Security Guard in Kenosha, WI

The Salary Picture: Where Kenosha Stands

If you're looking at security work in Kenosha, the first thing to understand is that you're entering a market with stable demand but modest pay. The median salary for a Security Guard in Kenosha is $35,738/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.18/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $36,140/year, but the real story is in the local context. Kenosha's cost of living index is 96.3 (US avg = 100), meaning your dollar stretches a bit further here than in many parts of the country. With a metro population of 98,210, you're looking at a mid-sized city with a steady need for security across its industrial, retail, and healthcare sectors.

To give you a clearer picture of what to expect as you gain experience, here’s a breakdown of salary progression in the Kenosha area. These are realistic ranges based on local job postings and industry averages.

Experience Level	Typical Annual Salary	Key Responsibilities
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$30,000 - $33,000	Static posts, access control, basic patrols, reporting
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$34,000 - $38,000	Mobile patrols, alarm response, customer interaction, training new hires
Senior/Lead (5-10 yrs)	$39,000 - $44,000	Supervising a team, complex site management, client liaison, advanced training
Expert/Manager (10+ yrs)	$45,000+	Program management, contract negotiation, operations director roles

When you compare Kenosha to other Wisconsin cities, the picture becomes clearer. Milwaukee, a larger metro, offers a slightly higher median salary (around $37,500) but comes with a significantly higher cost of living. Madison, home to the state government and a major university, sees median salaries closer to $36,500 but with rent often exceeding $1,300 for a one-bedroom. Kenosha's location between these two cities and Chicago (a 45-minute to 1-hour drive south) creates a unique dynamic—you can access higher-paying temporary or contract work in the larger metros without having to live with those costs. The key is that the 10-year job growth for security guards in the Kenosha metro area is projected at 3%. This isn't explosive growth, but it's steady. It indicates a stable market where turnover creates openings, rather than a boom-and-bust cycle.

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the base pay. Many local employers, especially those with unionized workforces like the plants, offer shift differentials (often $1.50-$2.50/hour extra for nights and weekends) and premium pay for holidays. This can add $2,000-$4,000 to your annual income if you're willing to work non-standard hours.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get down to brass tacks. Can you actually live on a security guard's salary in Kenosha? We'll use the median salary of $35,738/year for this breakdown. After federal, state (Wisconsin's income tax ranges from 3.5% to 7.65%), and FICA taxes, your take-home pay will be approximately $2,850 per month.

The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Kenosha is $1,071/month. That leaves you with roughly $1,779 per month for all other expenses. Here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for a single person:

• Rent: $1,071
• Utilities (electric, gas, internet): $150
• Groceries: $300
• Car Payment/Insurance/Gas: $400 (Kenosha is car-dependent; public transit is limited)
• Health Insurance (if not provided): $200
• Phone: $50
• Miscellaneous (clothing, personal care, entertainment): $200
• Total: $2,371

This leaves a buffer of about $479 per month. This is manageable if you live frugally, but it doesn't account for significant debt (student loans, credit cards) or unexpected emergencies. Saving for a down payment on a home would be challenging. The median home price in Kenosha is around $250,000. A 10% down payment is $25,000. At a savings rate of $300/month, it would take nearly 7 years to save that amount, assuming no major life events.

Can they afford to buy a home? It's tight but possible for a dual-income household or with a substantial down payment. For a single person, renting is the more practical short-to-medium-term option. The key is to find an apartment in a more affordable neighborhood, which we'll cover later.

Where the Jobs Are: Kenosha's Major Employers

Kenosha's economy is a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and education. Security jobs are directly tied to this economic base. Here are the specific employers and hiring trends you should be targeting:

1. Amazon Fulfillment Center (KEN1): Located off I-94 near the lake, this is a massive employer. They hire both internal security and contract security through companies like Securitas or Allied Universal. Hiring is continuous due to high turnover. The work is often 24/7, with a focus on internal loss prevention and gate security. Insider Tip: They often have "career days" where you can apply on the spot. Watch for seasonal surges in hiring before holidays.

2. Aurora Medical Center Kenosha: A major healthcare provider. Their security department is in-house, meaning you'd be a direct employee with benefits. They seek guards with calm de-escalation skills for a hospital environment. Jobs are posted on their website and on local job boards like Indeed. Hiring tends to be steady but competitive.

3. Kenosha County Government: The courthouse, county administration building, and public works facilities require security. These are often stable, day-shift positions. Check the Kenosha County Job Board directly. These are unionized positions with excellent benefits and a clear pay scale.

4. Johnsonville Sausage (Sheboygan, but serves Kenosha): While the main plant is in Sheboygan, their distribution center in Kenosha employs security. This is a very well-regarded local company. Security roles here focus on perimeter security and asset protection. It's a great company to have on a resume.

5. University of Wisconsin-Parkside: The campus security department hires both full-time and part-time officers. The environment is dynamic, dealing with events, patrols, and student safety. It's a great role for someone interested in law enforcement pathways. Hiring peaks before the fall and spring semesters.

6. Local Retail Hubs (The Shops at Grandview Mall & I-94 Corridor): While often contracted through firms like GardaWorld, these positions provide experience in retail loss prevention and public interaction. Hiring can be seasonal, especially from October to January.

Hiring Trends: The demand is strongest for second and third-shift positions, especially in manufacturing and healthcare. The skills that will make you stand out are de-escalation training (often called "Verbal Judo"), basic first aid/CPR certification, and experience with electronic access control systems (like Lenel or Software House). Having a clean driving record is almost a non-negotiable requirement for mobile patrol roles.

Getting Licensed in WI

Wisconsin has specific, relatively straightforward licensing requirements for security guards. You cannot work as an armed guard without extensive additional training. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Complete a Training Course: You must complete an 8-hour pre-assignment training course from a state-approved provider. This covers legal aspects, patrol techniques, and report writing. The cost typically ranges from $75 to $150. This must be completed before you apply for your license.

2. Apply for Your License: Submit an application (Form DCI-3088) to the Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI). You'll need to include your training certificate, a passport-style photo, and a $60 application fee.

3. Background Check: The DCI will conduct a background check. Any felony convictions or certain misdemeanor convictions (like domestic violence) will disqualify you. The process usually takes 4-6 weeks.

4. Receive Your License: Once approved, you'll receive a photo ID card. This license is valid for 2 years. To renew, you need 8 hours of continuing education, which your employer may cover.

Timeline to Get Started: From the day you start your training, you can expect to be fully licensed and job-ready in about 2-3 months. A good strategy is to start your training while you are still looking for work, as having the license in hand makes you a more attractive candidate.

Armed Guard Note: If you're interested in armed security, Wisconsin requires an additional 48 hours of training, including firearms proficiency. The total cost for armed certification can exceed $1,000. This is a significant investment, but armed guards in Kenosha can earn $22-$28/hour or more, primarily working for armored car companies or at high-risk sites.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Your neighborhood choice in Kenosha will directly impact your commute, rent, and lifestyle. Here’s a guide:

• Downtown/Uptown Kenosha: Best for walkability and a vibrant atmosphere. You're near the lakefront, restaurants, and the Kenosha Public Museum. Commute to major employers like the hospital or courthouse is minimal. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,300 for a 1BR. Pros: No car needed for some errands, great social scene. Cons: Higher cost, older buildings.

• Somers (I-94 Corridor): This is the epicenter for manufacturing and warehouse jobs. You're minutes from Amazon, Johnsonville, and other industrial parks. It's more suburban, with strip malls and chain stores. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,150 for a 1BR. Pros: Super short commutes, convenient shopping. Cons: Car-centric, less character.

• Pleasant Prairie (South Kenosha): A quiet, family-oriented suburb. Home to the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets and close to the Lake Lakefront. Commutes to industrial areas are still reasonable (15-20 mins). Rent Estimate: $1,050 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Pros: Safe, clean, great for families. Cons: Longer commute to downtown, can feel isolated.

• Bristol (West of Kenosha): A small town feel with lower rent. It's a 15-25 minute drive to most major employers. Rent Estimate: $850 - $1,000 for a 1BR. Pros: Most affordable, quiet. Cons: Far from the lake and city amenities, requires a car for everything.

• Mount Pleasant (North Kenosha, bordering Racine): A growing area with new apartment complexes. Good access to I-94 and Highway 31. A middle-ground option between city and suburb. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,200 for a 1BR. Pros: Good value, new infrastructure. Cons: Can feel generic, traffic on 31 can be heavy.

Insider Tip: If you're looking to save money, consider a shared 2-bedroom apartment in Pleasant Prairie or Mount Pleasant. You can often split a $1,400 rent, bringing your housing cost down to $700—a huge boost to your monthly budget.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A security guard role in Kenosha doesn't have to be a dead-end job. With the right focus, you can build a rewarding career. Here’s how to advance:

Specialty Premiums: Adding certifications directly bumps your pay.

• CPR/AED/First Aid: Often adds $0.50 - $1.00/hour.
• Fire Alarm Monitoring: Essential for manufacturing sites.
• Nuclear Plant Training: The nearby power plants (if you secure a contract) offer premium pay for guards with security clearances.
• Armed Certification: As mentioned, this is the biggest jump, often moving you from $17/hour to $22+/hour.

Advancement Paths:

1. Security Supervisor: After 2-3 years of solid performance, you can move into a leadership role, managing a team of guards. This typically brings a salary of $40,000 - $48,000.
2. Security Manager: For those with 5+ years of experience and some business acumen, managing the entire security program for a company or a contract site. Salaries can reach $55,000 - $70,000.
3. Law Enforcement: Many guards use the experience as a stepping stone. Kenosha PD, Kenosha County Sheriff, and WI State Patrol all recruit from the pool of experienced, licensed security personnel. This is a common and viable path.
4. Corporate Security/Consulting: Larger corporations (like those with HQ in the Chicago area) may hire regional security managers who oversee multiple sites, including those in Kenosha.

10-Year Outlook: The 3% job growth forecast suggests that automation and technology will change the job, not eliminate it. You'll need to be tech-savvy—comfortable with body cams, digital reporting apps, and integrated security systems. The guards who thrive will be those who can blend physical presence with tech proficiency and strong interpersonal skills. The long-term stability is there for those willing to adapt.

The Verdict: Is Kenosha Right for You?

Kenosha offers a viable, if not luxurious, path for a security guard. It provides a stable job market with a cost of living that allows a single person to live comfortably, if not lavishly, on a median security guard's salary. The proximity to Chicago and Milwaukee is a double-edged sword: it creates competition but also offers opportunities for higher-paid contract work if you're willing to commute.

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: Steady demand from manufacturing, healthcare, and retail.	Modest Pay: Median salary is below national average and limits savings.
Low Cost of Living: Your paycheck goes further here than in most metro areas.	Car Dependency: You will need a reliable vehicle to access most jobs and amenities.
Diverse Employer Base: Multiple industries offer varied work environments.	Limited Nightlife/Scene: It's a quieter city; not ideal if you want a bustling urban vibe.
Path to Advancement: Clear routes to supervisor, management, or law enforcement.	Slow Growth: The 3% job growth indicates a stable, not booming, market.
Great Location: Easy access to two larger cities for day trips or job hunting.	Weather Winters: Harsh, snowy winters can make patrols and commutes challenging.

Final Recommendation: Kenosha is an excellent choice for a security guard who values stability and a reasonable cost of living over high pay. It's particularly suitable for those looking to start a career, gain experience, and potentially transition into law enforcement. It's less ideal if you have significant debt, are seeking rapid financial growth, or dislike car-dependent living. For the right person, it's a place to build a solid foundation.

FAQs

Q: What's the easiest way to get my first security job in Kenosha?
A: Get your WI security license first. Then, apply for entry-level, non-armed positions on 3rd shift at industrial sites like Amazon or manufacturing plants. These roles have high turnover and are always hiring. A clean background and a reliable car are your biggest assets.

Q: Are there union jobs for security guards in Kenosha?
A: Yes. Some positions at the county government, the courthouse, and possibly some manufacturing plants are unionized (often with the Teamsters or UAW). These jobs offer better pay, benefits, and job security but can be harder to get. Check the Kenosha County Job Board and union websites directly.

Q: How does the cost of living in Kenosha really affect my budget?
A: The cost of living index of 96.3 means you'll pay about 3-4% less than the national average for goods and services. The biggest factor is rent. By choosing an apartment in Bristol or a shared place in Pleasant Prairie, you can save $200-$400/month compared to living downtown. This savings is crucial for building an emergency fund or paying down debt on a $17.18/hour wage.

Q: Is it worth getting armed certification in Kenosha?
A: It depends on your career goals. Armed guards earn significantly more ($22-$28/hour), but the upfront cost ($1,000+) and ongoing training requirements are substantial. The jobs are fewer and more competitive. It's worth it if you're committed to a long-term career in high-end security or corrections. For most, starting unarmed and using employer tuition reimbursement for training is a smarter financial move.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for security guards in Kenosha?
A: The biggest challenge is the pay ceiling. With a 10-year growth rate of only 3%, you won't see dramatic salary jumps from market forces alone. To earn significantly more, you must proactively pursue specialty certifications (armed, CPR, etc.), move into supervisory roles, or use the job as a stepping stone