Security Guard in Akron, OH

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Security Guards considering a move to Akron, Ohio, written from the perspective of a local career analyst.

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The Salary Picture: Where Akron Stands

If you're looking at a career in security, the numbers in Akron tell a straightforward story. The median salary for Security Guards in the Akron metro area is $35,359 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.0/hour. For context, this sits just slightly below the national average of $36,140 per year. It’s a stable, predictable market with about 377 jobs currently active in the metro region and a projected 10-year job growth of 3%. This isn't a boomtown for security work, but it’s a reliable field with steady demand from hospitals, retailers, and manufacturing plants.

Let's break it down by experience. This table estimates how pay typically scales in the Akron market based on industry standards and local data.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Akron Metro)	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$28,000 - $33,000	Static post (gates, lobbies), access control, basic patrol.
Mid-Career	$35,000 - $40,000	Mobile patrol, event security, client-facing roles, basic reporting.
Senior	$40,000 - $48,000+	Lead officer, supervisor, specialized sites (hospitals, data centers).
Expert/Specialty	$48,000 - $55,000+	Armed, K-9, executive protection, or corporate security management.

Insider Tip: The jump from entry to mid-career often depends on obtaining an Ohio Armed Guard license or a specialized certification like healthcare security (especially valuable at Summa Health or Cleveland Clinic Akron General). This can add $2-$4/hour to your starting rate.

Compared to other Ohio cities, Akron offers a middle ground. Columbus has more jobs and slightly higher pay (median ~$37,500) but a much higher cost of living, especially for housing. Cleveland's market is similar to Akron's in pay, but with a slightly larger job pool. Cincinnati may offer competitive wages, but its security market is more focused on corporate headquarters and healthcare systems. For the balance of pay and affordability, Akron is a solid contender.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the monthly budget. Using the median salary of $35,359, your take-home pay after taxes (assuming the standard single filer with one exemption, no dependents) will be roughly $2,150 per month. This is an estimate; your actual take-home can vary based on benefits, 401(k) contributions, and local tax ordinances (Akron has a small city income tax of 2.25%).

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a Security Guard living in Akron:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Pay	$2,946	Based on $35,359/year / 12 months.
Estimated Take-Home	$2,150	After federal, state, and Akron city tax.
Rent (1BR)	$816	Citywide average. May be higher in prime areas.
Utilities (Electric/Gas)	$150	Varies seasonally. Winters are cold.
Groceries	$300	Basic budget.
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Essential for Akron; public transit is limited.
Gas/Maintenance	$150	For commute and patrol.
Phone & Internet	$100	Basic plan.
Health Insurance	$200	If not covered by employer.
Miscellaneous/Leisure	$84	Discretionary spending.
Total Expenses	$2,150	Leaves a $0 buffer.

Can they afford to buy a home? On a $35,359 salary, it's a significant challenge. The median home price in Akron is approximately $130,000. A 20% down payment is $26,000, and a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $900. With the budget above, that would require cutting other expenses, and you'd likely need a second income or a much larger down payment. Renting is the far more realistic and financially stable option at this salary level.

Cost of Living Context: Akron's Cost of Living Index is 92.8 (US avg = 100), meaning it's about 7% cheaper than the national average. This helps stretch your $17.0/hour further than in many other cities.

Where the Jobs Are: Akron's Major Employers

Akron's security job market is driven by its healthcare, manufacturing, and retail sectors. Here are the key local employers to target:

1. Summa Health System: One of the largest employers in the region. They hire in-house security officers for their Akron City and Barberton campuses. Jobs here are often 24/7 and offer benefits. Hiring trends favor those with healthcare security training or de-escalation certifications.
2. Cleveland Clinic Akron General: Similar to Summa, they have a dedicated security team. The role is less about traditional patrol and more about safety, patient transport, and managing sensitive situations in a clinical setting.
3. Akron Children's Hospital: Specialized security needs for a pediatric hospital. They seek officers with patience and strong communication skills. This is a unique niche in the local market.
4. Amazon Fulfillment Centers (e.g., CAK1 in Green): While technically in Summit County, these massive facilities on the outskirts of Akron are huge employers for security. The work is often 24/7, involves gatehouse duty and internal patrols, and may start at a slightly higher wage (closer to $18-$19/hour) due to the logistics nature of the job.
5. University of Akron: A major employer. They hire security for campus safety, 24/7 coverage at dorms, athletic events, and administrative buildings. A calm demeanor and experience with student populations are valued.
6. Local Retail & Shopping Centers (e.g., Summit Mall in Fairlawn, Chapel Hill Mall): Malls and big-box stores (like Walmart, Target) contract with companies like Securitas or Allied Universal. This is a common entry point. Hiring is often steady, but turnover can be high.
7. Manufacturing & Industrial Parks: The area around the Akron-Canton Airport and along I-76 has numerous manufacturing plants (packaging, polymer, automotive parts) that contract for security. These jobs often require a clean driving record and may involve armed posts.

Hiring Trend: There's a noticeable shift towards contractors like Allied Universal and Securitas, who service many of the local employers listed above. For your first job, applying directly to these companies can be faster than waiting for a single employer to post.

Getting Licensed in Ohio

Ohio has clear, state-regulated requirements for security guards. The process is straightforward and can be completed in a few weeks.

Basic Requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident.
• Pass a criminal background check (no disqualifying felonies or certain misdemeanors).
• Complete the mandatory 8-hour "Security Guard Training" course from an approved provider. This covers laws, ethics, and basic procedures.

The Process & Timeline:

1. Find a Training Provider: Search for Ohio Peace Officer Training Academy (OPOTA) certified instructors in Akron. Local companies like Akron Security Training Academy or regional providers offer the 8-hour course. Cost: $75 - $150.
2. Complete the Course: One day is usually sufficient.
3. Apply for Your License: You must apply to the Ohio Department of Public Safety, Peace Officer Training Commission (POST). You'll need your training certificate, fingerprints, and a completed application.
4. Background Check: The state conducts the background check. This can take 2-4 weeks.
5. Receive License: Once approved, your license is valid for 3 years.

Insider Tip: If you want to work armed, you must complete an additional 20 hours of armed training (including firearms proficiency) and apply for the Armed Guard Endorsement. This significantly opens up higher-paying jobs but adds cost (~$300-$500) and time.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

When choosing where to live, balance rent, commute time, and access to job hubs. Here’s a local’s guide to Akron neighborhoods:

1. North Hill: This is a diverse, working-class neighborhood with rents often below the city average (1BR around $650-$750). It's centrally located, with easy access to I-77 and Route 8, making commutes to Summa Health, the University, or industrial parks on the north side manageable. It’s a no-nonsense area for someone on a tight budget.
2. West Akron (near the University): Closer to the University of Akron and downtown employers. Rent is higher here (1BR ~$800-$900), but you may be able to walk or bike to work if you land a campus job. The vibe is younger, with more amenities nearby. A good option if you want to minimize a car dependency.
3. Cuyahoga Falls (Suburban): Just north of Akron, it's a separate city but part of the metro. 1BR rent averages $850-$950. It's quieter, safer, and has good access to I-77 for commuting into Akron or south to the Amazon facilities. A popular choice for those seeking a more suburban feel.
4. Fairlawn (West of Akron): An affluent suburb with the Summit Mall and major retail corridors. Rent is premium here ($900-$1,100+ for a 1BR). However, it's a prime location for retail security jobs. If you can land a job at the mall or nearby, the commute is minimal.
5. Barberton (Southwest Akron): A historic, affordable town adjacent to Akron. Rents are some of the lowest in the region (1BR ~$600-$700). It's home to Summa Health's Barberton campus and several manufacturing plants. The commute to central Akron is 15-20 minutes by car. It's a practical, budget-focused choice.

Commute Note: Public transportation (METRO RTA) exists but is not comprehensive. A reliable car is almost a necessity for security work, which often requires shift changes outside of bus hours.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Stagnation is a risk in the entry-level security field, but proactive guards can build a decent career in Akron.

Specialty Premiums (How to Earn More):

• Armed Guard: The single biggest pay bump. Expect to earn $20-$25/hour at sites like armored car services or corporate offices with sensitive assets.
• Executive Protection: Requires networking and experience. Rare in Akron but can be found for local business executives or celebrities visiting events.
• Firearm Instructor Certification: If you have an armed license, becoming a certified instructor for local training companies can be a lucrative side gig.
• Supervisory/Management: Moving into a supervisor role with a national contractor like Allied Universal can push you past the $45,000 mark, especially with a few years of experience.

Advancement Paths:

1. Within a Company: Start as a guard, become a field supervisor, then an account manager, or branch manager for a security contractor.
2. Into Public Sector: Gain experience, then apply for openings with the Akron Police Department (as a civilian or later for the academy) or as a Campus Safety Officer at the University of Akron, which often has better benefits and pension plans.
3. Specialized Industries: Transition into a dedicated role at a large employer like a hospital. Hospitals often have career ladders from Officer to Manager of Security, with pay exceeding $55,000 for management roles.

10-Year Outlook: With 3% job growth, the field is stable but not explosive. The key to longevity is specialization. The guard who gets an armed license and works their way to a supervisor role at Summa Health will be in a much stronger position in 10 years than the guard who stays in static, unarmed posts. The rise of electronic security (cameras, access control) means guards who are tech-savvy will also have an edge.

The Verdict: Is Akron Right for You?

Akron offers a stable, affordable entry point into a security career, but it demands practicality and a focus on long-term advancement.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $17.0/hour goes further here than in many U.S. cities.	Low Median Salary: $35,359 is a modest income that limits home-buying potential.
Steady Job Market: Reliable demand from healthcare, retail, and manufacturing.	Limited Transit: A car is a near-necessity, adding to monthly expenses.
Clear Career Pathways: Opportunities to specialize (armed, healthcare) and advance into management.	Slower Growth: 3% 10-year growth is stable but not dynamic; competition for higher-paying roles can be tough.
Central Location: Easy access to Cleveland, Columbus, and Canton for broader opportunities.	Weather: Northeast Ohio winters are long and cold, which can affect morale for outdoor patrol jobs.

Final Recommendation: Akron is an excellent choice for a Security Guard in the early to mid-career stage who is budget-conscious and willing to specialize. It's not the place for rapid wealth accumulation, but it's a solid, affordable city to build experience and credentials. If you're motivated to get an armed license or pursue a role in healthcare security, you can build a stable, livable wage career here. If you're seeking a high-energy, high-growth city or are unwilling to invest in a car and specialized training, you may want to look toward Columbus or larger metro areas.

FAQs

1. What is the absolute minimum I need to start applying for security jobs in Akron?
You need to be 18+, pass a background check, and ideally have your 8-hour Ohio Guard Training certificate. While some employers will hire you and put you through training, having the certificate already makes you a more competitive candidate.

2. Are there industry-specific security jobs in Akron's polymer industry?
Yes, but they are niche. Large manufacturers like Goodyear or local polymer plants may have their own in-house security or contract with a firm for specialized industrial security. These often require experience and may be armed. Networking with current employees is key.

3. How competitive is the job market for 377 positions?
It's moderately competitive. Entry-level unarmed positions have more turnover, so openings are frequent. The competition increases for desirable shifts (days, Monday-Friday) and for higher-paying armed or specialized roles. Applying to multiple contractors (Allied, Securitas) and internal openings at hospitals simultaneously is the best strategy.

4. Is it worth getting my Armed Guard license in Akron?
If you want to see a significant pay increase and more job options, yes. It's the most direct path to earning above the median. However, it requires a higher investment and carries more responsibility and liability. Research the local demand and costs before committing.

5. What's the biggest challenge for new Security Guards in Akron?
Two things: the first is the pay ceiling for unarmed work. The second is the weather. Many security jobs are in posts that are not climate-controlled (gates, patrol cars, loading docks). Northeast Ohio winters are a real test of endurance. If you can handle the cold, you'll outlast many others.