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.