Have you ever wondered if the security system protecting your family would actually work when you need it most? After testing five different professionally installed systems in the same house, I discovered some shocking truths about home security that changed everything I thought I knew.
Shreveport has a lot going for it—from its vibrant arts scene to its Southern charm and hospitality. But like any city, it faces security challenges that homeowners can't afford to ignore.
As we head into 2025, Shreveport's crime statistics remain concerning: property crime rates are 145% higher than the national average, while violent crime sits at 138% above average. With a crime grade of 0, security isn't just a luxury—it's a necessity for both the homeowners and the 54.2% of residents who rent.
After spending the last year testing five different professionally installed security systems in our test home, I've seen firsthand what works, what doesn't, and what's worth your money. Let me cut through the marketing hype and give you the real scoop on securing your Shreveport home.
When it comes to home security, the cheapest option is rarely the best. Think of it like insurance—you hope you never need it, but when you do, you want it to work flawlessly. In our testing, we found systems priced in the middle range typically offered the best balance of reliability and affordability.
The difference between a $20/month system and a $50/month system isn't just in the price—it's in the response time, equipment quality, and service when things go wrong. When an intruder is testing your back door at 2 AM, that difference matters.
Here's something most security companies won't tell you: the features you'll use most often have nothing to do with burglars. In our year of testing, we found video doorbells and garage door controls were used daily, while the actual security system was (thankfully) rarely needed for emergencies.
The 2025 versions of video doorbells from ADT (with their Google Nest integration) and Vivint are game-changers. Being able to see who's at your door from anywhere, speak to delivery drivers, or check if your teenager actually came home by curfew—these become the features you'll wonder how you lived without.
A proper security system isn't just about stopping break-ins—it's about comprehensive home safety. Modern systems now integrate fire, carbon monoxide, and water leak detection. In fact, fire protection might be the most valuable aspect of your system, as it works 24/7 whether you're home or away.
Security technology has evolved dramatically, but some principles remain constant. In 2025, we're seeing:
What hasn't changed? The importance of proper sensor placement, quality equipment, and reliable monitoring. A fancy touchscreen panel means nothing if the basic detection components aren't installed correctly.
ADT operates with a network of six monitoring centers across the country. This redundancy means if one center goes offline due to a natural disaster, others take over seamlessly. Think of it like having multiple backup generators—you're never left vulnerable.
SafeStreets isn't ADT—they're an authorized dealer. This means they sell and install ADT equipment and services, but operate as a separate business. The benefit? You get ADT's monitoring and technology with potentially more personalized installation service. The potential downside? An extra layer between you and the company ultimately responsible for your monitoring.
Vivint takes a different approach—they handle everything from sales to installation to monitoring in-house. This vertical integration means fewer communication issues and more consistency, but can sometimes mean higher prices since there's no competitive dealer network.
Here's an industry secret: many local security companies use the same central monitoring stations. Companies like Alarm.com provide the backend technology for countless local dealers nationwide. This means your local provider might be using identical monitoring services to national brands, just with a different name on the bill.
Even as a tech writer who's built computers from scratch, I still recommend professional installation for security systems. Here's why: security pros know things you don't.
They understand that a motion sensor placed too close to a heating vent will trigger false alarms. They know exactly how high to mount sensors to avoid pets while catching intruders. They recognize potential entry points you might overlook.
In our testing, we found DIY installations often made critical errors:
When it comes to your family's safety, the few hundred dollars saved on installation isn't worth the risk of these common mistakes.
While local companies often advertise lower prices, our testing revealed that the stability, consistency, and advanced technology offered by established national installers like SafeStreets and Vivint typically justify their slightly higher costs.
Local companies can offer personalized service and sometimes more competitive pricing, but they may lack the resources for rapid response to service issues or the R&D budgets to keep technology current.
When it comes to something as important as your family's safety, the peace of mind that comes with established providers and professional installation is worth every penny. Don't leave your security to chance—invest in professional installation from a reputable provider. Your family deserves nothing less.
Shreveport has a population of 291,388 and is located in Caddo County. According to recent ACS data from the U.S. Census Bureau, the median household income is $40,809. Median home value is $146,986, and the median rent is $827/month. With a median age of 36.1 years old, 26% of residents over the age of 24 have at least some college education, with 17.3% having an income over $100,000. 36.3% of households are married.
According to the 2020 Decennial Census, the racial breakdown was as follows:
Home security is more than just cameras that capture bad actors committing crimes. Smart home features such as automated lighting are underrated features that can prevent thefts before they happen.
Professional monitoring is a must, and the choice generally comes down to a balance between the latest technology, overall price, and the service you receive for installation and on-going maintenance.
Our pick for the best home security system is ADT, with its exceptional reputation for customer satisfaction and professional installation, followed closely by Vivint which while slightly more expensive, has the most advanced security technology for your home.
SimpliSafe is our home security system recommendation for renters with its great balance of features and value, while offering minimal installation effort and reasonably priced professional monitoring.
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