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Keeping your building secure shouldn’t be a guessing game.
Whether you’re looking at a $500 keypad system or a $10,000 biometric setup, access control keeps the right people in and the wrong ones out.
But what’s the real cost per door, including installation and software? A mid-range keycard system typically runs $1,500 to $3,000 per door, while cloud-based access can hit $4,000.
Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect.
Key Notes
- Access control costs range from $500 to $10,000 per door, depending on system type.
- Hardware, software, and installation fees all impact the total price.
- Biometric and cloud-based systems cost more but offer advanced security and flexibility.
- Integrating CCTV with access control enhances security but adds to overall costs.
Average Cost Per Door Breakdown
To give you a clearer idea of pricing, here’s what you can expect to pay per door for different systems:
| System Type | Cost Per Door (Hardware + Installation) |
|---|---|
| Basic Keypad System | $500 - $1,500 |
| RFID or Keycard System | $1,500 - $3,000 |
| Mobile Access & Cloud-Based System | $1,500 - $4,000 |
| Biometric (Fingerprint/Facial Recognition) | $2,500 - $10,000 |
Hidden Costs You Shouldn’t Ignore
The cost per door isn’t the only thing to budget for. Here are additional costs to keep in mind:
1. Ongoing Maintenance & Support
- Software updates & technical support ($500 – $2,500 per year)
- Keycard replacements ($5 – $50 per card)
- System troubleshooting and repairs ($100 – $500 per visit)
2. Compliance & Security Audits
- Access log monitoring ($20 – $100 per month)
- Security compliance audits ($1,000 – $5,000 annually)
3. CCTV Camera Installation & Integration
If you want extra security, you may need to pair your access control system with CCTV cameras.
- CCTV camera installation cost ($500 – $3,000 per camera setup)
- AI-based video analytics ($2,000 – $10,000 per system)
A well-installed access control system is only as good as its upkeep. Regular maintenance, security audits, and CCTV integration ensure your system stays reliable and compliant.
What Affects the Cost of an Access Control System?
Several factors influence the total cost of an access control system. From the type of system to installation fees, here’s what you need to consider before making an investment.
1. Type of Access Control System
The first question is: What level of security do you need?
- Basic Buzzer Systems ($750 – $1,500 per door)
- Simple and cost-effective.
- Used in apartment buildings and small offices.
- Keypad & Keycard Systems ($500 – $3,000 per door)
- Requires a PIN code or RFID keycard for entry.
- Ideal for commercial offices and retail spaces.
- Biometric Access Control ($2,500 – $10,000 per door)
- Uses fingerprints, facial recognition, or iris scanning.
- Best for high-security facilities and data centers.
- Mobile & Cloud-Based Access ($1,500 – $4,000 per door)
- Allows entry via smartphone apps and cloud credentials.
- Perfect for flexible workspaces and modern buildings.
2. Hardware Costs
The type of access control system determines the hardware components needed.
Some systems require basic card readers, while others need biometric scanners and advanced locking mechanisms.
- Keypads & Card Readers ($200 – $1,000 each)
- Electronic Locks ($300 – $1,500 per door)
- Control Panels & Wiring ($500 – $3,000 per setup)
- Biometric Scanners ($2,500 – $7,500 each)
3. Software & Licensing Fees
Most modern systems require management software to control user permissions and track entry logs.
- Cloud-Based Subscription ($10 – $50 per user/month)
- Remote access control & real-time monitoring.
- On-Premises Licensing ($1,000 – $5,000 upfront)
- One-time fee for local server-based systems.
- Integration with CCTV Camera Installation ($500 – $3,000 additional cost)
- Connects access control with CCTV cameras for enhanced security.
4. Installation & Labor Costs
The complexity of your system will impact installation costs.
- Basic Installation ($100 – $500 per door)
- Includes simple wiring and keypad/card reader setup.
- Advanced Installation ($1,200 – $2,500 per door)
- Required for biometric systems, multi-door setups, and security integrations.
- Network & IT Configuration ($500 – $5,000 per project)
- If your system needs to be integrated with alarms or CCTV, additional networking costs may apply.
How To Choose The Right Access Control System?
Picking the right system depends on your budget, security needs, and future expansion plans.
1. What Security Level Do You Need?
- Small offices & retail stores → Keypad or RFID keycard systems
- Corporate buildings & data centers → Biometric or cloud-based access
- Apartments & shared spaces → Mobile access & intercom-based systems
2. Will You Need to Expand Later?
- If you plan to expand, choose a cloud-based system that scales easily.
- Avoid proprietary hardware that locks you into one provider.
3. Can Your System Integrate with Other Security Measures?
- CCTV camera installation → Do you need video verification of entries?
- Alarm system integration → Do you want automatic lockdowns for security threats?
Need A Flawless Access Control System Installation?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install an access control system myself to save money?
It depends on the system. Standalone keypads and smart locks are DIY-friendly, but wired keycard or biometric systems usually require professional installation to ensure proper setup, compliance, and security.
Do access control systems require an internet connection?
Not always. Standalone and on-premises systems work without the internet, while cloud-based systems need a stable connection for remote access and real-time monitoring.
What happens if there’s a power outage?
Most systems have battery backups or fail-safe locks that either remain locked or unlock automatically, depending on the security settings. High-security setups often integrate with uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).
How many doors can an access control system support?
Small systems handle one to ten doors, while enterprise-level solutions can support hundreds or even thousands of doors across multiple locations with cloud-based management.
Are biometric access control systems more secure than keycards?
Yes, but with limitations. Biometric systems prevent keycard theft, but high-quality fingerprint and facial recognition scanners are expensive. Some models can also struggle with false negatives if skin or environmental conditions affect scans.
How long does it take to install an access control system?
A basic keypad or keycard system can be installed in a few hours, while large-scale wired systems with multiple doors, integration with CCTV, and cloud-based management may take several days to a few weeks.
Conclusion
Installing an access control system is a smart investment, but costs can vary widely depending on the system, hardware, and installation. A basic keypad may cost $500 per door, while high-security biometric systems can reach $10,000 per door.
Factoring in software, licensing, and professional installation ensures your system runs smoothly and securely.
Cutting corners on installation can lead to security risks and costly fixes. Whether you need a keycard system, mobile access, or biometric security, professional installation ensures seamless operation and long-term reliability.
Get it done right the first time. Book a free consultation today and be one step closer to a top-class access control system.