How Much Do Medical Alert Systems Cost in 2025?

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Updated onApr. 08, 2025

Key Takeaways

  • Basic medical alert systems start at $19.95 per month, with some requiring one-time equipment fees ranging from $50–$349.99 and activation fees up to $200.
  • On-the-go systems typically cost $5–$20 more per month than at-home systems.
  • Many companies allow equipment rental for at-home systems, while on-the-go systems often require an equipment purchase.
  • Some features, such as 24/7 monitoring, are included in standard packages, while others, such as automatic fall detection, come at an additional cost.

Table of Contents

Comparing medical alert systems can be tricky because pricing structures vary. Monthly fees generally range from $20–$45, but additional fees can significantly impact the total cost.

For example, at-home systems usually cost less than mobile devices, but some companies with lower monthly fees may charge higher upfront equipment fees. To help simplify the decision-making process, this guide covers all cost factors you need to consider.

Why trust Aging in Place

We’ve spent more than 3,000 hours conducting in-depth research on medical alert systems. Here’s what we’ve done so far:

  • Put each system through our rigorous hands-on testing process in our in-house testing lab
  • Took the systems on the go, wearing them to parks, stores, and friends’ homes
  • Interviewed and consulted with licensed professional caregivers and gerontologists
  • Mystery shopped 15 medical alert system brands
  • Surveyed medical alert system users
  • Hosted focus groups with medical alert system users

    Read more in our medical alert system testing methodology.

Costs of medical alert systems

Medical alert systems come in two main categories: at-home and on-the-go devices.

System Type
At-Home
Monthly Fee Range$20–$40
On-the-Go
Monthly Fee Range$29–$50

These systems connect users to a 24/7 monitoring center, ensuring quick assistance in case of an emergency.

Factors that influence cost

Medical alert systems have multiple cost components beyond the monthly fee, including:

Installation and activation fees

  • Typically $25–$200 (one-time charge)
  • Some companies do not charge these fees, while others include them in purchase packages.

Equipment fees

  • On-the-go systems often require an equipment purchase ($50–$350).
  • At-home systems generally rent equipment, eliminating upfront costs but increasing the monthly fee.
  • Some systems require landline vs. cellular connections, affecting monthly pricing.

Add-on features and services

Many companies offer optional add-ons, including:

  • Fall detection: $5–$12 per month
  • Wall help buttons: $35–$40 (one-time) or $3–$5 per month
  • Wearable help buttons: $25–$35 (one-time) or $3 per month
  • Telehealth services: $5–$10 more per month
  • Lockbox for emergency access: $30 (one-time) or included in premium plans

Cost comparison of medical alert systems

Provider
Medical Guardian
Monthly Fee $36.95–$46.95
Extra Fees $0-$199.95 equipment fees
Fall Detection $10
Protection Plan$7
MobileHelp
Monthly Fee $24.95–$49.95
Extra Fees $0 fees
Fall Detection $11
Protection Plan$7
Bay Alarm Medical
Monthly Fee $24.95–$34.95
Extra Fees $0-$159 equipment fees
Fall Detection $10
Protection Plan$3
ADT Health
Monthly Fee $31.99–$41.99
Extra Fees $99 activation fee
Fall Detection $11
Protection Plan$0
GetSafe
Monthly Fee $29.95
Extra Fees $79–$279 equipment fees
Fall Detection $10
Protection Plan$5
Medical Alert
Monthly Fee $27.95-$39.95
Extra Fees $99.95–$159 programming or device fee
Fall Detection $10
Protection Plan$1

Affordable medical alert systems

Best low-cost options

  • MobileHelp – Budget-friendly plans starting at $24.95/month
  • Bay Alarm Medical – Affordable and flexible pricing with starting fees of $24.95/month

Best for bundled systems

  • MobileHelp Duo – Two mobile GPS devices for $49.95/month
  • Bay Alarm SOS Home + Mobile – $60.95/month (savings compared to separate purchases)

3 Ways to save on medical alert systems

1. Choose an annual payment plan

Most companies offer discounts for prepaid annual plans, and you can often save around $10 per month by selecting this option.

2. Watch for discounts and special offers

  • Holiday sales: Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Black Friday, etc.
  • Referral programs: Referring a friend or family member may earn you free months of service
  • Veteran discounts: You may be eligible for a veteran discount through VA benefits or the medical alert system brand directly
  • AARP & Costco memberships: Many membership programs offer partner discounts

3. Use insurance and benefits

  • Medicare Advantage (Part C) may cover some costs.
  • Long-term care insurance may offer coverage.
  • Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits may help with expenses.
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) & Health Savings Accounts (HSA) can be used to pay for services.

Choosing the best medical alert system for you

One key way to save on medical alert systems is to buy the right option the first time. In order to narrow down your choices and find the best device for your needs, ask yourself the following:

  • Do you need an at-home or on-the-go system?
  • Is fall detection a priority?
  • Would you prefer a smartwatch or pendant?
  • Do you need a protection plan for lost/stolen equipment?
  • Would bundled devices save money for your household?

Frequently Asked Questions

Most systems cost $20–$45 per month, with potential one-time fees.

By exploring these cost factors and available discounts, you can make an informed decision and find a medical alert system that fits both your needs and budget.