Security Guard in Garland, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Garland Stands

As a local, I can tell you straight up: Garland isn't the place to chase the highest security guard salaries in Texas. It’s a solid, middle-of-the-pack market. You're not competing with Houston's industrial security or Austin's tech campus guards, but the cost of living is also more manageable than in those cities. The median salary for a Security Guard in Garland is $36,497/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.55/hour. This is just slightly above the national average of $36,140/year, meaning Garland offers a competitive wage relative to the broader U.S. market, especially when you factor in the local economy.

To understand where you fit, let's break it down by experience. These are realistic ranges you'll see posted for jobs in the Garland area and the broader DFW metro.

Experience Level	Typical Garland Salary Range	What the Job Looks Like
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $34,000	Patrol roles, basic posts (warehouses, retail centers), often with a major contract company like Securitas or G4S.
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$35,000 - $42,000	More responsibility, maybe a shift lead, or a post at a specific facility like a hospital or corporate campus.
Senior (5-10 years)	$43,000 - $52,000	Specialized roles, armed positions (with proper licensing), or supervisory positions.
Expert/Management (10+ years)	$53,000+	Site supervisor, account manager for a security firm, or a high-clearance government contract role.

How does Garland compare to other Texas cities? You’ll make more in Dallas or Fort Worth proper, where the cost of living is higher. For example, the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metro area has a larger job pool (as you'll see below) and slightly higher median wages. However, many guards live in suburbs like Garland for the lower rent and commute into the city for those higher-paying posts. The trade-off is time in traffic on I-635 or US-75. Compared to a city like Lubbock or Amarillo, Garland’s pay is significantly better, reflecting the DFW metro's economic strength. The key here is the 3% 10-year job growth for security guards in the metro. It’s not explosive, but it’s steady. With 487 jobs in the metro, there’s consistent turnover and opportunity, especially for those who get licensed and specialize.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get real about the numbers. The median salary of $36,497/year is your gross income. After federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare, a single filer can expect to take home approximately $29,200 - $30,500/year, or about $2,430 - $2,540 per month. This is a rough estimate; your actual take-home depends on your filing status, deductions, and any pre-tax benefits.

Now, let’s layer on housing. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Garland is $1,291/month. Using the lower end of our take-home estimate ($2,430/month), rent alone consumes 53% of your monthly income. This is above the recommended 30% threshold and leaves you with roughly $1,139/month for all other expenses: utilities (Dallas Energy), groceries, a car payment (a must in Garland), gas, insurance, and savings.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Rent (1BR)	$1,291	Average for Garland.
Utilities	$150	Electricity, water, trash. Internet is extra.
Groceries	$300	Shopping at Kroger, Tom Thumb, or Aldi.
Car Payment/Insurance	$400	Essential for commuting in DFW.
Gas	$150	Commuting to Dallas or Fort Worth adds up.
Phone/Internet	$100	Basic plans.
Miscellaneous	$200	Personal care, occasional dining out.
Total Expenses	$2,591
Remaining from Take-Home	-$161	Deficit based on $2,430 take-home.

Can they afford to buy a home? On a single income of $36,497/year, it's extremely challenging. Lenders typically look for a debt-to-income ratio below 43%. With the rent and expenses above, saving for a down payment is difficult. The median home price in Garland is around $300,000-$350,000. A 20% down payment is $60,000-$70,000. While some first-time homebuyer programs exist, the monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $2,000/month, which is unsustainable on this salary alone. Dual-income households or significant career advancement are necessary for home ownership in Garland on a security guard's salary.

Where the Jobs Are: Garland's Major Employers

Garland’s security job market is a mix of in-house corporate security, large contract firms, and municipal roles. The 487 jobs in the metro are spread across these sectors. Hiring trends are stable; companies like Amazon and new distribution centers along I-30 and President George Bush Turnpike are consistent sources of new postings.

1. Baylor Scott & White Medical Center - Garland: A major employer. They hire in-house security for patient safety, asset protection, and access control. These roles often come with better benefits than contract positions. Look for postings on their careers page directly.
2. City of Garland: The municipal government hires security for city facilities, including the Garland Police Department headquarters and special events. These are competitive, stable jobs with city benefits. Check the City of Garland’s official job board.
3. Amazon Fulfillment Centers: The DFW area has multiple Amazon facilities. Garland is near several, including the DFT2 facility in neighboring Mesquite. Security roles here are often through contractors like Code 4 or in-house. The pace is fast, but hiring is frequent.
4. Contract Security Firms (Securitas, G4S, Allied Universal): These giants have a massive presence in DFW. They service countless clients in Garland, from corporate offices along Campbell Road to retail centers like Firewheel Town Center. This is the most common entry point. Insider Tip: Getting hired by a contract firm is the fastest way to get your Texas security license paid for.
5. North Garland High School / Garland ISD: School districts require security for campus safety and event management. These roles are often tied to the school calendar but offer summers off.
6. Distribution Centers (Walmart, Target): Along the I-30 corridor and near the George Bush Turnpike, large distribution centers provide steady contract security work. These are often 24/7 operations, offering shift differentials.
7. Corporate Campuses: Companies like Raytheon (in nearby Richardson) or Texas Instruments (in Dallas) have large security teams. While the headquarters aren't in Garland, many guards live in Garland and commute. These roles often require higher-level clearances and training.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas does not require a state license for unarmed security guards. However, to be employed, you must complete a state-approved training course and register with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The process is straightforward.

1. Training: You must complete a 6-hour course from a DPS-certified training school. This covers legal authority, use of force, and emergency procedures. The cost ranges from $75 to $150. Many contract firms will pay for this as part of your training.
2. Application: After training, you apply for your Security Guard Registration Card. The application fee is $44. You'll need to provide fingerprints (cost ~$10-$20 at a UPS store or similar).
3. Background Check: A clean criminal record is essential. Any felony or certain misdemeanors can disqualify you.
4. Timeline: From start to finish, you can expect to be registered in 3-6 weeks, assuming no delays with the DPS. Once you have your card, you can be hired.

For Armed Security: The requirements are stricter. You need an additional 15 hours of training from a licensed instructor, a DPS-certified firearms proficiency course, and a separate application for an "Armed Security Officer" endorsement. The total cost for armed licensing can be $300-$500. This investment is worth it if you're aiming for higher-paying posts at banks, armored cars, or executive protection.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Choosing where to live in Garland depends on your commute and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide.

1. Downtown Garland: The historic heart of the city. Walkable, with local restaurants and the Granada Theater. Commutes to Dallas are easy via I-30. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,350/month for a 1BR. Good for those who want a bit of urban vibe without Dallas prices.
2. North Garland (near Highway 78): More suburban, with older homes and larger apartments. Close to George Bush Turnpike for easy access to DFW Airport and Fort Worth jobs. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,250/month. Excellent for commuters heading west or north.
3. Firewheel/Trails of North Garland: Newer developments, very family-oriented. A bit farther from major highways, so commute times can be longer. Rent Estimate: $1,300 - $1,550/month. Best for those with a family or who work in the northeast part of the metro.
4. Lake Ray Hubbard Area (East Garland): Offers beautiful lake views and access to the Lake Ray Hubbard trail system. Commuting to Dallas requires taking I-30 or I-30E. Rent Estimate: $1,250 - $1,450/month. Ideal for those who value outdoor recreation.
5. South Garland (near I-635): This area provides the quickest commute into Dallas and the medical district. It’s a mix of older apartments and single-family homes. Rent Estimate: $1,150 - $1,400/month. The best strategic choice if your job is in Dallas or Richardson.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 3% 10-year job growth indicates that advancement requires proactive effort, not just tenure. Here’s how to increase your earnings.

• Specialty Premiums: The biggest pay jumps come from specialization.
  • Armed Guard: Can add $3-$7/hour to your base rate, pushing your annual income toward $50,000+.
  • Executive Protection: Requires advanced training and networking. High-end clients in Dallas and Fort Worth pay well.
  • Fire Watch/Special Hazard: Certifications in fire watch and hazardous materials can lead to premium posts in industrial settings.
  • Clearance Jobs: Obtaining a Secret or Top Secret clearance (often for government contracts) can double your salary. Companies like Raytheon often sponsor clearances.
• Advancement Paths:
  1. Field Officer -> Shift Lead: Gain a few years of experience, show reliability, and you can supervise a small team.
  2. Shift Lead -> Site Supervisor: Manage all operations at a specific client site (e.g., a hospital or corporate campus). This requires strong organizational and communication skills.
  3. Site Supervisor -> Account Manager: Move into the business side of a security firm, managing client relationships and contracts. This is an office-based role with a higher salary ceiling.
  4. In-House Corporate Security: The ultimate goal for many. Companies like Baylor Scott & White or large manufacturers have their own security departments. They offer better benefits, pensions, and a more stable career path.

10-Year Outlook: The demand will remain steady for basic security roles. The growth will be in specialized fields. The rise of e-commerce means more distribution center security. The growth of the healthcare sector in Garland (with Baylor and other clinics) will sustain hospital security jobs. To thrive, you must specialize. The guard who stays in an unarmed, entry-level post for a decade will see minimal wage growth.

The Verdict: Is Garland Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: With 487 jobs in the metro, there's consistent demand.	Limited Top-End Pay: Median of $36,497 is modest; high earners must specialize or commute.
Affordable (Relative to DFW): Rent is more manageable than in Dallas proper.	High Cost of Living Relative to Salary: The 103.3 index means your dollar stretches less than the national average.
Strategic Location: Central to DFW, easy highway access for commuting to better-paying posts.	Car-Dependent: You need a reliable vehicle, adding significant expense.
Diverse Employer Base: From hospitals to distribution centers, you're not tied to one industry.	Growth Requires Investment: Advancement needs paid for training (armed, clearances).
Community Feel: It’s a large suburb with its own identity, not just a bedroom community.	Competition: The DFW metro has a large labor pool; you need to stand out.

Final Recommendation: Garland is an excellent starting point for a security career in Texas. It offers a realistic wage that, while not luxurious, is sustainable with careful budgeting. The access to the larger DFW job market is its greatest asset. It’s the right choice if you are willing to start in a contract role, get your Texas license, and then strategically pursue armed certification or a clearance to boost your income. For a single person aiming for advancement, Garland provides the perfect launchpad. For someone looking to buy a home on a single security guard income, it’s a tough road that requires dual income or a major career leap.

FAQs

1. Do I need my own car to be a security guard in Garland?
Yes, absolutely. Most posts are at industrial parks, corporate campuses, or distribution centers that are not served by public transit. Even if you live near your post, a car is needed for patrolling the property and for commuting to interviews and training.

2. Can I get hired with a misdemeanor on my record?
It depends on the type of misdemeanor and the employer. Companies are required to conduct background checks. A minor, non-violent misdemeanor from years ago might not disqualify you, but a recent theft or violent charge likely will. Be honest on applications and be prepared to explain the situation.

3. How much can I make as an armed security guard in Garland?
An armed guard in the Garland area can expect to start at $20-$25/hour, which translates to $41,600 - $52,000/year. With experience and in specialized roles (e.g., armored transport), you can reach $28-$35/hour ($58,000 - $72,000/year). This requires the additional armed license and training.

4. Are there any local resources for security guard jobs?
Yes. The Garland Workforce Solutions Center (part of the Texas Workforce Commission) is a great resource. They can help with resume building, job listings, and sometimes training vouchers. Also, check the job boards for the major employers listed above directly, as well as Indeed and LinkedIn.

5. What's the best way to get my first security job in Garland?
Apply to the major contract firms (Allied Universal, Securitas, G4S). They are always hiring and will often sponsor your initial training and license. Once you have 6-12 months of experience and your Texas Security Guard Registration Card, you become a much more competitive candidate for in-house positions at places like Baylor Scott & White or the City of Garland.