Rural Security Systems
According to the Census Bureau (2017), “[1] in [5] Americans live in rural areas.” For those who are familiar with rural living, this typically means quieter evenings, more privacy, and unfortunately for some, inconsistent Internet. However, living in a rural area doesn’t disqualify you from finding what you need to secure your home. Break-ins can happen anywhere, and if you’re searching for the right provider, we share our top 5 picks and their features for rural home security.
Compare Rural Security Systems
 SimpliSafe Security |  Link Interactive | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Starting price for professional monitoring | $35.99/mo. | $29.99/mo. | $14.99/mo. | $44.99/mo. | $30.99/mo. |
Installation type | Professional | Professional | DIY or Professional | DIY | DIY |
Contract | 3 years | 42 - 60 months for financing | No contract required | No contract required | 1-3 years |
Trial Period | 6 months | 3 days | 60 days | 30 days | 30 days |
BBB rating | A+ | C- | A+ | A+ | A+ |
What is the best home security system for you?
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Compare Cheap Home Security Providers
- Best overall DIY security system
Our take on SimpliSafe Home Security:
SimpliSafe Home Security is our top pick for inexpensive monitoring, durable equipment, and reliable services that simplify home security. You’ll have all the right devices and features to give you peace of mind — even when the unexpected happens.
Pros
- Inexpensive professional monitoring
- Wireless equipment
- Cellular monitoring
Cons
- Mobile alerts not available in the basic monitoring plan
- No selection of smart home devices
- Smart home capabilities not available in the basic monitoring plan
- Best home security for industry experience
Our Take on ADT Home Security
ADT Home Security is a well-known name in the home security industry. It offers traditional security that requires professional installation and monitoring at a steep price.
Pros
- 6-month money-back guarantee
- $500 theft protection guarantee
- High-quality equipment
Cons
- Must pay for an extended warranty
- Lengthy contracts
- More expensive than competitors
- Best smart home security
Our Take on Vivint Home Security
Vivint is our top choice for smart home security with an extensive line of equipment filled with smart features. The control panel also doubles as a smart hub. The only downside is that Vivint requires a long-term contract if you finance the equipment. Professional monitoring and installation are also required.
Pros
- Smart Hub to connect and control smart home and security devices
- Extensive smart features for security equipment including package detection and Smart Deter
- Wide range of security and smart home equipment
Cons
- Contract required for service and financed equipment.
- Professional monitoring and installation required
- Expensive equipment compared to other providers
- Best pet-friendly home security
Our Take on Frontpoint Home Security
Frontpoint Security lets you choose both your package and monitoring plan to help build the best home security system for renters and homeowners alike. Monitoring can be costly, but free DIY installation helps lower costs without reducing reliability or protection.
Pros
- No lengthy contracts
- Excellent customer service
- Variety of equipment to choose from
Cons
- Monitoring fees are relatively expensive
- Short trial period (30 days)
- No professional installation option
Our Take on Link Interactive Home Security
Link Interactive is the perfect middle ground between SimpliSafe and ADT. A contract is required, but you can determine the length. Like SimpliSafe, Link Interactive offers “smash and crash protection” to call for help even if burglars break your control panel. Wireless smart home and security equipment are available and easy to set up. Best of all, if you’re not satisfied with your service, Link Interactive offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Pros
- 30-day money-back guarantee
- Wide range of smart home and security equipment
- Multiple security and doorbell camera options
Cons
- Contract required
- No professional installation option
- Professional monitoring is required
Frequently Asked Questions About Rural Security Systems
No, not all security systems require a phone line. You can choose a provider that offers cellular monitoring (which we highly recommend). However, we do understand that some rural areas may not be able to receive strong cellular signals, so if you choose a security system with a landline, we’d recommend getting cellular backup in case of a power outage or if you have spotty WiFi.
No, for most providers you do not need a WIFI connection to use a home security system. The only instances in which WIFI is typically used with a home security system is for monitoring and smart home devices.
Generally, you can choose between a landline, broadband, or cellular connection for monitoring. Most providers offer cellular monitoring, eliminating the need for WIFI. If, however you want to use smart home devices, the need for WIFI will depend on the devices you choose.
Yes, SimpliSafe can work in rural areas. SimpliSafe partners with Verizon and T-Mobile to use their cellular networks.
Yes, most cheap home security systems have a monthly monitoring fee unless you decide to monitor your own system. In that case, you may be able to avoid this fee.
As with most home security systems, you’ll get the essentials: a control panel, motion sensor(s), door/window sensors, and signage. If you want additional equipment like security cameras, smart home devices, smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, glass break sensors, and other devices, you can expect to pay more. If you want some of these additional features for less, we’d recommend providers like Blue by ADT and Cove.