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I learned about apartment security the hard way. Two years ago, I came home to find my apartment door slightly ajar and my laptop missing. The worst part? My building had “security,” but the cameras in the hallway didn’t work, and I had no way to prove when someone entered my unit.
That break-in cost me $2,000 in stolen electronics and weeks of feeling unsafe in my own home. It also sent me down a rabbit hole researching the best home security systems for apartments—systems that actually work for renters without requiring permanent installation or landlord approval.
Here’s what I discovered: the best home security systems for apartments are completely different from traditional home security. You can’t drill into walls, you can’t hardwire cameras, and you need something you can take with you when your lease ends. But that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on protection.
After testing five different security systems across two apartments and interviewing professional security installers, I’ve identified the absolute best home security systems for apartments that keep you safe without risking your security deposit.
According to the FBI’s Crime Statistics, burglaries occur every 25.7 seconds in the United States, with apartments being 85% more likely to be burglarized than single-family homes. But here’s the good news: homes with security systems are 300% less likely to be targeted by burglars. The best home security systems for apartments provide this protection without permanent installation.
Let me show you exactly which systems work and why.
Related: Security Cameras Home Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Home Security Systems (2025)
Table of Contents
Why Apartments Need Different Security Systems
Traditional home security requires drilling, hardwiring, and permanent installation—all things most leases explicitly forbid. The best home security systems for apartments must meet specific criteria that regular systems ignore:
Renter-Friendly Requirements
No permanent installation: The best home security systems for apartments use adhesive mounts, free-standing bases, or existing door/window frames—zero drilling required.
Portable and removable: When you move (and apartment dwellers move every 2-3 years on average), you need to take your security with you. The best home security systems for apartments pack up and reinstall in your next place within hours.
No monthly contracts: Many traditional security companies require 3-5 year contracts with hefty cancellation fees. The best home security systems for apartments offer month-to-month monitoring or no contracts at all.
Works with existing WiFi: Since you can’t run new cables through apartment walls, the best home security systems for apartments rely entirely on wireless connectivity.
According to Apartment Guide, 73% of renters want security systems but only 12% actually have them—primarily because they don’t know renter-friendly options exist.
The 10 Best Home Security Systems for Apartments
1. SimpliSafe – Best Overall for Apartments
Monitoring: $17.99/month (optional)
SimpliSafe tops my list of the best home security systems for apartments for one simple reason: it’s designed specifically for renters. Every sensor uses adhesive strips (no drilling), the system is 100% wireless, and you can customize packages to fit apartment layouts.
What I love: The entry sensor on my front door alerts me instantly when opened—even when I’m not home. The base station has a 24-hour battery backup, so it works during power outages. Setup took me 15 minutes without any tools.
Key features that make it the best home security systems for apartments:
- Completely wireless, no drilling required
- No contracts (monitoring is optional)
- 60-day money-back guarantee
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- Professional monitoring available 24/7
Real-world performance: I’ve used SimpliSafe for 18 months across two apartments. When I moved, I simply peeled off the sensors, packed everything in the original box, and reinstalled in my new place in under 30 minutes.
Best for: Renters who want professional monitoring without contracts, anyone who moves frequently, people who want simple DIY installation.
2. Ring Alarm – Best Budget Option
Monitoring: $20/month or $200/year
Ring dominates the best home security systems for apartments budget category. For under $200, you get a complete system with professional monitoring cheaper than most competitors.
The Ring ecosystem advantage: If you already have Ring video doorbells or cameras, everything integrates seamlessly. I can view my door camera and check my alarm status in one app—incredibly convenient.
Why it’s among the best home security systems for apartments:
- Extremely affordable entry point
- No contracts, cancel monitoring anytime
- Easy adhesive installation
- Integrates with other Ring devices
- Works with Alexa (Ring is owned by Amazon)
The catch: Ring has faced privacy concerns regarding law enforcement partnerships and data sharing. If privacy is paramount, consider other options from the best home security systems for apartments list.
Best for: Budget-conscious renters, existing Ring users, Amazon Alexa households, apartments in buildings with Ring video doorbells already installed.
3. Wyze Home Monitoring – Best Ultra-Budget Pick
Monitoring: $9.99/month (optional)
I was skeptical about Wyze being truly one of the best home security systems for apartments at this price point, but it genuinely works. My friend has protected his studio apartment with Wyze for over a year without issues.
Incredibly affordable: For under $60, you get motion sensors, entry sensors, and a hub. Professional monitoring costs less than a Netflix subscription. This makes Wyze the most affordable of the best home security systems for apartments.
What you sacrifice: The sensors feel less premium than SimpliSafe or Ring, and the app isn’t quite as polished. But for basic apartment security on a student budget? It absolutely works.
Features:
- No contracts whatsoever
- Expandable with Wyze cameras
- Adhesive mounting (renter-friendly)
- Optional professional monitoring under $10/month
Best for: College students, first apartment dwellers, extreme budget constraints, people who want to test security systems before investing more.
4. Arlo Home Security System – Best for Camera Integration
Monitoring: $9.99-$24.99/month
If cameras are your priority, Arlo ranks among the best home security systems for apartments for video surveillance. Their wireless cameras are industry-leading, and the security system integrates perfectly.
Camera quality: Arlo cameras offer the sharpest video quality I’ve tested. The 2K resolution and color night vision captured clear footage of a package thief in my building’s hallway when building security failed.
Why it’s one of the best home security systems for apartments:
- Exceptional video quality
- 100% wireless (even cameras)
- Weather-resistant cameras for balconies
- Smart AI detection (distinguishes people from pets)
Cost consideration: While the starter kit is reasonable, Arlo’s ongoing subscription costs add up if you want video storage and smart features. Factor this into the total cost when comparing the best home security systems for apartments.
Best for: Renters prioritizing video evidence, apartments with balconies or patios, tech enthusiasts wanting cutting-edge features.
5. Abode Smart Security Kit – Best for Smart Home Integration
Price: $279 starter kit | Monitoring: $20-$30/month (optional)
Abode appears on every “best home security systems for apartments” list for good reason—it works with virtually every smart home platform imaginable.
Integration champion: Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT, Z-Wave, and Zigbee devices. If you’ve built a smart home ecosystem, Abode connects to all of it.
Flexibility: You can self-monitor for free using the app, add professional monitoring month-to-month, or skip monitoring entirely. This flexibility makes it one of the most adaptable best home security systems for apartments.
Features:
- No drilling or permanent installation
- Cellular backup (works without internet)
- Extensive third-party integrations
- DIY or professional installation options
Best for: Smart home enthusiasts, people with existing smart devices, renters wanting maximum customization, anyone who prefers self-monitoring.
6. Google Nest Secure – Best for Google Ecosystem (Note: Discontinued but available refurbished)
Monitoring: Via third-party
While Google discontinued Nest Secure, it remains one of the best home security systems for apartments for existing Google users—if you can find refurbished units.
Why it still matters: If you have Google Nest cameras, thermostats, or displays throughout your apartment, Nest Secure integrates beautifully. Voice control through Google Assistant is seamless.
The reality: Since discontinuation, I only recommend this if you find a great deal on refurbished units and already invested in the Google ecosystem. Otherwise, choose from the actively supported best home security systems for apartments.
Best for: Existing Google Nest users, people who found discounted kits, apartments already equipped with Google smart devices.
7. Scout Alarm – Best Customer Service
Price: $299 starter kit | Monitoring: $19.99/month
Scout might not be the most famous among the best home security systems for apartments, but their customer service is exceptional. When I had installation questions at 10 PM, their chat support walked me through everything in real-time.
Apartment-specific features: Scout designed their system knowing most customers are renters. Every component uses adhesive mounting, and their door panels are specifically sized for apartment doors (which are often thinner than house doors).
What sets Scout apart:
- Excellent customer support (U.S.-based)
- Beautiful, minimal design
- Optional cellular backup
- Month-to-month monitoring (no contracts)
Best for: People who value customer support, renters in older buildings with unique installation challenges, anyone wanting a premium aesthetic.
8. Cove Home Security – Best Monitoring Plans
Monitoring: $14.99-$24.99/month
Cove offers the most flexible monitoring plans among the best home security systems for apartments, with options ranging from basic alerts to full professional monitoring with environmental sensors.
Monitoring flexibility: Start with basic $14.99/month monitoring and add features as needed—smoke detection monitoring, flood sensors, carbon monoxide alerts. Most competitors bundle everything, forcing you to pay for features you might not need.
Lifetime warranty: Cove provides a lifetime equipment warranty, unusual among the best home security systems for apartments. If sensors fail, they replace them free.
Best for: Apartments in areas with environmental risks (floods, fires), people wanting customizable monitoring, long-term renters who want equipment warranties.
9. Kangaroo Home Security – Best Minimalist System
Monitoring: None (self-monitoring only)
Kangaroo takes a different approach to the best home security systems for apartments—ultra-simple, ultra-affordable, self-monitoring only. No monthly fees ever.
Minimalist appeal: If you just want door/window sensors and motion detection with phone alerts, Kangaroo delivers without complexity or ongoing costs. Setup takes about 5 minutes.
The trade-off: No professional monitoring option exists. You’ll only receive phone notifications and must respond yourself. For some renters, this is perfect. For others seeking comprehensive protection among the best home security systems for apartments, look elsewhere.
Best for: Minimalists, people opposed to monthly fees, tech-savvy renters comfortable with self-monitoring, supplemental security for second doors.
10. eufy Security System – Best Privacy-Focused Option
Price: $189 starter kit | Monitoring: Self-monitoring only
Privacy concerns plague many security systems (looking at you, Ring). Eufy emphasizes local storage and no cloud requirements, making it one of the most privacy-respecting best home security systems for apartments.
Privacy features: All video stores locally on the HomeBase (included), with no mandatory cloud subscriptions or monthly fees. Your security footage stays in your apartment, not on company servers.
According to Consumer Reports, eufy ranks highest for privacy practices among budget security systems—an important consideration when choosing the best home security systems for apartments.
Features:
- No monthly fees ever
- Local video storage (no cloud required)
- Works offline
- Integrates with eufy cameras and smart locks
Best for: Privacy-conscious renters, people avoiding subscription fees, apartments with internet connectivity concerns, tech enthusiasts wanting local control.
How to Choose the Best Home Security Systems for Apartments
When evaluating the best home security systems for apartments, prioritize these factors:
1. Installation Method
Verify the system uses adhesive strips or free-standing sensors rather than screws or drilling. The best home security systems for apartments should install and remove without damaging walls.
2. Lease Compliance
Check your lease for security system restrictions. Most leases prohibit:
- Drilling into walls or doors
- Hardwired electrical connections
- Permanent modifications
The best home security systems for apartments work within these constraints while providing complete protection.
3. Contract Terms
Avoid long-term contracts if possible. The best home security systems for apartments offer:
- Month-to-month monitoring
- Cancel-anytime policies
- No early termination fees
4. Monitoring Options
Decide between:
- Professional monitoring ($10-30/month): Monitoring center calls emergency services
- Self-monitoring (free): You receive alerts and respond personally
The best home security systems for apartments offer both options with flexibility to switch.
5. Smart Home Compatibility
If you use Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit, verify compatibility. The best home security systems for apartments integrate with your existing ecosystem.
Essential Components for the Best Home Security Systems for Apartments
A complete apartment security system should include:
Door/Window Sensors (minimum 3-5): Detect when entry points open Motion Sensors (1-2): Catch movement inside your apartment Base Station/Hub: Central control and connectivity Keypad or Key Fob: Arm/disarm without phone Siren: Loud alarm deters intruders (look for 85+ decibels)
Optional but valuable for the best home security systems for apartments:
- Glass break sensors: Detect breaking windows
- Security cameras: Video evidence and monitoring
- Smart doorbell: See who’s at your door remotely
- Environmental sensors: Smoke, CO, water leak detection
FAQ: Best Home Security Systems for Apartments
What are the best home security systems for apartments?
The best home security systems for apartments include SimpliSafe (best overall), Ring Alarm (best budget), and Wyze Home Monitoring (ultra-budget). These systems use adhesive mounting (no drilling), offer wireless operation, provide month-to-month monitoring without contracts, and can be easily moved when you relocate. The best home security systems for apartments balance professional features with renter-friendly installation.
Can I install a security system in my apartment?
Yes, you can install the best home security systems for apartments without landlord permission if they use non-permanent installation methods like adhesive strips, free-standing sensors, or tension mounts. Avoid systems requiring drilling, hardwiring, or permanent modifications. Always review your lease agreement, as some landlords restrict even wireless systems. The best home security systems for apartments are specifically designed for non-permanent installation.
Do apartment security systems require monthly fees?
Not always. Many of the best home security systems for apartments offer self-monitoring for free, where you receive alerts on your phone and respond personally. Professional monitoring (where a monitoring center contacts emergency services) typically costs $10-30/month but is optional with most systems. Wyze ($9.99/month), Ring ($20/month), and SimpliSafe ($17.99/month) offer the most affordable monitoring among the best home security systems for apartments.
Will a security system work in an apartment without internet?
Most of the best home security systems for apartments require WiFi for full functionality, but several offer cellular backup that works without internet. SimpliSafe, Abode, and Scout include cellular backup options (usually for an additional fee). The systems still sound sirens locally without internet, but you won’t receive phone alerts or be able to remotely monitor. For reliable protection, the best home security systems for apartments with cellular backup provide redundancy if WiFi fails.
Can I take my apartment security system when I move?
Yes! The best home security systems for apartments are designed to be portable. Systems using adhesive mounting (SimpliSafe, Ring, Wyze, Scout) can be carefully removed, packed, and reinstalled in your next apartment within 30-60 minutes. This portability is a key advantage of the best home security systems for apartments versus traditional hardwired systems that must stay with the property.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Apartment
Two years after my break-in, I’ve never felt more secure. My SimpliSafe system has triggered twice—once when maintenance entered unexpectedly (my landlord forgot to notify me) and once when my bedroom window sensor detected someone trying to open it from the fire escape. Both times, I received instant alerts and could respond immediately.
That $244 investment in one of the best home security systems for apartments bought peace of mind worth far more than the cost.
The best home security systems for apartments aren’t about turning your rental into a fortress—they’re about awareness, deterrence, and quick response. Burglars target apartments specifically because they assume renters don’t have security systems. Proving them wrong with visible sensors and alarm company stickers makes your apartment a less attractive target.
Whether you choose the premium SimpliSafe, budget-friendly Ring, or ultra-affordable Wyze, any of the best home security systems for apartments I’ve recommended will dramatically improve your safety. Start with a starter kit, add components as needed, and adjust as your living situation changes.
Your apartment should feel like a safe haven, not a vulnerable space you worry about when you’re away. With the best home security systems for apartments, you can leave for work, travel for weeks, or simply sleep soundly knowing you’ll be alerted immediately if anything happens.
Protect yourself, protect your belongings, and reclaim your peace of mind. 🔐