How Much Does a Medical Alert System Cost?
The average monthly cost of a medical alert system in 2025 is $37
Updated: June 6, 2025
At a glance:
- The average cost of a medical alert system is around $37 per month, ranging between $25 and $50 depending on various features.
- The average cost of an in-home medical alert device is $20 to $40 a month, while the average cost of a mobile device that uses a cellular connection is $30 to $50 a month.
- ADT is one of the more expensive medical alert device brands, with average costs ranging starting at $46 a month. Bay Alarm Medical is one of the most affordable brands, with monthly costs starting at $25.
Medical alert systems, also referred to as personal emergency response systems (PERS), are on-the-go devices that help seniors and other vulnerable groups get emergency help when needed. If you have a chronic health condition that puts you at risk, this vital help button gives you access to immediate care. Monitored medical alert systems connect you to a call center that alerts emergency responders in the event of break-ins, fires, or natural disasters.
However, investing in this technology comes with various expenses and fees, often not covered by insurance. From the initial cost of in-home monitoring equipment to activation and monitoring fees, this guide covers everything you need to know about medical alert system prices.
Read on to learn what questions you need to ask to find the best medical alert system for your unique situation.
Medical Alert System Cost Breakdown
Typical medical alert devices cost between $25 and $37 per month ($31 on average), while devices with more features, like Medical Guardian’s, range between $32 and $47 per month. The price you will pay largely depends on the equipment and services you choose.
- Startup Costs: These can include one-time installation and activation fees, like the cost of in-home base units and mobile devices.
- Monitoring Fees: The typical monthly, reoccurring charge for emergency response services.
- Equipment and Add-ons: Extra features like fall detection and GPS tracking add to the overall cost.
- Maintenance and Repairs: Expect to occasionally repair, upgrade, and maybe replace your system.
- Cancellation Fees: Some companies charge for early termination, especially with leased equipment or long-term contracts.
The true cost of your new medical alert system depends on the type of system, its features, and the contract you sign. For example, systems that include automatic fall detection tend to be more expensive. We always recommend reading the fine print of any contract before signing, as some companies may require you to pay for equipment, activation fees, and more.
Here are the average costs of medical alert subscriptions and accessories:
| Item | Cost Range | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment & Devices | $0-$350+ | Base units, alert buttons, and devices. Some plans offer no-cost equipment as part of a larger contract, but not all. These costs are also more common with on-the-go systems. |
| Monthly Monitoring | $25-50 a month | Covers 24/7 monitoring services. In-home plans tend to cost less, while mobile systems are more expensive. |
| Activation Fees | $0-$100 | This one-time activation fee may or may not be waived depending on providers and plans. |
| Setup & Installation | $25-$100 | Optional or required fee for professional installation or setup support. |
| Automatic Fall Detection | $5-$10 a month | Some systems include this optional feature that automatically places a call when you fall. This may or may not be an additional cost. |
| Additional Features | Varies | GPS tracking, voice-activated help, extra buttons, lockboxes, or insurance for loss or damage. Prices and availability vary greatly by provider. |
| Shipping | Varies | Whether or not you get charged for shipping depends on the company. |
| Cancellation Fees | $0-$200 | Early termination of service, especially with leased equipment, may result in these fees. |
Medical Alert System Prices By Brand
The cost of your medical alert system also varies by brand. Here are some trusted medical alert brands, all offering different types of devices and services:
| Brand | Monthly Cost Range | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Medical Guardian | $32-$47 a month | • Fall detection • GPS tracking • Smartwatch option • Jewelry-style pendants • Voice-activated wall buttons • Lockbox • Device protection plan |
| Bay Alarm Medical | Starting at $25 a month | • Fall detection • GPS tracking • SOS Smartwatch • In-car medical alert device • Mobile app for caregiver tracking |
| MobileHelp | $25-$50 a month | • Fall detection • GPS tracking • No landline required • Text notifications for alerts • Mobile app for caregivers |
| ADT | $29.99 – $39.99 a month | • Fall detection pendant • GPS tracking • Home temperature monitoring • Waterproof wall-mount buttons • Lockbox option |
| Life Alert | $50-$90 a month | • GPS tracking • Long battery life • Waterproof help buttons • Intrusion alert capability |
Types of Medical Alert Devices and Equipment
Medical alert devices come in a variety of shapes and sizes, both on-the-go and in-home varieties. Here are some of the most common types outlined:
In-Home Equipment
Often more affordable, but also more limited, these devices are designed for users who primarily want protection inside their home.
- Base Units: This is the hub of most in-home systems, connecting to either a landline system, wi-fi or cellular network. Features vary, with some offering backup batteries or voice-activated help features. Costs also vary, sometimes being bundled with the monthly cost, but not always.
- Speakerphone Units: A device that allows for hands-free, two-way communication with a emergency response call center. Prices range between $75 to $250+, depending on range and the number of units.
- Wall Buttons: Fixed buttons you can place in high-risk areas like bathrooms or stairways. Prices are usually between $25 to $35.
- Home-Only Wearables: Some wearable devices can pair with the in-home base, allowing you to call for help when within range. Costs typically range between $25 to $50.
Mobile Devices
If you’re an active older adult who regularly leaves the house, mobile systems offer the same protection anywhere.
- Pendants and Wristbands: Lightweight and easy to wear, these options usually include a help button connected to a cellular or GPS service. Prices usually range from $25 to $50.
- Keychain Alerts: Even more small and compact, keychains can also integrate emergency buttons. The typical cost ranges from $30 to $60.
- Smartwatches: High-tech, but expensive options that are more likely to include advanced fall detection, GPS location, step tracking, and emergency call features. Expect to pay $150 to $300.
- Cellphones with Monitoring: Specialized phones or apps for your existing phone can include medical alert functions and subscriptions. Phones cost between $50 to $300, while the service plan or app may range from $15 to $50 a month.
Common Medical Alert Features and Add-ons
The cost of your monthly or annual plan also depends on the features you choose. From fall detection to location tracking, here are some of the most common add-ons and what you might expect to pay:
- Automatic Fall Detection: Calls for help when you fall and are unable to do so yourself. May add $5 to $10 extra to the monthly cost.
- GPS Location Tracking: Can help you and others get help if you become lost. May add $10+ extra to the monthly cost.
- Wellness Checks: Some services can send a staff member to regularly check on you. This can add $5 to $20 extra per month to the total cost.
- Lockboxes: Holds a spare key so emergency services can get inside your home when needed. Installing one is typically a one-time, $20–$40 fee.
- Heart Rate Tracking: If you have a heart condition, this feature is great for checking your heart rate throughout the day. This feature is included with many smartwatches.
- Motion and Step Tracking: Also common in smartwatches, this feature tracks your movement and daily steps.
- Medication Reminders: Sends alerts when it’s time to take your medication. This service may be included or cost a few extra dollars per month.
- Water-proofing: Water resistance is an important feature, whether you’re in the shower or on the beach. While there is no additional monthly cost, these devices are generally more expensive.
- Device Insurance: Whether you have battery life issues or base station malfunctions, some companies offer protection plans that cover lost, broken, or stolen devices. These are different from warranties, as they will likely add more to your bill.
Medical Alert System Repair, Replacement, and Cancellation Costs
The upfront cost of a medical alert system is one thing, but you should also account for any future repairs, replacements, or cancellations. After all, it’s easier to make use of your device when it’s in tip-top shape. It’s also easier to avoid hidden fees when you know what to expect.
Repairs and Replacements
Many in-home and mobile medical alert systems will need repairs as time goes on. Most companies will offer replacement and repair services, but whether this is covered depends on your contract. For instance, battery replacement can be free, but there is no guarantee. Seek out companies that offer reliable warranties and device insurance, so issues cost less when they occur.
Cancellation Fees
Whether you, caregivers, or family members have decided to cancel services, you may have to pay a cancellation fee. This is only the case when you sign a monitoring contract, but if you end it early, you may be liable for up to $200 in fees. Cancelling with leased equipment has the highest risks and associated expenses. Be sure to return all equipment in good condition to avoid further penalty.
Are Medical Alert Systems Covered By Insurance?
Medical alert systems are not usually covered by insurance. Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, long-term care insurance policies, and some Medicaid programs offer different levels of coverage and discounts, but it’s essential to do your research beforehand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Medical alert systems are simple devices used to help you or your loved ones maintain peace of mind throughout the aging process. Most are wearable devices, but home medical alert systems can also help. It works by being connected to a monitoring center that can immediately react to your distress call. The result: whether you’ve faced a dangerous fall or medical emergency, help is immediately on the way.
Medical alert device costs average at $37 per month, but vary by type, features, and add-ons.
Medical Guardian systems are slightly more expensive than typical medical alert systems, costing between $32 and $47 a month. This is because Medical Guardian offer more features, better service, and flexible contract options.
Choosing the best medical alert system for your specific needs is about weighing what you need most. For example, an all-in-one mobile device may be ideal for seniors who regularly leave the house, while in-home options are great for homebodies. Review different companies, features, and prices to determine what will work best for you.
Yes, medical alert devices are designed to send real-time emergency alerts directly to the response center. That way, help can arrive even faster than first responders.
Trusted medical alert device brands have durable equipment, fast response times, and a well-reviewed history of service. This includes brands like Medical Guardian, Personal Living Alert, Lively, ADT, Medical Care Alert, and Lifeline.
Yes, there are medical alert systems with no monthly fee, but they aren’t necessarily the same as the ones that do. For example, devices with a one-time equipment fee often lack dedicated monitoring centers for dispatch assistance. Instead, relying on you to directly dial emergency numbers or use pre-programmed emergency contacts.
Yes, many medical alert systems have fall-detection as a built-in service or offer it as an add-on. This means that even when dangerous slips prevent you from pressing the help button, the system can detect that you’ve fallen and make a call for you.
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