Security Guard in Fargo, ND

The Salary Picture: Where Fargo Stands

When you're considering a move to Fargo, the numbers tell a clear story. The median salary for a Security Guard in the Fargo-Moorhead metro area is $34,990/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.82/hour. This puts you slightly below the national median of $36,140/year, but the cost of living here is your secret weapon. With a cost of living index of 89.4 (where the U.S. average is 100), your paycheck stretches further. The job market isn't flooded with openings—there are roughly 264 security jobs in the metro—but it's also not stagnant. The 10-year job growth is projected at 3%, which is modest but stable, reflecting the steady demand for security in hospitals, schools, and commercial properties.

Here’s how experience level typically breaks down in the local market. This isn't a rigid state-mandated scale, but a realistic progression based on local postings and conversations with hiring managers.

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Hourly Rate	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$14.00 - $17.00	Foot patrol, access control, basic reporting. Often starts in retail or event security.
Mid-Level	2-5 years	$17.00 - $20.00	Armed duties, patrol vehicle operation (where applicable), training new guards.
Senior/Lead	5-10 years	$20.00 - $24.00	Shift supervisor, client liaison, specialized site management (e.g., healthcare facility).
Expert/Specialist	10+ years	$24.00+	Management roles, corporate security director, high-risk facility security lead.

Local Insight: The jump from entry to mid-level often requires obtaining your armed guard license, which adds $500-$800 in training costs but immediately increases your market value. Many local employers, like the major hospital systems, prefer to promote from within, so starting as an unarmed guard and getting certified through the company is a common path.

When compared to other North Dakota cities, Fargo is the clear leader in both opportunity and pay. Bismarck and Grand Forks have smaller markets with slightly lower median wages, while the oil patch in western ND (Williston) offers higher pay but at a much higher cost of living and with a volatile job market. Fargo provides the most balanced environment for long-term stability.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about your monthly budget. With a median salary of $34,990/year, your take-home pay after federal taxes (assuming you're single, using the standard deduction) is approximately $29,500/year, or about $2,458/month.

Fargo's average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $781/month. This is a critical advantage. Your rent would consume roughly 32% of your monthly take-home pay, leaving you with $1,677 for everything else.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a Security Guard earning the median:

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	% of Take-Home Pay
Rent (1BR)	$781	31.8%
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	$180	7.3%
Groceries	$350	14.2%
Car Payment (Used Car)	$300	12.2%
Car Insurance	$120	4.9%
Gas	$150	6.1%
Health Insurance (if not employer-paid)	$200	8.1%
Total Essentials	$2,081	84.7%
Remaining (Discretionary)	$377	15.3%

Can you afford to buy a home? It's a stretch on this salary alone. The median home price in the Fargo metro is around $280,000. With a $34,990 income, a lender is unlikely to approve you for a mortgage of that size without a significant down payment or a dual-income household. However, it's not impossible with strategic planning. Saving $15,000 for a down payment on a starter home (a condo or a smaller house in a neighborhood like Northside or West Fargo) would be a multi-year goal. The key is that your fixed costs (rent, utilities) are low, leaving room for aggressive saving if you're disciplined.

Insider Tip: Many security companies in Fargo offer shift differentials (an extra $1.00 - $2.00/hour for overnight or weekend shifts). Taking a permanent night shift at a hospital or manufacturing plant can boost your annual income by $2,000 - $4,000, making homeownership a more realistic short-term goal.

Where the Jobs Are: Fargo's Major Employers

Fargo's security job market is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, education, retail, and corporate headquarters. Here are the major local employers you should target:

1. Sanford Health & Essentia Health: These are the two giant hospital systems. They employ a large number of security officers for 24/7 coverage. Jobs are steady, benefits are typically good, and they often provide tuition assistance for further training. Hiring tends to be continuous due to expansion and turnover.
2. North Dakota State University (NDSU) & Concordia College: Campus security is a major niche. The job involves a mix of event security (football games at the Fargodome), dorm patrol, and parking enforcement. NDSU has over 14,000 students, creating a consistent need.
3. The Fargodome & Scheels Arena: Event security is a major source of part-time and seasonal work. It's not a full-time career for most, but it's an excellent way to get experience, network, and earn extra cash. Major concerts and NDSU Bison games are the big draws.
4. Retail Giants (Target, Walmart, Hornbacher's): Fargo is a major retail hub for the region. Loss prevention (LP) officers are in demand. These roles often start at a higher hourly rate than standard guard posts and offer a clear career path into management.
5. Corporate Campuses (Microsoft, Bushel, Bobcat Company): While not as large as the tech hubs on the coasts, Fargo has a growing tech and corporate scene. Microsoft's local campus and the headquarters of ag-tech firm Bushel require security personnel for access control and facility management. These are often the highest-paying, most professional roles.
6. Cass County Sheriff's Office & Fargo Police Department: Not for guards, but for context. They partner with private security for major events and often hire from the security pool for their own auxiliary or reserve positions. Networking here can lead to unique opportunities.

Hiring Trends: There's a growing trend toward certified security programs. Employers like Sanford and Microsoft are increasingly looking for guards who have completed the ND Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Basic Security Course, even if they're not becoming peace officers. This 40-hour course (cost: ~$500) gives you a significant edge.

Getting Licensed in ND

North Dakota has straightforward but mandatory licensing requirements for security guards. You cannot work legally without it.

Requirement 1: The North Dakota Private Investigator & Security Guard License
You must be licensed by the North Dakota Private Investigator & Security Guard Board. The process:

• Application: Submit a form with fee ($100).
• Background Check: Fingerprints and a criminal history check ($40-$60).
• Training: You must complete a 4-hour pre-assignment training course from an approved provider. This covers state law, ethics, and use of force.
• Cost & Timeline: Total cost for licensing is roughly $200. The process can take 2-4 weeks from application to receiving your license.

Requirement 2: Armed Security Certification
If you want to carry a firearm, the requirements are stricter:

• Training: You must complete a 16-hour armed guard training course from an approved provider. This includes firearms qualification.
• Firearm Permit: You need a North Dakota Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Permit, which requires its own application and background check.
• Cost & Timeline: The armed course typically costs $300-$500. Combined with the CCW permit ($50), you're looking at $400-$600. This adds another 1-2 weeks to your timeline.

Insider Tip: Don't pay for training upfront. The best strategy is to get hired by a large employer like Sanford or a national firm like Securitas. They will often pay for your initial training and certification as part of your onboarding. This saves you hundreds of dollars and ensures you're trained to their standards.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Your neighborhood choice impacts your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Fargo is compact, so commutes are rarely an issue (most are under 20 minutes). Here are the best areas for security professionals:

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Estimated 1BR Rent	Best For
Downtown Fargo / Historic District	Urban, walkable, close to bars/restaurants. Easy commute to city-center offices and the Fargodome.	$850 - $1,100	Young professionals who want nightlife and a short walk to work.
West Fargo (West of I-29)	Suburban, family-friendly, newer buildings. Easy access to Target, Scheels, and corporate campuses.	$800 - $950	Those working in retail security or at corporate sites on the west side.
Northside / Near NDSU	College-town feel, older homes. Very close to the university campus and stadiums.	$700 - $850	Anyone working campus security or needing a very low rent.
South Fargo / 13th Ave South	Commercial strip, lots of restaurants and shops. Central location, easy access to hospitals.	$750 - $900	Individuals working at Sanford/Essentia or in retail loss prevention.
Moorhead, MN (Across the River)	A separate city but part of the metro. Slightly lower taxes (MN vs. ND), smaller-town feel.	$700 - $850	Those looking to maximize their budget and an easy commute (5-10 mins to downtown Fargo).

Local Insight: The Northside neighborhood is the best-kept secret for budget-conscious guards. It's directly adjacent to NDSU, so you can bike or even walk to a campus security job. The rents are the lowest in the city, and the area is a mix of student housing and long-time residents. It's not glamorous, but it's practical.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The security field in Fargo offers clear advancement paths for those who are proactive. The 3% 10-year growth rate means you won't see explosive expansion, but there will always be a need for experienced, reliable personnel.

Specialty Premiums:

• Armed Guard: Adds $2.00 - $4.00/hour to your base rate.
• Fire Inspector/EMT Certified: Can add $1.00 - $2.50/hour, especially in industrial settings.
• Corporate/Executive Protection: The highest-paying niche, but requires experience and networking. Rates can exceed $30/hour.

Advancement Paths:

1. Guard to Supervisor: Most common path. You'll need strong report-writing skills and reliability. Leads to a $40,000 - $55,000 salary.
2. Field Guard to Account Manager: Moving into the business side of a security firm, managing client contracts. Requires people skills.
3. Public to Private Transfer: Many use security as a stepping stone. A few years of experience, a clean record, and an associate's degree in criminal justice can make you a candidate for the Fargo Police Department or Cass County Sheriff, where the starting salary is significantly higher ($55,000+ with full benefits).

10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain steady for traditional guard roles. The growth area is in electronic security integration—guarding who also understand access control systems, CCTV monitoring, and alarm response. Getting certified in these technologies (through courses like TMA's Certified Alarm Technician) will future-proof your career.

The Verdict: Is Fargo Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $34,990 salary feels more like $45,000 in a coastal city.	Low Median Wage: You will not get rich as a security guard here.
Stable Job Market: Essential services (hospitals, schools) provide steady employment.	Cold Winters: The job often requires outdoor patrol in sub-zero temps.
Clear Career Ladders: Pathways to supervisor, corporate security, or public safety.	Limited "Prestige" Roles: Few high-profile executive protection or federal contract jobs.
Friendly, Safe City: Fargo is consistently ranked as one of America's safest cities.	Small-Town Social Scene: If you crave major metropolitan culture, you'll be bored.
Easy Commute & Parking: No traffic congestion and ample parking at work sites.	3% Growth: The market isn't expanding rapidly; you'll need to be proactive.

Final Recommendation:
Fargo is an excellent choice for security guards who are in the building phase of their careers. If you're looking for a place where you can live comfortably on an entry-to-mid-level salary, gain solid experience at major employers, and potentially save for a home, Fargo is hard to beat. It's particularly well-suited for individuals with a practical mindset who value stability and a low-stress environment over high-octane city life.

If you're already an expert-level guard seeking the highest possible pay or a specific federal/security niche, you might find better opportunities in larger metros. But for the vast majority of security professionals, Fargo offers a balanced, sustainable, and rewarding career foundation.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to work as a security guard in Fargo?
A: Highly recommended. While downtown jobs are walkable, most security positions (hospitals, retail, industrial parks) are spread out across the metro. Public transit exists but is not reliable for shift work, especially early mornings or late nights.

2. How competitive is the job market? Can I find a job quickly?
A: It's moderately competitive. With 264 jobs in a metro of 132,400, you're not competing with hundreds of applicants for a single posting. If you have your license (or are willing to get it quickly) and a clean background, you can reasonably expect to find a job within 1-2 months. Applying to multiple employers at once (Sanford, Essentia, national firms) is the best strategy.

3. Is it worth getting armed?
A: It depends on your career goals. If you want to maximize income in a guard role, yes—armed positions pay significantly more. If you're hoping to use it as a stepping stone to law enforcement, it's less relevant (Peace Officer training is separate). The financial investment ($400-$600) is worth it if you plan to stay in private security for more than two years.

4. What's the winter weather like for outdoor security?
A: Harsh. From December to March, you will work in sub-zero temperatures with wind chills that can make it feel like -30°F or colder. Employers provide winter gear, but you need personal base layers and a good sense of self-care to avoid frostbite. Indoor posts (hospital lobbies, office buildings) are highly sought after for this reason.

5. Can I live in Moorhead (MN) and work in Fargo?
A: Absolutely. It's very common. The cities are connected by three bridges, and the commute is typically under 10 minutes. The key difference is taxes: Minnesota has a state income tax and a higher sales tax, while North Dakota does not. Many people choose to live in Fargo for the tax advantage, but Moorhead can offer slightly lower housing costs. It's a common trade-off.

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Sources: Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job postings. Cost of living data from BestPlaces.net. Licensing information from the North Dakota Private Investigator & Security Guard Board. All prices and figures are estimates as of 2024 and subject to change.