Hiring security services is a major investment, and the total cost depends on the type of protection you need, coverage hours, location and the level of risk involved. On average, security guard services can cost between $20 and $100+ per hour, with standard unarmed security usually ranging from $25 to $40 per hour and armed or specialized protection services reaching higher rates.
For businesses, event organizers and property owners, understanding security pricing before hiring helps create a realistic budget and select the right level of protection. A short-term event may require security coverage for a few hours, while offices, warehouses, construction sites or commercial properties may need ongoing monthly contracts.
Based on our experience as trusted security guard company in Los Angeles, we have provided security guard costs in detail, including hourly rates, daily and monthly pricing, service-specific costs, calculation methods and the factors that affect final pricing. It will help you estimate your security budget and understand what is included when hiring professional security services.
Quick Glance at Average Security Guard Cost in 2026
The average cost of hiring a security guard depends on the type of service, required coverage and the level of protection needed. Most businesses pay based on an hourly rate, while long-term security requirements are usually calculated through daily, monthly or annual contracts.
For general security services, the average pricing usually falls within these ranges:
| Security Service Type | Average Cost |
| Unarmed Security Guard | $25 to $40 per hour |
| Armed Security Guard | $40 to $100+ per hour |
| Event Security Guard | $35 to $75 per hour |
| Private Bodyguard Service | $50 to $150+ per hour |
| 24-Hour Security Coverage | $600 to $2,400+ per day |
A business hiring one unarmed security guard for an 8-hour shift may spend around $200 to $320 per day. A company requiring continuous protection may need multiple guards across different shifts, which can increase the monthly cost significantly.
Understanding these average costs helps businesses estimate their security budget before comparing providers and selecting the right service level. The following sections break down pricing by security type, contract duration and the factors that influence the final cost.
Security Guard Cost Calculator: Estimate Your Security Budget
Before hiring security services in LA or any other place, most businesses want to understand the expected cost based on their specific requirements. A simple calculation can help estimate the budget before requesting quotes from security providers.
The basic formula is:
Number of Guards × Hours of Coverage × Number of Days × Hourly Rate = Estimated Security Cost
For example, if a business needs one security guard for an 8-hour shift for 30 days, the calculation would look like:
1 Guard × 8 Hours × 30 Days × $30 Average Hourly Rate = $7,200 Monthly Cost
The total cost changes when requirements increase. A business needing multiple guards, overnight coverage or 24-hour protection will have a higher monthly investment.
Example Security Cost Calculations
| Security Requirement | Calculation | Estimated Cost |
| One guard for a single 8-hour event | 1 × 8 × $30 | Around $240 |
| Two guards for a weekend event | 2 × 16 × $35 | Around $1,120 |
| One guard for weekday business coverage | 1 × 8 × 22 days × $30 | Around $5,280 per month |
| 24/7 security coverage | Multiple shifts required | $18,000+ per month |
Several factors can change the final estimate, including whether the guard is armed or unarmed, the location, the required experience level and whether the service is needed temporarily or through a long-term contract.
Using this calculation method gives businesses a starting point for budgeting. A professional security provider can then provide a more accurate quote after reviewing the location, risks and coverage requirements.
Also Read: How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bodyguard in Fresno 2026?
How much does Security Guard Cost by Service Type?
The cost of security services varies depending on the level of protection, responsibilities involved and the type of environment being secured. While average hourly rates provide a basic idea, each service category has different pricing patterns based on client requirements.
1. Unarmed Security Guard Cost
Most people choose an unarmed security guard in Los Angeles, as this is one of the most common options for businesses that need a visible security presence, access control, and routine monitoring.
For regular business protection, companies usually spend around $4,000 to $8,000 per month for one full-time unarmed security guard, depending on coverage hours, location and service requirements.
The final cost may increase when the service includes:
- Multiple security posts
- Additional patrol duties
- Weekend coverage
- Detailed incident reporting
- Specialized site requirements
Common applications include office buildings, retail stores, residential communities and commercial facilities.
2. Armed Security Guard Cost
LA-based armed security services are priced higher because they involve additional training, licensing, and responsibilities related to handling high-risk situations.
Businesses may spend around $8,000 to $20,000+ per month for regular armed security coverage, depending on the assignment requirements and number of guards needed.
The cost can increase for:
- High-risk locations
- Asset protection assignments
- Specialized security requirements
- Experienced armed personnel
- Additional equipment needs
Armed guards are commonly hired for financial facilities, sensitive locations, valuable assets and higher-risk environments.
3. Event Security Cost
The scale of the event, the anticipated number of attendees, and the kind of security coverage needed all affect the cost of event security.
Small private events may require a security budget of around $500 to $1,500, while larger corporate events and public gatherings can require $5,000 to $20,000+ in security services.
The total cost depends on:
- Number of guests
- Venue size
- Entry management requirements
- Crowd control needs
- VIP protection requirements
- Event duration
4. Private Bodyguard Cost
Depending on the person’s level of risk, travel schedule, and protection requirements, private bodyguard services are tailored to them.
Short-term personal protection assignments may cost around $500 to $1,500 per day, while ongoing executive protection services can reach $10,000 to $50,000+ per month depending on the level of coverage.
The cost may increase when protection requires:
- Travel support
- Multiple protection specialists
- Advance security planning
- High-risk environment assessment
5. 24-Hour Security Guard Cost
Continuous security coverage requires multiple shifts to maintain protection throughout the day and night.
Businesses requiring 24-hour security may spend around $18,000 to $75,000+ per month, depending on the number of guards, location requirements and level of protection needed.
The final cost depends on:
- Number of shifts
- Guard responsibilities
- Property size
- Patrol frequency
- Armed or unarmed requirements
24-hour security is commonly used for warehouses, construction sites, industrial facilities and commercial properties.
Other Types of Security Services and Their Estimated Cost
The following services cover security requirements that differ from the five main categories above. These estimates are based on current Los Angeles market pricing and can change depending on coverage hours, response time and site requirements.
| Security Service | Typical Service Requirement | Estimated Cost |
| Mobile Patrol Security | Vehicle-based patrols with scheduled or random property checks | $35 to $75 per hour or $25 to $60 per patrol |
| Private Security Patrol | Dedicated foot or vehicle patrols for private properties and commercial locations | $30 to $60 per patrol or $35 to $70 per hour |
| Residential Security | Patrols and access monitoring for homes, private estates and residential communities | $30 to $50 per hour |
| Fire Watch Security | Continuous monitoring when fire alarms or sprinkler systems are temporarily unavailable | $35 to $55 per hour for scheduled coverage |
| Static or On-Site Security | A guard stationed at one location for continuous access control, monitoring or patrol duties | $25 to $50 per hour |
| Temporary Security | Short-term coverage for a specific period, site requirement or temporary risk | $30 to $60 per hour |
| Emergency Security | Short-notice deployment following an incident, system failure or immediate security requirement | $50 to $150+ per hour |
Security Guard Cost by Hiring Duration
- Short-Term Security: Temporary security for events, emergencies or short projects can cost $500 to $2,000+ per assignment, depending on staffing and coverage hours.
- Weekly Security: Businesses needing security for several days may spend $1,500 to $5,000+ per week, based on the number of guards and service requirements.
- Monthly Security: Ongoing security coverage typically costs $4,000 to $20,000+ per month, depending on staffing levels and coverage schedules.
- Annual Security Contracts: Continuous protection can cost $50,000 to $250,000+ per year, with larger sites requiring additional guards and multiple shifts.
Also Read: How Much Does It Cost to Hire Private Security in San Diego in 2026?
Factors That Affect Security Guard Pricing
The cost of security services depends on more than the type of guard you hire. Security providers consider several factors before creating a final quote because every location has different protection requirements.
Understanding these factors helps businesses estimate their security budget and choose the right level of coverage from best security guard companies in Los Angeles.
Also Read : The Best 10 Security Guard Companies in Los Angeles, CA
1. Location of the Property
The location of your business or property can influence security pricing. Areas with higher labor costs, greater security risks or increased demand for security services may have higher rates.
For example, security services in major cities usually cost more than services in smaller areas due to differences in operating costs and staffing availability.
Average Hourly Cost of Hiring a Security Guard by State
| State | Unarmed Guard | Armed Guard | Event Security | Personal Bodyguard |
| California | $30 to $42 | $40 to $58 | $30 to $65 | $95 to $200 |
| New York | $28 to $38 | $38 to $55 | $30 to $50 | $85 to $175 |
| Texas | $20 to $28 | $30 to $42 | $25 to $40 | $65 to $125 |
| Florida | $20 to $28 | $30 to $42 | $25 to $40 | $65 to $125 |
| Illinois | $22 to $30 | $32 to $45 | $26 to $40 | $70 to $140 |
These are estimated hourly hiring ranges and may vary based on the city, coverage requirements, risk level and specific responsibilities.
2. Number of Guards Required
The number of guards needed directly affects the total security budget. A small retail store may only require one security professional, while warehouses, construction sites or large commercial facilities may need multiple guards across different areas.
Additional guards may be required for:
- Multiple entrances
- Large property areas
- Separate security posts
- Crowd management
- Continuous monitoring
3. Armed vs Unarmed Security Requirements
Because armed security services need more credentials, licenses, and accountability, they are typically more expensive.
Businesses choosing between armed and unarmed protection should consider:
- Level of risk at the location
- Value of assets being protected
- Type of security threat
- Required response capabilities
A standard office may only require an unarmed security presence, while a high-value facility may need armed protection.
4. Security Guard Experience and Training
The experience level of security personnel can affect pricing. Basic security assignments may require standard training, while specialized locations may need guards with additional certifications or industry experience.
Higher-cost assignments may require:
- Advanced security training
- Emergency response knowledge
- Specialized protection experience
- Industry-specific skills
Also Read : The Different Types of Security Guard Levels and Ranks
Average Security Guard Cost Based on Experience
| Experience Level | Typical Responsibilities | Common Workplaces | Estimated Hourly Cost |
| Entry-Level Security Guard | Patrols assigned areas, monitors entry points, reports incidents and handles basic duties | Retail stores, apartment communities, schools and low-risk properties | $20 to $30 |
| Intermediate Security Officer | Manages access control, monitors activity, handles routine incidents and completes security reports | Office buildings, construction sites, warehouses and clinics | $25 to $40 |
| Senior Security Officer | Oversees security operations, manages incidents, prepares reports and handles higher-responsibility assignments | Corporate offices, residential complexes, malls and commercial facilities | $35 to $50 |
| Security Supervisor or Lead | Manages guards, coordinates shifts, assigns duties and handles client or site-level security concerns | Event venues, large commercial properties, industrial sites and multi-location facilities | $40 to $60+ |
| Executive Protection Specialist | Provides close protection, conducts risk assessments and supports secure travel or personal protection requirements | Executive travel, VIP residences, public appearances and private assignments | $60 to $150+ |
5. Coverage Hours and Schedule
The timing of security coverage also affects pricing. Daytime monitoring may have different requirements compared to overnight or continuous protection.
Costs can increase for:
- Night shifts
- Weekend coverage
- Holiday security
- Emergency requirements
- 24-hour protection
Businesses requiring consistent coverage often need detailed scheduling to determine the right staffing plan.
6. Risk Level and Security Responsibilities
The level of risk involved in an assignment plays an important role in pricing. Locations requiring higher protection measures usually need more experienced personnel and additional planning.
Higher-risk assignments may involve:
- Valuable assets
- Sensitive information
- Large crowds
- Potential security threats
- Complex site conditions
A security provider will usually assess these factors before recommending the appropriate service level and pricing.
Also Read: How Much Does a Security Guard Cost in San Francisco?
Hidden Costs Included in Security Service Pricing
The final quote may include costs beyond the guard’s hourly rate, depending on the provider and service requirements.
- Background Checks and Screening: Security providers may include the cost of verifying a guard’s background, license and qualifications before assignment.
- Training and Certifications: Specialized training or site-specific requirements can increase the cost of providing qualified security personnel.
- Uniforms and Equipment: Communication devices, uniforms and other required equipment may be included in the overall service price.
- Supervision and Management: Larger assignments may include supervisory support, shift coordination and incident management costs.
- Insurance and Administration: Liability coverage, payroll management and administrative expenses can also contribute to the final security service quote.
Also Read: How Much Does Event Security Cost in California in 2026?
How Much Does Security Cost for Different Industries?
Security costs vary based on the type of property, the responsibilities assigned to guards and the hours of coverage required. The following estimates provide a starting point for budgeting, although the final quote will depend on the specific security requirements.
| Industry | Typical Security Requirement | Estimated Cost |
| Office Security | Access control, visitor management and regular premises monitoring | $3,500 to $8,000 per month |
| Retail Security | Loss prevention, customer safety and monitoring during business hours | $3,000 to $7,000 per month |
| Construction Site Security | Site patrols, equipment protection and overnight monitoring | $2,500 to $10,000+ per month |
| Warehouse Security | Access control, asset protection and shift-based monitoring | $4,000 to $6,400 per month for standard coverage |
| Residential Security | Gate monitoring, visitor management and property patrols | $4,000 to $9,000 per month |
| Healthcare Security | Visitor management, incident response and protection for sensitive areas | $10,000 to $16,000+ per month |
These costs can increase when a property needs multiple guards, extended coverage, specialized personnel or 24-hour protection. Construction and warehouse security can also vary significantly based on site size and operating hours. A current 2026 security pricing guide also highlights that service tier and assignment type can create major differences in the final cost.
Also Read: Top 10 Industries That Benefit Most from Unarmed Security Guard Services
How to Reduce Security Service Costs Without Compromising Protection
Hiring security services is a significant investment, but reducing costs does not always mean reducing the level of protection. A better approach is to review where security coverage is needed and match staffing with the actual risks at the location.
- Review Coverage Hours: Limiting guard coverage to high-risk periods can reduce unnecessary staffing costs.
- Use the Right Number of Guards: A security assessment can help determine whether every area requires a dedicated guard or whether patrol-based coverage is suitable.
- Choose the Right Service Type: Unarmed guards may be sufficient for lower-risk assignments, while armed or specialized protection should be reserved for situations that require it.
- Consider Long-Term Contracts: Ongoing agreements may provide more predictable pricing compared with repeatedly arranging short-term security services.
- Combine Guards With Security Technology: Cameras, access control systems and remote monitoring can support on-site guards and reduce the need for multiple personnel at every location.
Also Read: How to Hire the Best Security Guard in Los Angeles- 2026 Guide?
Conclusion – The Actual Cost of Security Guards in 2026
The cost of hiring a security guard can vary widely based on the type of protection, coverage requirements and level of risk involved. A basic security requirement may only need one unarmed guard during specific hours, while larger properties or high-risk assignments may require multiple guards, specialized personnel or continuous coverage.
Understanding the expected costs before hiring helps businesses compare security providers and plan a budget that matches their actual requirements. Instead of choosing a service based only on the lowest hourly rate, it is worth considering what is included in the quote, the experience of the security personnel and the level of coverage required.
Every property and security requirement is different, so the final cost should be based on a clear assessment of the location and potential risks. Contact Citiguard today or Call 800-613-5903 to discuss your security needs and get a quote based on the level of protection you require.
FAQs
How much does a security guard cost?
A security guard typically costs between $20 and $100+ per hour, depending on the service type, location and level of protection required.
How much does private security cost?
Private security costs vary based on coverage hours, staffing requirements and risk level, with standard services often starting around $25 per hour.
How much does a bodyguard cost?
Private bodyguard services can cost $50 to $150+ per hour, depending on experience, protection requirements and travel needs.
How much does armed security cost?
Armed security generally costs more than standard guard services because of additional training, licensing and higher-risk responsibilities.
How do I hire a security guard?
Start by assessing your security needs, then compare licensed providers based on experience, coverage options, pricing and service requirements.