New Yorkers Are Using Security Cameras in a Whole New Way

Home security cameras used to be all about stopping crime. But a new survey shows that for many New Yorkers, the biggest reason for having a camera now is to avoid answering the door.. Whether it is a delivery, a salesperson, or just bad timing, a look at your phone can help you decide if you are opening the door or staying on the couch.

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Cameras Are Everywhere Now

According to the survey from American Home Shield, almost 80% of homeowners have some kind of home security camera. But only about 1 in 10 people say they live in a high crime area.

They are being used for everyday things. People are checking on pets, watching for packages, keeping an eye on the yard, and even seeing what kind of wildlife is passing through at night.

Checking the Camera Is Part of the Daily Routine

For a lot of homeowners, checking their camera is just part of the day now, like checking the weather or scrolling social media. Nearly half of people with cameras say they look at their footage every day. Sometimes it is to see who rang the bell. Other times it is just to check on things while they are at work or out running errands.

Cameras Are Replacing the Old Neighbor Watch

Another interesting shift is how people think about safety. Almost 8 in 10 homeowners say they would rather rely on their camera than on a neighbor watching their house when they are away. People feel more comfortable trusting technology to keep an eye on things instead of asking someone next door.

Privacy Is Becoming a Bigger Question

While cameras are helpful, they also raise some concerns. About 1 in 6 homeowners worry their camera could be hacked. And about 1 in 10 admit they have used their camera to watch neighbors. That starts to change how private home life feels, especially in neighborhoods where houses are close together.

What This Says About Life at Home Now

For New Yorkers, door cameras have become less about danger and more about control and convenience. They help manage daily life, screen visitors, and keep track of what is happening when no one is home.