Security Guard in Broomfield, CO

The Salary Picture: Where Broomfield Stands

As a local, I’ve watched Broomfield grow from a quiet suburb into a bustling hub between Denver and Boulder. For security guards, this translates into steady demand, but let's be clear: this isn't a high-wage career here. The numbers tell the story.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local market data, the median salary for Security Guards in the Broomfield metro area is $36,736 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.66 per hour. This sits just slightly above the national average of $36,140 per year, offering a modest premium for living in Colorado's competitive Front Range economy.

Here’s how earnings typically break down by experience level in our local market. Keep in mind, these are realistic estimates based on job postings and industry conversations:

Experience Level	Typical Yearly Salary	Typical Hourly Rate	Common Roles
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$32,000 - $35,000	$15.38 - $16.83	Site patrols, access control at retail/industrial parks
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$36,736 - $42,000	$17.66 - $20.19	Corporate campus security, event security, armed guard
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$42,000 - $50,000	$20.19 - $24.04	Supervisor, lead guard, specialist (data center, healthcare)
Expert/Management	$50,000+	$24.04+	Security Manager, Director of Security, Operations Lead

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth in this field is projected at 3%, which is slower than the national average. This isn't a career for rapid, explosive growth in title alone. The real advancement here comes from specialization—getting armed certification, working in data centers (a major industry in our region), or moving into corporate security management.

When we compare Broomfield to other Colorado cities, the picture becomes clearer. While you'll earn a similar median in Denver ($36,140/year), the cost of living is higher. In Colorado Springs, the median is slightly lower at $35,290/year, but housing is more affordable. Boulder, just 15 minutes away, offers a similar median (around $37,000) but with the highest rental costs in the state. Broomfield sits in a "sweet spot" for balance, with 153 jobs in the metro area providing a stable but competitive market.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get brutally practical. A median salary of $36,736 translates to about $3,061 per month gross before taxes. After federal, state, and FICA taxes (estimated at roughly 22% for this bracket), your take-home pay is approximately $2,388 per month.

Now, factor in the local housing market. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Broomfield is $1,835 per month. This is the reality that defines your budget.

Here’s a sample monthly budget for a security guard earning the median:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Net Income	$2,388	After taxes
Rent (1BR)	$1,835	Average Broomfield rate
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$150 - $200	Varies by season
Groceries	$300 - $400	For a single person
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$250 - $350	Essential for commuting
Health Insurance	$100 - $200	Employer or Marketplace
Misc/Personal	$100 - $150	Entertainment, clothes, etc.
Remaining Buffer	$50 - $100	Extremely tight

The Verdict on Homeownership: With the Cost of Living Index at 105.5 (5.5% above the US average) and current median home prices in Broomfield exceeding $600,000, buying a home on a single security guard's salary is realistically out of reach without a significant down payment, dual income, or a major career advancement into management. Renting is the standard for this income bracket in this market.

Where the Jobs Are: Broomfield's Major Employers

Broomfield’s economy is anchored by a mix of tech, healthcare, and corporate services. Security jobs are concentrated around these employers and the commercial corridors along US-36, I-25, and the Wadsworth Parkway. Here are the local players you need to know:

1. UCHealth Broomfield Hospital: A major source of healthcare security jobs. These roles often require clearances and hospital-specific training (HIPAA, patient privacy). Hiring is steady, but competition is high due to the benefits package.

2. Spectrum (Charter Communications) Headquarters: Located in Broomfield, this corporate campus requires a significant security team for access control, patrols, and event security. These are often "in-house" roles with better benefits than contract firms.

3. Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. (HQ in Broomfield): A top-tier employer for security specialists. They have strict access control and cybersecurity-physical security overlap. These jobs are competitive and often require prior experience or a military background.

4. Intermountain Health (Formerly SCL Health): Their administrative offices and clinics in the area provide consistent contract security opportunities through firms like Securitas or G4S.

5. The Orchard Town Center: This major retail hub in Westminster (adjacent to Broomfield) employs numerous security guards for mall patrol, loss prevention, and special events. Shifts are often flexible, ideal for those starting out.

6. Data Center Row along US-36: The corridor from Broomfield to Louisville is packed with data centers (e.g., from companies like CyrusOne, Digital Realty). These facilities require 24/7 armed security, offering premium pay and specialized training.

7. Broomfield Police Department (Support Roles): While not sworn officers, BPD hires for Community Service Officers (CSOs) and security for city facilities. These roles are competitive and offer a clear path into public sector security.

Hiring Trends: I've noticed a shift toward more specialized roles. Pure "warm body" posts are declining. Employers now want guards who can handle technology (CCTV, access systems), de-escalation, and have a clean driving record for patrol duties. Contract firms still dominate, but in-house positions at the larger employers are the long-term goal.

Getting Licensed in Colorado

Colorado’s licensing is managed by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), Private Security Officer Training School. It's straightforward but has firm requirements.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Application: Complete the "Private Security Officer" application form from DORA.
2. Background Check: Undergo a fingerprint-based criminal history check. Any felony conviction or certain misdemeanors (like domestic violence) will disqualify you.
3. Training: Complete a 16-hour basic training course from a DORA-approved school. This covers Colorado law, use of force, report writing, and ethics. Cost: $150 - $300.
4. Submit: Send your application, proof of training, check, and fingerprints to DORA.
5. Receive License: Processing takes 4-8 weeks. Your license is valid for two years.

To add an "Armed" endorsement, you must complete an additional 16-hour armed training course (cost: $200-$400) and pass a live-fire qualification. You must be at least 21 for armed work. Many Broomfield employers, especially in data centers and corporate campuses, prefer or require armed certification.

Insider Tip: Start your application process before you move. You can take the training course online or in-person from a Colorado school. Having your license in hand makes you a much more attractive candidate to local employers.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Your commute and lifestyle matter. Broomfield is diverse, with neighborhoods catering to different budgets and vibes. Here are the top areas to consider, ranked by practicality for a security guard.

1. The Broomfield Neighborhoods (Central & West):

   • Vibe: Classic suburban living. Older homes, established parks, easy access to everything.
   • Commute: 10-20 minutes to most major employers (UCHealth, Spectrum, Ball). Ideal for shifts at any time of day.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,900/month for a 1BR. You can find slightly older complexes that are more affordable.
   • Best For: Those who want a quiet home base without a long commute.

2. The Adagio / Anthem Highlands (Eastern Broomfield):

   • Vibe: Newer, master-planned communities. More HOA fees, but also more amenities.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to I-25 and the data center corridor. Can be 20-25+ minutes to US-36 employers during peak traffic.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,800 - $2,100/month for a 1BR (newer builds command higher rent).
   • Best For: Those who prioritize modern amenities and don't mind a slightly longer commute to the western part of the metro.

3. Westminster (Adjacent - North of Broomfield):

   • Vibe: A mix of older and new. More affordable options than central Broomfield.
   • Commute: 10-15 minutes to Broomfield employers. Slightly longer to Boulder but excellent highway access.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,800/month for a 1BR. You can find better deals here.
   • Best For: Budget-conscious guards who want proximity but are willing to trade some curb appeal for lower rent.

4. Louisville (Adjacent - South of Broomfield):

   • Vibe: Charming, historic downtown with a strong community feel. More upscale.
   • Commute: 15-25 minutes to Broomfield employers (traffic on US-36 can be a factor). Closer to Boulder jobs.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,800 - $2,000+ for a 1BR. Louisville is pricier than Broomfield for similar quality.
   • Best For: Guards who value a walkable, vibrant downtown and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Insider Tip: Avoid the immediate area around the I-25 and US-36 interchange for housing if you work a night shift. The traffic noise from the highway and the 24-hour truck stops can be disruptive.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A security guard career in Broomfield isn't about climbing a corporate ladder; it's about building a skillset that commands higher pay. The 10-year job growth of 3% means you must be proactive.

Salary Boosters & Specialty Premiums:

• Armed Certification: Adds $2-$4/hour to your base rate. This is the single most impactful certification you can get in our region.
• Data Center Security: Specialized training in data center protocols can push your salary toward the $50,000+ range. These are often in-house or high-tier contract roles.
• Corporate Security Management: Transitioning from contract to in-house at a company like Ball or Spectrum is key. A Security Supervisor role in Broomfield can earn $55,000 - $65,000.
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): For roles in healthcare security (like at UCHealth), having an EMT-B license is a massive advantage and can lead to hybrid security/medical response roles.

Advancement Path:

1. Start (0-2 yrs): Contract guard at retail or commercial site. Get your armed license.
2. Mid-Career (2-5 yrs): Move to an in-house role at a tech company or data center. Pursue certifications (CPR, AED, advanced de-escalation).
3. Senior (5-10 yrs): Become a Lead Guard or Supervisor. Consider a degree in Criminal Justice or Security Management (many local employers reimburse for this).
4. Expert (10+ yrs): Security Manager at a Broomfield company or a Director role at a security firm managing multiple local sites.

The Verdict: 10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain stable for physical security, but growth will come from integrating with technology (e.g., monitoring systems, cybersecurity awareness). Guards who can bridge the physical/digital divide will see the best long-term prospects and wages.

The Verdict: Is Broomfield Right for You?

Broomfield offers a stable job market but a challenging financial reality for a single-income security guard. Here’s a balanced look:

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: 153 jobs in the metro area provide consistent opportunities.	High Cost of Living: Rent at $1,835/month consumes most of the median income.
Path to Specialization: Proximity to data centers and tech HQs offers career growth.	Slower Career Growth: The field's 3% growth means you must strategically upskill.
Good Work-Life Balance: Most employers are corporate, leading to predictable shifts.	Commuting is Necessary: Most jobs are in commercial parks, requiring a reliable car.
Balanced Location: Central between Denver, Boulder, and the mountains for off-days.	Homeownership is a Dream: On a single guard's salary, it's nearly impossible.

Final Recommendation:
Broomfield is a viable option if you are:

• Willing to specialize (get armed certified, target data centers).
• Planning to share housing or have a dual income.
• Looking for a stable, suburban base with access to major metro areas.

It is not ideal if you:

• Are looking for rapid career advancement without additional education/certifications.
• Want to live alone comfortably on a single entry-level salary.
• Prefer a dense, walkable city environment.

Move here if you see it as a stepping stone to a specialized, higher-paying security career in Colorado's tech corridor. If you're looking for a forever home on a guard's salary, you'll need to look further east on the Front Range.

FAQs

Q: Is it easy to find a security job in Broomfield without experience?
A: Yes, but you'll start in contract security for retail or commercial sites. The key is to get your state license first. Having your license makes you hirable immediately. Many employers offer on-the-job training, but they expect you to have the basic legal certification.

Q: Do I need my own car?
A: Absolutely. Broomfield's employers are spread out in office parks and industrial areas. Public transit is limited, especially for shift work starting at 6 AM or ending at 11 PM. A reliable vehicle is non-negotiable.

Q: Can I make more than the median salary?
A: Yes, but not at the start. The median is $36,736. To exceed it, you need to target specialized roles: armed security at data centers, corporate security in-house, or a supervisory position. These often require 2+ years of experience and additional certifications.

Q: How does the weather affect the job?
A: You will work in all seasons. Broomfield has hot summers (90s) and cold, snowy winters. Patrol duties require a good coat and waterproof boots. Indoor roles (like corporate lobbies) are climate-controlled but may still require outdoor patrols. Plan for the weather; it's a part of the job.

Q: Is Broomfield safe? Will I have a high-risk job?
A: Broomfield is a very safe community overall. Most security jobs here are low-risk (access control, patrols, loss prevention). The highest-risk roles are usually armed positions at financial institutions or data centers, which are well-trained and equipped. For the typical guard, the job is about observation and reporting, not confrontation.