If you’re considering smart home upgrades in Tampa, chances are you’re asking the same question we hear every day:
“How much does a smart home actually cost?”
Whether you’re building new or retrofitting an existing space, the price depends on what you want your home to do. Are you looking for a single-room audio system, whole-home automation, or a few smart shades to help with the Florida heat?
In this updated 2025 guide, we break down real-world smart home pricing in Tampa—so you can plan your project with clarity and confidence.
What Factors Affect Smart Home Cost?
Before we get to numbers, know that pricing varies based on:
- Home size and layout
- New build vs. retrofit
- Type and quality of equipment (luxury vs. value brands)
- Number of zones (rooms, AV areas, outdoor spaces)
- Level of integration (standalone devices vs. full automation)
Now, let’s break it down by service category.
Motorized Shades
| Type | Average Cost (Installed) | Common Use Cases |
| Battery Roller Shades | $1,200 – $1,800 per window | Bedrooms, media rooms, kitchens |
| Hardwired Shades | $1,500 – $2,500 per window | Whole-home integrations, new builds |
| Dual Shades (Day/Night) | $2,000 – $3,000+ per window | Luxury applications, home theaters |
Most homeowners install motorized shades in 3–5 key rooms, totaling $6,000–$10,000+ depending on window count.
Smart Lighting
| System Type | Average Cost | Highlights |
| Basic Smart Switches | $250 – $500 per zone | Single rooms, retrofits |
| Whole-Home Lighting Scenes | $5,000 – $15,000+ | Prewire, multi-room control |
| Luxury Keypads (e.g., Lutron) | $8,000 – $25,000+ | High-end finishes, design-driven homes |
Most Tampa clients start with scene-based lighting in 3–4 zones, then expand to the whole home.
Audio/Video (AV)
| AV Service | Cost Range | Example Projects |
| Single-Room Audio | $2,000 – $5,000 | Kitchen, living room |
| Multi-Room Audio | $8,000 – $20,000+ | Whole-home Sonos or similar systems |
| Home Theater (5.1 – Atmos) | $10,000 – $35,000+ | Custom media room or hybrid lounge setup |
Media rooms and multi-room audio are two of the fastest-growing upgrades in Westchase and Carrollwood homes.
Security & Surveillance
| Security Upgrade | Average Cost | Use Cases |
| Video Doorbell + App | $600 – $900 | Entry points |
| 4-Camera PoE System | $2,500 – $5,500 | Full home perimeter |
| Full Smart Security System | $6,000 – $12,000+ | Includes door sensors, motion, alerts |
Smart locks, outdoor lighting, and app-based monitoring are popular add-ons.
Whole-Home Automation Packages
| Package Type | Price Range (Installed) | Features Included |
| Entry-Level Automation | $12,000 – $25,000 | Lighting + climate + basic control |
| Mid-Tier Integrated System | $25,000 – $60,000 | Lighting, AV, security, motorized shades |
| Luxury Full Control (Control4, etc.) | $60,000 – $150,000+ | Custom design, rack systems, whole-home control |
“Most Hive clients start between $15K–$40K for a whole-home base system, then add audio or shades over time.”
What Most Tampa Homeowners Choose
| Home Size | Average Investment | Common Features |
| Under 2,500 sq ft | $15,000 – $35,000 | Lighting scenes, 2–3 shade zones, app control |
| 2,500–4,000 sq ft | $35,000 – $75,000 | Multi-room audio, AV, security, climate |
| 4,000+ sq ft | $75,000 – $150,000+ | Whole-home integration, rack, theater, outdoor |
Note: These are real numbers based on projects Hive installed in 2024–2025 across Davis Islands, Hyde Park, Westchase, and South Tampa.
Tips to Stay on Budget
- Start with your priorities: Focus on comfort, security, or entertainment first.
- Phase your system: We design scalable installs so you can build over time.
- Plan early (especially for new builds): Prewiring saves thousands later.
- Choose hybrid control: Combine app + keypad for flexibility and cost control.
Ready to Build Your Smart Home in Tampa?
Whether you’re exploring options or ready to get a quote, Hive is here to help. We design smart systems that fit your lifestyle, home size, and budget—with performance that lasts.
Start My Project or Scheduled a Consultation.
FAQs
Q1: Can I start small and add more smart features later?
A: Absolutely. Most clients begin with a few core services (lighting, climate, security) and expand over time.
Q2: Does Hive work with builders on new homes?
A: Yes. We partner with builders across Tampa for structured prewire, system planning, and automation-ready installs.
Q3: Do you offer financing or phased payment options?
A: We do! Our team can structure projects in phases and discuss financing where applicable.
Q4: Will this work in older homes or retrofits?
A: Yes. We offer wireless and low-impact installs for historic or finished homes—Hyde Park is one of our top retrofit zones.
Q5: What’s the ROI of a smart home system?
A: Besides convenience, many homeowners see improved energy efficiency, security peace of mind, and resale value.
Hive Smart Home
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