Hiring a security guard is an investment in safety, peace of mind, and liability protection — but a security guard cost depends on more than just an hourly rate. Whether you’re hiring for an apartment complex, a construction site, or a one-night event, pricing is influenced by multiple factors. Here’s what determines cost.
1. Armed vs. Unarmed Guards
One of the biggest cost drivers is whether your guard needs to be armed.
- Armed guards require specialized training, state licensing, and carry added liability, which usually means a higher cost.
- Unarmed guards are ideal for monitoring, access control, and lower-risk environments, and typically come at a lower rate.
Pro Tip: If you’re unsure which you need, we can help assess your site and recommend the most effective option.
2. Job Risk and Industry Type
Security for a nightclub downtown at 2 a.m. is a different job than checking badges at a corporate front desk. The higher the perceived risk, the higher the rate tends to be.
Factors that increase risk (and cost) include:
- Crowds or alcohol (events, clubs, festivals)
- Handling cash or valuables (retail, banks)
- Isolated or high-crime areas
- Escorting individuals or cargo
3. Shift Length and Scheduling
Security companies often price based on shift expectations:
- Overnight shifts or short-notice bookings may carry premium fees.
- Longer contracts or ongoing coverage can reduce the average hourly rate.
4. Location and Coverage Area
Serving Orlando and surrounding areas like Kissimmee, Lake Nona, and Winter Park, we know travel time, parking, and terrain can all affect pricing.
- A small condo complex in Winter Park might only need foot patrol.
- A sprawling construction site in Kissimmee might need mobile patrols with vehicle costs factored in.
5. Number of Guards and Services Needed
- Are you hiring one guard for a single entrance?
- Or do you need a full team with patrol responsibilities, report writing, and supervisor oversight?
Larger deployments often come with built-in efficiencies — and may qualify for reduced per-guard rates.
6. Equipment, Uniforms, and Visibility
- Visible deterrents like branded uniforms and patrol vehicles may cost more, but they send a strong message to potential threats.
- Radio communication, body cameras, or vehicle access can also impact pricing.
7. Licensing, Insurance, and Compliance
Professional security firms like Two Friends Security are fully licensed and insured.
Cheap “freelancer” guards might quote lower, but they’re often unlicensed or uninsured, putting your business at risk.
You’re not just paying for a guard — you’re paying for accountability, professionalism, and legal protection.
No Two Jobs Are the Same — That’s Why We Quote Individually
Instead of offering cookie-cutter prices, we offer tailored quotes that factor in:
- The scope of your needs
- Site-specific requirements
- Guard availability
- Your timeline and goals
We work fast, and we don’t waste your time with unclear estimates or surprise fees.
✅ Request a Custom Security Quote
Don’t guess what you need — let’s talk through it.
Call now or fill out our quick form to get a custom quote within 24 hours.
We’ll assess your site, recommend the right level of protection, and give you straightforward pricing with no pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. We handle short-term and long-term coverage. Whether you need a guard for one night or every night, we’ll quote accordingly.
Depending on the guard type and availability, some shifts may carry premium rates. We’ll break it down for you upfront.
Absolutely. Mobile patrol is a great fit for larger sites or properties with multiple access points.
