Expertise.com
2024

Last updated:

Best Home Security Companies in San Diego

Our Recommended Top 16

We did the research for you!

  • Licensing
  • User Reviews
  • Mystery Shopping Calls

Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored San Diego Home Security Companies on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.

273

Reviewed

170

Curated

16

Top Picks

Learn about our selection process.

Providers

featured provider = Featured Provider

Website
6175 Progressive Avenue, San Diego, CA 92154

Why choose this provider?

CVA Security offers residential and commercial security system services in San Diego. Founded in 1976, the locally owned company specializes in alarm system installations. Its burglar alarms allow its users to arm or disarm their systems, lock or unlock access-control doors, manage system users, and control access rights. It also enables changes of holiday dates and scheduling as well as run reports for analysis and evaluation. CVA Security can also assist with CCTVs, intercom systems, access control systems, and GPS Tracking.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.1
Google
4.0 / 5 (8)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (1)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Del Mar, CA 92014

Why choose this provider?

SD Smart Engineer is a company that specializes in home automation. Established in 1997 in San Diego, California, the company offers an all-in-one solution for making homes or businesses smarter, including audio, video, telecommunications, networking, residential and commercial automation, and home theaters. As a full-service engineering firm, SD Smart Engineer can help with the design, sales, installation and programming, and maintenance of CCTV systems, security cameras, remote controls, smoke alarms, video doorbells, and other home automation devices and systems.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (67)
Facebook
5.0 / 5 (9)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
7660-H 116 Fay Ave., La Jolla, CA 92037

Why choose this provider?

California Audio Video, which is located in La Jolla, California, serves the greater San Diego area. The company has installed more than 1,000 closed-circuit television systems, including high definition and ultra high definition systems, and can assist with home theaters, lighting, thermostats, remotes, Amazon's Alexa, Google Assistant, and other smart home devices. The company, which sells discount televisions, television mounts, speaker systems, and surveillance cameras, is an authorized dealer for Bose, Jamo, Samsung, LG, and Sony.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (33)
Google
4.5 / 5 (14)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1991 Village Park Way #100, Encinitas, CA 92024

Why choose this provider?

Founded in 1978, Rancho Santa Fe Security Systems, Inc. is a family-owned and operated security services provider serving San Diego and the surrounding areas. It is an authorized Alarm.com dealer and offers products such as access control, detectors, and video surveillance which can be controlled remotely via mobile devices. It also provides monitoring using their own local station, alarm response, installation, and local dispatch of guards and patrol. It offers 24/7 customer support for any inquiries and troubleshooting concerns.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.1
Google
4.5 / 5 (52)
Facebook
4.0 / 5 (30)
Yelp
3.0 / 5 (20)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
140 Encinitas Blvd, Encinitas, CA 92024

Why choose this provider?

Wave Connects is a security system provider in Encinitas, that serves clients throughout California and North Carolina. The company primarily works with residential clients, installing burglar alarm systems and surveillance cameras. Its smart home automation services allow clients to interact with their security systems from a variety of devices. Wave Connects also provides access control installations. All technicians are insured and registered Alarm Company Employees with federal background checks and fingerprint screenings.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
1122 Wall St, La Jolla, CA 92037

Why choose this provider?

La Jolla Security Systems has provided residential and commercial security solutions in La Jolla, California, since 2009. By networking surveillance equipment to smart devices, clients have remote access to monitor their premises in real-time. Alarms can be armed or disarmed as necessity dictates. Options include integrating lighting, locks, and thermostats into the automatic system to provide convenience and additional security. Access control technology includes fingerprint and optic recognition. La Jolla Security Systems also offers full locksmithing services.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (22)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
4.5
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
3521 Columbia St., San Diego, CA 92103

Why choose this provider?

Generals Locksmith has been protecting the homes of San Diego and the surrounding communities for more than 10 years. Among the home security devices that the business installs are CCTV systems, intruder and fire alarms, biometric access, and security lighting. The company's security systems allow customers to monitor their own wireless devices. The firm also serves the metro by providing security audits and advisory. It also has locksmiths who are available on-call 24/7.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Google
4.9 / 5 (114)
Yelp
4.0 / 5 (16)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
8765 Aero Dr, San Diego, CA 92123

Why choose this provider?

Smart Shield Systems is an automation, security, and alarm systems business located in San Diego, California. The company primarily handles residential security, installing intrusion detection and surveillance networks. Remote access to cameras gives clients the ability to stream live feeds and pan or tilt camera angles from a smartphone or computer. For small and medium-sized business owners, Smart Shield offers fully automated security, permitting access to burglar alarms, surveillance, and access control from a single app.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (222)
Google
5.0 / 5 (103)
Facebook
4.9 / 5 (19)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
2418 Auto Park Way, Escondido, CA 92029

Why choose this provider?

Knight Security provides customers in the San Diego metro with home security services. Knight Security helps safeguard residential and commercial areas against fires and burglary by installing surveillance systems and fire alarm systems, including smoke and heat detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire sprinklers. The company has its own patrol service that involves security personnel who patrol the property, provide vacation checks, and respond to emergencies 24/7. Knight Security is a family-owned company that performs home security services according to its customers' needs.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.2
Google
3.6 / 5 (10)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (8)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
525 Stevens Ave W, Solana Beach, CA 92075

Why choose this provider?

Shultz Audio Video is a technology-centric security firm in Solana Beach, California, that has been working with commercial and residential clients throughout the San Diego, California, metro area for over 25 years. Shultz specializes in designing, installing, and monitoring security and surveillance systems in both homes and businesses. Water and gas leaks, unauthorized access to restricted areas, and workplace emergencies can be monitored and controlled from the company's integrated security systems.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.6
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (29)
Google
5.0 / 5 (6)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
7920 Silverton Ave, San Diego, CA 92126

Why choose this provider?

Since 1978, Sound Ideas has been working with residential clients throughout the San Diego, California, metro area to install home automation and surveillance systems. As a security provider, the company specializes in installing surveillance cameras, with capabilities ranging from simple video doorbells to multi-camera, property-wide surveillance systems that can be accessed from any smart device. Its team of experienced service technicians is available to maintain and repair all installed devices.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (5)
Google
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.5
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
5252 Balboa Ave #409, San Diego, CA 92117
  • Home Theater Installation

Why choose this provider?

Since 2005, Digital Home Lifestyles has been serving clients in San Diego and the surrounding communities. It provides home security services that include installing surveillance systems to deter intruders. Its modern surveillance systems allow clients to monitor their properties remotely. The company also provides home automation services and a home theater design with various options for surround sound receivers and speakers from Yamaha. Co-owner Ryan Behbahani worked in retail electronics for about five years.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
5.0

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
8205 Ronson Road, San Diego, CA 92111

Why choose this provider?

Bay Alarm is a locally owned and operated home security company based in San Diego. It is a third-generation family business that serves residential and commercial clients in Arizona, California, and Washington. It installs security cameras, burglar alarm systems, fire alarms, and smoke detectors. It also provides live video, alarm monitoring, and security agent services. Bay Alarm has been in the industry for over 75 years and has employees with an average tenure of a decade.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.8
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (122)
Google
3.0 / 5 (14)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
Clairemont, San Diego, CA
  • Pro Installation

Why choose this provider?

California Alarm provides security solutions for homes and businesses in and around the San Diego area. Its team installs new security alarms without the need for paint and drywall repairs. Its technicians also upgrade alarms that are over three years old. They set up security systems equipped with touchscreen panels and cellular communication. They handle both wired and wireless security systems. California Alarm has been protecting residential and commercial properties for more than a decade.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.9
Google
5.0 / 5 (10)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (10)
Yelp
5.0 / 5 (3)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Website
939 University Ave, Suite 100, San Diego, CA 92103
  • CCTV Systems

Why choose this provider?

Since 1914, Grah Safe & Lock has been a source of security systems in San Diego and the surrounding areas. Its team installs various home security devices, including video surveillance cameras and access control devices. This family-owned company also offers a range of in-store and mobile locksmith solutions, from key duplication and safe installation to rekeying. Grah Safe & Lock is a certified member of the Associated Locksmiths of America. Additionally, it is an authorized Medeco security center.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.5
Google
4.7 / 5 (92)
Yelp
4.2 / 5 (82)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (35)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
3.8
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail
––

Website
111 S. Marshall Ave, El Cajon, CA 92020

Why choose this provider?

Alarm Relay is a family-run business that assists clients in San Diego. The company has installed, repaired, and maintained security systems for 47 years. It can update old systems or set up new ones for residential and commercial spaces. It manages and controls security services in-house and responds to alarm triggers. The business also provides a combination of security and home automation systems that give homeowners control over their smartphones' lights, locks, and thermostats.

Reputation:

We scour the internet for reviews from well-known resources. Each provider is evaluated based on the quality and quantity of their reviews, their presence on multiple review sites, and their average minimum rating.
4.7
Google
4.8 / 5 (213)
Yelp
4.5 / 5 (209)
Facebook
4.8 / 5 (203)

Professionalism:

We hire mystery shoppers to call our providers anonymously and evaluate them. Providers who respond quickly, answer questions thoroughly, and communicate politely score higher.
5.0
Responsiveness
Friendliness
Helpfulness
Detail

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Introduction

    The phrase "home security system" is a blanket term for all of the hardware and supporting software that creates a network with the purpose of protecting a person's home, possessions, and family. A home security system can include an alarm, a series of cameras, security lights, and anything else used to protect private property.

    To find the best security system for your home, you'll need to consider your preferences. Some options lean more toward easy installation and customization, while others offer comprehensive monitoring and around-the-clock support.
  • How much is a home security system?

    The total price of most home security systems includes a one-time charge for equipment and installation plus a monthly monitoring fee. The installation/equipment charge is typically around $200 but depends on the equipment you select. For monitoring, expect to pay an average of $15 to $35 per month.

  • Who invented the home security system?

    Marie Van Brittan Brown invented an early version of the modern home security system in 1966 with the help of her husband, Albert. Simple yet highly advanced for its time, Brown's system made use of peepholes, a closed-circuit camera system, a two-way microphone, and an emergency alarm.

  • How much does a home security system cost?

    The cost of a home security system depends on the size of your home and the number of features you choose. Installation costs an average of $200, while monitoring can range anywhere from $10 - $15 per month for a doorbell camera. Every option has its own spectrum of prices. It's best to decide what suits your needs and price it out from there.

  • Are home security systems worth it?

    When deciding if a home security system is worth the investment, it's important to consider everything you're getting for the cost. A safer place to live is the obvious benefit, but you may also be able to lower your homeowner's insurance, protect your valuables, and of course — peace of mind.

  • Are wireless home security systems reliable?

    Wireless security systems are only reliable if they have a wired backup option. Because of the relative inconsistency in the connection of a wireless network, a lapse in latency or even a momentary connection drop can cause problems if there isn't a wired system to fall back on.

  • Do you need a permit for a home security system?

    Many municipalities and local governments require a permit to activate a home security system. The primary reason is that many alarm systems can automatically notify police and fire response, and governments have instituted regulations to prevent false alarms. Check with your county to be sure.

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