Businesses and companies who inquire about how much it costs to hire security guards always face misinformation and fake quotes. While they could not find a reliable security guard company, crime rates were going up. According to officials of LA mayor’s reports, the Citywide property crimes statistics showed a 3.5% increase in 2023. Motor vehicle thefts increased by 2% as compared to 2022.
This blog will offer a comprehensive guide to security guard service costs. We have provided average costs to hire security guards, factors affecting the cost, and different costing models. With this information, businesses can easily invest in security at an affordable cost.
How much does it cost to hire security guards?
Hiring security guards has become necessary as crime rates increase. However, businesses need to understand the cost of security guard services before employing them. There are no fixed costs as it depends on the client’s requirements and needs.
However, the average cost to hire a security guard in California is around $30 to $50. Armed security guards can cost more, ranging from $25 to $45 per hour, while unarmed guards can be found for $20 to $35 per hour.
Also, if you hire experienced security guards, the cost can go up to $100 per hour. To understand more about how the cost is calculated when you hire a security guard, here are some factors that impact it.
Factor Affecting the Cost of Hiring A security Guard
Understanding the many elements that influence the cost of hiring security guards is critical for businesses and organizations looking for efficient security solutions within their budgets.
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Type of Security Services
One of the most crucial factors affecting the cost of hiring a security guard is the different security services. Most security companies offer more than one type of security guard that matches your requirements. Here are different types of security guard services:
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Armed Guards
Armed security guards with specialized training and equipment can offer extra protection in certain situations. These guards undergo rigorous instruction in handling tools and techniques to maintain order and safety while adhering to legal guidelines. They are often found in environments with increased risk or safeguarding valuable assets, where a higher level of security is necessary.
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Unarmed Guards
These security guards can maintain a safe environment without relying on firearms. They receive extensive training in observing their surroundings, communicating effectively, and resolving conflicts peacefully. These individuals are often found in settings where a visible presence is key to deterring potential threats, such as retail establishments, office spaces, and residential communities.
Check out our comprehensive blog on when to hire armed and unarmed security guards. Get the information you need to make the right decision for your security needs.
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Uniformed Guards
Security guards often wear distinctive attire that readily identifies their role. This uniform serves as a visible deterrent to potential threats and fosters a sense of trust and authority with the public. Their presence creates a feeling of security and peace of mind for clients and visitors while maintaining a professional image.
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Mobile Patrol Guards
Mobile patrol guards regularly monitor designated areas for suspicious activity, enforce security protocols, and respond to emergencies. They efficiently cover a larger area using vehicles, bicycles, or foot patrols. Mobile patrol guards provide flexibility and adaptability in security coverage, making them ideal for properties with expansive grounds or multiple locations.
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Event Security Guards
Security guards for events are experts in providing security services for different types of events such as concerts, festivals, conferences, and sports events. They manage the crowd, enforce the policies of the event, and respond to incidents to ensure the safety and well-being of the attendees. Event security guards are well-trained to handle large crowds and minimize the potential risks associated with mass gatherings.
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Personal Security Guards
Personal security guards, also known as bodyguards or close protection officers, provide tailored security services for individuals in need of personal protection. They evaluate security risks, plan secure travel routes, and maintain a vigilant presence to prevent potential threats. Personal security guards prioritize the safety and privacy of their clients while ensuring peace of mind in various environments.
| Security Guard Type | Estimated Hourly Cost |
| Armed Security Guard | $25 – $45 |
| Unarmed Security Guard | $20 – $35 |
| Uniformed Security Guard | $22 – $38 |
| Mobile Patrol Guards | $30 – $40 |
| Event Security Guards | $20 – $35 |
| Personal Security Guards | $40 – $100+ |
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Duration and Frequency of Service
When considering the cost of security guards, there are two main factors to think about how long you need the service and how often you need it. Short-term contracts for one-time events or temporary security needs may have a different pricing structure than long-term contracts requiring ongoing security coverage.
Events may require a big effort over a few days, while long-term contracts may involve security around the clock or periodic checks. The cost of the service also depends on how often you need it, whether it’s daily, weekly, or as needed.
Security companies offer different options so you can choose the best fit for your needs. The different service durations and frequencies reflect different clients’ security needs and how much they cost.
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Location-Specific Factors
Big cities like Los Angeles have diverse neighborhoods, which makes the security guards cost a little bit tricky. Areas with a higher cost of living or higher crime rate require skilled and experienced teams of security guards, which can cost more than usual. These areas need extra precautions and security measures like surveillance systems and armed guards. Similarly, those areas where residents or businesses are regularly targeted by vandalism or theft can cost extra to hire security guards.
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Experience and Expertise
When you need an exact answer to how much it costs to hire a security guard, remember that it also depends on their experience. When hiring a security company, you may find that those with experienced professionals may charge higher rates. This is because experienced security personnel have a wealth of knowledge, skills, and a proven track record in the field.
They possess a deep understanding of security protocols, threat assessment techniques, and effective risk management strategies, allowing them to provide comprehensive security solutions that cater to each client’s specific needs.
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Additional Services
Most businesses don’t consider additional service costs when hiring a security guard. Based on their requirements, security guard companies in Los Angeles can provide more services such as surveillance, alarm monitoring, or access control.
Also, these additional services only come up during the initial consultation when client provide their requirements. Security companies need to accommodate this demand with extra guards, round-the-clock security, mobile security, and other services. These extra services can add up to additional charges while hiring a security guard.
What is the Cost Structure for Hiring a Security Guard?
It’s important to understand the cost structure for the security services. This will allow businesses to learn about the security guard cost and services they offer. Here are some of the common cost models for security guard services.
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Hourly Rates vs. Flat Fees
Determining the cost of security services often involves choosing between hourly rates and flat fees. Hourly rates offer flexibility for short-term needs, paying for specific hours worked, while flat fees provide stability for long-term contracts, offering a predetermined amount for a set period, regardless of hours worked.
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Contract Length and Flexibility
The length and flexibility of security contracts are pivotal factors in cost determination and client satisfaction. Longer-term contracts often offer discounted rates, but clients should weigh this against the need for flexibility, considering the ability to adjust service levels or terminate contracts with minimal notice.
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Scope of Services
The scope of services directly influences pricing and the efficacy of security measures. Clients should assess their needs carefully, selecting a package that aligns with specific requirements. Standard services include stationary guards, patrols, and access control, with additional features like event security or emergency response available in comprehensive packages.
Conclusion
The crime rate in the city of Los Angeles is higher than in past years. According to USA Today, in 2023, Los Angeles witnessed an 11% increase in its overall crime rate compared to 2019. Specifically, there were 60 reported crimes per 1,000 residents last year, up from 54 per 1,000 residents in 2019. With this in mind, businesses need better security, the same as residents and communities. In this blog, we have offered a clear perspective on the cost of hiring a security guard in Los Angeles, CA. To understand how an agency charges the business for security, we have provided factors that impact the cost of security guards. We have also added a security guard service cost model so that businesses can pick a model that is suitable for their needs.
If you are looking to hire a security guard in Los Angeles, Citiguard is the best choice. We are the most reliable and preferred choice of a wide range of businesses and communities for their security. With decades of experience in security services, we have a proven track record of offering a wide range of security services in Los Angeles. Call us today and get the most affordable cost to hire security guards in California.
