotional and financial distress, the loss of peaceful sleep is what adds to the injury. Being a tenant does not mean that you can’t install a security system, and your documents, valuable, and emotional objects, stay at risk. Especially those living in surface units, shared entrances, or easily accessible balconies are more unsafe for intruders. That is why you require the best cheap security systems that ensure your safety within a limited budget.

Installing a modern DIY or no-drill security system does not need the landlord’s permission or professional installers. These are portable, wireless, and easy to install. These systems allow you to monitor and control your home from a distance using your phone. In this way, you will always know what is happening in your place when you are not there. Not just that, but when moving out, you can take your smart security system with you. 

Installing a security system may help you qualify for discounts on your renters’ insurance. This also helps you in saving your money while increasing your protection. If you are still not sure, then we suggest you ask yourself these five questions before buying:

1. Will I install this myself or need help?
2. Do I want someone to call the police for me during emergencies?
3. Do I trust my home’s Wi-Fi or need cellular backup?
4. Is this my forever home, or will I need something portable?
5. How smart do I want my system to be, just alarms, or full automation? 

Well, you know the answers. So now, let’s dig into a detailed discussion of what you need in your security system. We will also explore the best affordable rental security systems for you to choose from.

What Do Renters Need in Their Smart Security Systems?

If you’re a tenant, “managing” your rental means:

• Respecting lease terms
• Taking steps to protect your home and belongings
• Monitoring (Professional Monitoring vs App Alert)

Apart from that, you should also look for the following features in your security system:

Monitoring (Professional Monitoring vs. App Alerts)

In professional monitoring, trained agents monitor your security system 24/7. They contact emergency services on your behalf. This system is best for busy homeowners and frequent travellers. It is also suitable for those who want total peace of mind. The brands offering this system are SimpliSafe, Cove, ADT, Ring (optional), and Vivint. 

While in the self-monitoring system, you will receive alerts on your phone through the system’s app. You are responsible for contacting help if needed. This system is ideal for renters who are tech-savvy or want to avoid monthly fees. In these systems, you should look for 

• Customizable push notifications
• Smart automations
• Remote access

Connectivity (Is Cellular Backup Important for You?)

The drawback in smart rental security systems is that, when the Wi-Fi goes down or power is cut during a break-in, your system could also go offline unless it has cellular backup. The cellular backup uses a built-in SIM, which is usually 4G LTE. It helps to stay connected during internet outages. Brands offering it include SimpliSafe, Cove, ADT, Alder, Vivint, and Frontpoint.

Ecosystem (Do You Want to Stay Within a Specific Smart-Home Platform?)

If you are already using smart devices, then choose a system that integrates seamlessly. This system should be compatible with already existing home devices, including:

• Alexa / Google Assistant
• Apple HomeKit
• Z-Wave, Zigbee, Matter (for automation)

Such as:

System	Compatible With
Ring Alarm	Alexa, Ring cameras
ADT Self-Setup	Google Nest
Abode and Aqara	Apple HomeKit, Zigbee, Matter
Arlo	Works well with its integrating system

Expansion (Are You Okay with a Simple Kit or Want Room to Grow?)

The simple starter security kits offer 3-5 pieces. This comprises a hub, motion sensors, door sensors, and window sensors. The starter kit is great for small apartments. While in expandable systems, there are cameras, sirens, water and freeze sensors, also smoke detectors. 

Best Affordable Rental Security Systems

The right security system for a rental should be affordable, offer easy DIY setup, and have no long-term contracts. It must have flexible features like app alerts and smart home compatibility. So, let’s dive into our top 5 picks of affordable rental security systems for you.

SimpliSafe (best overall DIY and no-contract system)

SimpliSafe offers a powerful balance of affordability and ease of use. This system is reliable, offering a true plug-and-play system which makes it renter-friendly. SimpliSafe is best for renters, budget-conscious users, and those who want flexibility without sacrificing protection.

Key Features:

1. DIY installation takes minutes with peel-and-stick sensors
2. Alternative 24/7 professional surveillance with no long-term contracts
3. Cellular backup keeps the system operations during a Wi-Fi outage
4. Easily expandable with indoor/outdoor cameras, sensors, and smart locks
5. Self-monitoring plan available, and you can cancel anytime

Pros:

• Easy DIY installation makes it perfect for an apartment
• Easy to uninstall and move when relocating
• Self-monitoring or a 24/7 professional without contracts
• Cellular backup ensures the system stays online during Wi-Fi outages
  

Cons:

• Lacks native support for Apple HomeKit, Zigbee, Z-Wave
• Basic app features unless you subscribe to a higher plan
• Some accessories sold separately can add to the cost

2. Cove Security (best value according to SafeHome.org)

Cove provides solid security features with affordable monthly monitoring plans. You don’t need to lock yourself into a contract. It is great for budget-savvy homeowners looking for monitored protection with minimal upfront costs.

Key Features:

1. Offers touchscreen control panels, motion detectors, and medical alerts
2. Monitoring starts at just $17.99/month
3. No credit checks or long-term commitments
4. Fast shipping and setup in 30 minutes or less

Pros:

• Affordable, starts at just $17.99/month
• The touchscreen control panel
• No contracts or credit checks
• Fast shipping & 30-min setup
• Includes medical alert options
  

Cons:

• Professional monitoring is required for full use
• Not ideal for automation-heavy users
• Camera selection is basic

ADT Self-Setup (Top-Tier Equipment with No Long-Term Contracts)

ADT is a reputable name in both professional and DIY security installation solutions. This is a self-setup option giving you pro-grade gadgets. You can install it yourself and do not require any commitments. This affordable rental security system is best for tech-savvy tenants and homeowners. It is also great for renters who want professional-grade equipment and don’t mind paying a bit more for reliable coverage.

Key Features:

• Uses high-quality sensors and smart devices from ADT
• Integrates with Google Nest products
• Choose DIY installation ($25/month monitoring) or professional install ($35/month)
• Cellular backup and smart alerts keep you connected

Pros:

• Cancel anytime, no long-term commitment
• Self-monitoring or a 24/7 professional
• Cellular backup included
• Uses Google Nest cameras, doorbells, and sensors
  

Cons:

• Slightly higher price 
• Limited to the Google ecosystem
• May not appeal to non-Google users
• Fewer customization options compared to Abode or SimpliSafe

Ring Alarm(Best for Camera Integration)

The Ring alarm provides complete home protection. If you are already using a ring doorbell or camera, adding the ring alarm system is a cost -effective upgrade. Even if you are starting now, the ring makes your smart home security setup easy to make by piece by piece. It’s our top pick because this smart security system is great for existing Ring users and smart home fans looking for easy, affordable expansion.

Key Features:

1. Fully integrates with the Ring ecosystem and Alexa
2. Optional professional monitoring for just $20/month
3. No contracts, and you can cancel anytime
   Budget-friendly kits, like a 5-piece starter set for around $100
4. Mobile alerts, video history, and more via the Ring Protect Pro Plan

Pros:

• Very affordable starter kit 
• Seamless integration with Ring cameras and Alexa
• No contract, cancel anytime
• Simple DIY setup with helpful app instructions
• Optional monitoring with cellular backup at $20/month
  

Cons:

• Ring has partnerships with law enforcement
• No Apple HomeKit support
• Limited smart home controls beyond the Ring ecosystem

Abode(Best for Home Automation & Smart Compatibility)

Abode offers the most advanced smart home compatibility among DIY systems, perfect for tech enthusiasts. We suggest it for renters who love smart homes and want flexibility, customization, and advanced integrations

Key Features:

1. Works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Z-Wave
2. No mandatory subscription, but optional plans enhance functionality
3. Customizable alerts, smart routines, and camera integrations
4. Expand with environmental sensors (smoke, water, CO)
5. Self-monitor or opt into professional monitoring temporarily (e.g., during vacations)

Pros:

• Supports HomeKit, Alexa, Google, Z-Wave, Zigbee
• Custom automations and smart routines
• No contracts, with optional short-term pro monitoring
• Supports third-party devices (lights, locks, sensors)
  

Cons:

• The app can be complex for beginners
• The starter kit is pricier than the Ring or the Cove
• Customer service is hit or miss
• Camera options are not as advanced as Arlo’s

Comparison Table of Specs of Top 5 Renter-Friendly Security Systems (2025)

Features	SimpliSafe	Cove	Ring Alarm	ADT Self Setup	Abode
Starting Price Per Kit	$200	$180	$100	$250	$180
Monitoring Cost	$0 self, $18 pro, per month	$27 per month	$0 self, $20 pro, per month	$0 self, $25-$35 per month	$0 self, $6-$22 per month
Cellular Backup	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Smart Assistant Support	Alexa, Google Assistant	Alexa, Google Assistant	Alexa (Ring Ecosystem)	Google Assistant, Nest Ecosystem	Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Z Wave
Camera Options	Indoor, Outdoor, Doorbell	Add-on Indoor Camera	Indoor, Outdoor, Floodlight, Doorbell	Google Nest Doorbell, Nest Cam	Indoor, Outdoor, Doorbell
Professional Monitoring	Optional	Required	Optional	Optional	Optional
Custom Automation	Basic	Basic	Moderate	Moderate	Advanced
Smart Home Ecosystem	Limited	Limited	Ring+Alexa	Google Nest	Z Wave, Zigbee Matter
Installation	DIY (peel and stick sensors)	DIY (30 min setup)	DIY (easy with app guidance)	DIY (tool-free)	DIY (tool-free)
Mobile Alerts	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Battery Backup	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Contract Required	No	No	No	No	No

Recommendations Based on Your Scenario

If you are looking for no-contract security systems which is also affordable	Start with SimpliSafe
If you want a video-heavy setup and smart alerts	Go with Ario or Ring Alarm
If you need pro-grade equipment and monitoring	Consider ADT Self-Setup
If you want a smart home integration	Abode is an excellent hub-centric choice

Conclusion

Getting affordable rental security systems is better than being targeted by criminals. Especially if your landlord fails to implement their security measures, then you must go for a security system that provides you protection within your budget. It is a wise move to first analyze your requirements and then get the kit that satisfies your security needs, bringing you peace of mind.

FAQs

What is the best way to protect your rental property?

Install a DIY, No-Contract Security System with motion sensor, door/window contact, and safety cameras. Combine it with a smart lock and good lighting. You should also go for a tenant insurance to make a solid security plan without violating your lease. 

How can I keep my apartment safe without a security system?

You can promote your safety with a renter-friendly upgrade:

• Use a portable door lock or door jammer
• Add a window alarm or sensor
• Install a battery-powered motion light or smart bulb
• Use a privacy screen on windows to prevent visibility from outside
• Join a neighborhood that watches in your building
• Always lock doors and windows, even when you’re at home

How do I secure my property?

Start with these steps:

• Change the lock when you go in (or ask the landlord)
• Install tenant-friendly safety equipment
• Doors/windows lock and maintain well
• Use smart plugs or a timer for lights when you are away
• Get renter Insurance for personal safety
• Tell the reliable neighbors whether you will be out of the city

How do I secure my property?

Start with these steps:

1. Change locks when you move in (or ask the landlord)
2. Install renter-friendly security devices
3. Keep doors/windows locked 
4. Use smart plugs or timers for lights when you’re away
5. Get renter’s insurance for personal protection
6. Let trusted neighbors know if you’ll be out of town

How to manage the best rental property?

Screening tenants thoroughly to reduce risks

Regular maintenance and inspection

Ensuring Proper Security and Lighting

Clear lease agreements and communication with tenants

Using property management software for rent collection and repairs