How Many Security Guards Are in the US? Overview of Private Security Industry

The merger between G4S and Allied Universal creates the world’s largest private security company, generating over $18 billion in revenue and employing over 750,000 guards and staff.

Security Guard Statistics

  • Estimates count over 1.1 million private US security guards versus 660,000 law enforcement officers.
  • The average guard site has two to four guards.
  • While presidents’ families receive guards, protection levels vary.

Market Trends and Industry Leaders

  • Larger security firms control over half the US market, charging hourly or flat fees with multi-year contracts as ideal.
  • ADT tops companies with $5 billion in revenue last year providing nationwide service.
  • Vivint leads in residential subscribers.

Training and Requirements

  • Becoming an armed guard requires more training but has perks.
  • Newer firms struggle to get corporate accounts and must consider affordable fees.
  • Alaska mandates most training: 48 initial hours plus 8 more for armed guards.

Job Statistics and Salary Information

  • California leads guard employment with over 151,000 guards.
  • Average guard hourly rate is $14.78, with the lowest 10% earning about $9.44 per hour and the top 10% averaging $23.26 per hour.
  • Statistics show around 28% of guards are women, with most working in healthcare, education, retail, and hospitality.

Intelligence and Security Agencies

  • The US Intelligence Community has 17 active partners with the "Big Five" gathering intelligence, led by the Pentagon’s Defense Intelligence Agency.
  • Approximately 3,200 special agents and 1,300 officers guard the White House, Treasury, and Washington embassies.

Regulations and Compliance

  • Forty-one states and Washington D.C. license security officers with varying requirements.
  • Eligibility for California security registration requires guarding persons, property, or preventing theft.

The private security industry is a vital sector with significant employment opportunities and market growth potential.

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