Security guards play a critical role in protecting businesses, properties, and events across Florida. Whether you are considering a career in security or seeking professional security services, understanding industry wages and career growth is essential.
This guide breaks down security guard salaries in Florida, factors influencing earnings, and career opportunities—helping both job seekers and those in need of top-tier security solutions.
How Much Do Security Guards Make in Florida?
Security guard salaries vary based on experience, job responsibilities, and location. Here is a breakdown of the average pay across different security roles:
- Entry-Level Security Guards | $12 – $15 per hour
- Experienced Security Guards | $15 – $18 per hour
- Armed Security Guards | $18 – $25 per hour
- Security Supervisors & Managers | $20 – $30 per hour
- Event Security & VIP Protection | $25+ per hour
These rates are industry estimates and may vary based on employer, security contract specifics, and job location.
What Affects Security Guard Salaries?
1. Type of Security Guard Role
Security firms in Florida offer a variety of positions, including:
Unarmed Security – Lower entry requirements, moderate pay
Armed Security – Higher earnings due to licensing requirements
Event Security & VIP Protection – Premium pay for high-profile events and executive clients
2. Experience & Specialized Training
The more training and experience you have, the higher your earnings. Security professionals with CPR certification, de-escalation training, or military/law enforcement backgrounds can command better salaries.
3. Location Matters
Security guards in Orlando, Miami, and Tampa earn higher wages due to increased security demands for hotels, theme parks, corporate buildings, and gated communities.
4. Shift & Working Conditions
Security guards working overnights, holidays, or high-risk assignments (e.g., bank security, nightclub security) often earn higher wages.
5. Employment Type
Full-time guards may receive benefits like health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, while contract or part-time guards might have higher hourly rates but fewer benefits.
Career Growth in the Security Industry
A career in security offers rapid growth potential. With experience and training, security professionals can advance into higher-paying roles, such as:
- Security Supervisor/Manager – Lead security teams and oversee operations
- Armed Security Specialist – Requires licensing but offers higher pay
- Executive Protection – VIP security for high-profile clients
- Security Consultant – Advise businesses on security strategies
- Law Enforcement & Federal Security Roles – Many security professionals transition into law enforcement careers
Investing in additional certifications (e.g., Class D & G licenses in Florida, firearms training, crisis management) can fast-track career growth.
Why Businesses Need Professional Security Services
Hiring professional security guards is essential for protecting your business, employees, and customers. Whether you need:
- Corporate Security – Safeguard offices and prevent unauthorized access
- Residential Security – Protection for gated communities & apartment complexes
- Retail Security – Loss prevention and crowd management
- Event Security – Trained guards for concerts, conferences & VIP events
A licensed, trained security team ensures peace of mind and business continuity.
Shergroup USA: Your Trusted Security Partner
At Shergroup USA, we provide top-tier security guard services across Florida, offering:
- Licensed & Experienced Security Guards
- Armed & Unarmed Security Solutions
- 24/7 Surveillance & Rapid Response Teams
- Tailored Security Plans for Businesses & Residential Communities
Looking to hire professional security services?
Contact us today for a customized security plan | Shergroup USA Contact Page
Considering a career in security?
Join our team of security professionals! We offer competitive salaries, training, and career advancement opportunities. Let us build a safer community—together!