Starter security systems usually cost $100 to $300 to set up. Monthly charges seldom exceed $50. Some companies charge a hefty setup fee, while others don't. Some companies offer monitoring services with free or discounted equipment, as long as you sign a contract. Home security costs can include upfront equipment and setup plus recurring monthly fees for monitoring services. If the system requires professional installation, you might have to pay more than just the listed price. With some of the top cheapest home security systems, you can get started for under $100 with monthly fees around $10.