How to Become a Security Guards in Florida
Security Guards in Florida earn a median salary of $36,090/year, which is 6% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,174/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in Florida
Becoming a security guards in Florida
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 95,350 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Naples-Marco Island and Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin.
Security Guards salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Naples-Marco Island | $38K | $18.35/hr | 1,090 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $37K | $17.55/hr | 710 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $36K | $17.53/hr | 41,760 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $36K | $17.31/hr | 11,930 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $36K | $17.3/hr | 2,640 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $36K | $17.28/hr | 14,150 |
| Port St. Lucie | $36K | $17.15/hr | 760 |
| Homosassa Springs | $35K | $17.06/hr | 140 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $35K | $17.03/hr | 1,200 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $35K | $16.97/hr | 1,480 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $35K | $16.93/hr | 520 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $35K | $16.88/hr | 2,400 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $35K | $16.83/hr | 1,240 |
| Punta Gorda | $35K | $16.81/hr | 170 |
| Gainesville | $35K | $16.71/hr | 740 |
Security Guards salary range in Florida
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in Florida?▼
The median security guards salary in Florida is $36,090 per year ($17.35/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $29,630 to $47,990.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in Florida?▼
Security Guards positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $36,090, a security guards in Florida would take home approximately $2,586/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Florida are Naples-Marco Island ($38,170), Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin ($36,510), Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($36,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for security guards?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means security guards keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.