Job Market for Security Guards in the United States

The job market for security guards in the United States is characterized by a significant number of current positions but a projected decline in opportunities over the next decade. Here are some key insights:

Current Employment Statistics

• Total Security Guards: Approximately 1,155,900 security guards are currently employed across the country.
• Job Growth Rate: The security guard job market is expected to shrink by -1.3% from 2022 to 2032. This decline is largely due to various factors, including automation and shifts in security needs.

Employability Rating

• CareerExplorer Rating: Security guards receive a C employability rating, indicating that the career will provide moderate employment opportunities.
• Projected Job Losses: Over the next 10 years, the U.S. is expected to lose about 7,500 security guard positions, primarily due to the retirement of approximately 7,400 existing guards.

Geographic Distribution

The supply of security guards is concentrated in certain states, with the highest employment numbers in the following areas:

State	Employed Security Guards
California	151,110
New York	119,130
Texas	88,100
Florida	84,840
Illinois	45,730
Pennsylvania	42,700
New Jersey	39,160
Ohio	33,580
Virginia	30,570
Georgia	30,220
Maryland	26,230
Michigan	25,780
Puerto Rico	25,110
North Carolina	24,860
Tennessee	23,380
Arizona	22,740
Massachusetts	21,580
Nevada	21,000
Washington	19,760
Indiana	17,530
Missouri	17,140
Louisiana	16,720
Colorado	15,330
South Carolina	15,220
District of Columbia	13,900
Alabama	13,150
Minnesota	11,440
Connecticut	11,380
Wisconsin	11,220
Kentucky	11,200
Oklahoma	10,750
Mississippi	10,070
Hawaii	9,100
Oregon	8,630
New Mexico	6,640
Kansas	6,460
Arkansas	6,370
Iowa	6,010
Utah	5,890
West Virginia	4,790
Nebraska	4,490
Delaware	3,280
Rhode Island	3,040
Idaho	2,730
New Hampshire	2,660
Alaska	2,000
Maine	1,860
Montana	1,490
North Dakota	1,410
Virgin Islands, U.S.	1,150
South Dakota	1,140
Vermont	1,100
Guam	930
Wyoming	840

Conclusion

While there is a significant number of security guard positions in the U.S., the overall job market is expected to decline slightly. Prospective security guards should be aware of the employability rating and consider factors like geographic location and sector-specific demands when pursuing opportunities in this field. Additionally, focusing on obtaining certifications and enhancing skills may improve job prospects despite the overall market trend.