I have had them for 5 years. I pay $42 a month. Maybe I need to call to get a lower rate. I like it for peace of mind. I live in a good part of town, but the bad part of town is BAD and just a few miles down the road! I just had the batteries replaced and had to pay $25 for the tech to come out. The two false alarms we have had, I was impressed. They called immediately and the police were dispatched. I agree that the sign in the yard is a big deterrent!