Security Guard in Lakewood, CO

Of course. Here is a comprehensive career guide for Security Guards considering a move to Lakewood, Colorado.

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The Salary Picture: Where Lakewood Stands

As a local, I can tell you that Lakewood isn't a boomtown for security salaries like Denver can be. It's a practical, residential city where the cost of living is high, and wages need to be weighed carefully against your expenses. The median salary for a Security Guard in Lakewood is $36,736/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.66. It's important to note that this is slightly above the national average of $36,140/year, but this small edge is quickly eroded by Colorado's cost of living.

The job market is stable but not explosive, with approximately 311 jobs in the metro area and a projected 10-year job growth of 3%. This isn't a field seeing rapid expansion, so opportunities are competitive and experience is king.

Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect to earn based on your experience level in the Lakewood area:

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Typical Annual Salary (Lakewood)	Typical Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$30,000 - $34,000	$14.40 - $16.35
Mid-Career	2-5 years	$34,000 - $39,000	$16.35 - $18.75
Senior Guard	5-10 years	$39,000 - $45,000	$18.75 - $21.63
Expert/Supervisor	10+ years	$45,000 - $55,000+	$21.63 - $26.44+

Insider Tip: The jump from entry-level to mid-career is where you see the biggest percentage increase. Specializing in areas like armed security, loss prevention at high-value retail, or working at a data center can push you toward the higher end of the mid-career bracket.

Comparison to Other Colorado Cities:

• Denver: Salaries are often 5-10% higher ($38,000 - $40,000 median) due to a higher concentration of corporate, tech, and event security. However, the commute to Denver from Lakewood can be a significant cost in time and gas.
• Colorado Springs: Salaries are very similar to Lakewood, often slightly lower ($35,000 - $37,000 median). The job market is heavily influenced by the military and defense contractors.
• Fort Collins: A smaller market with salaries comparable to or slightly below Lakewood, but with a lower cost of living (especially rent).

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's be direct: making the median salary of $36,736 in Lakewood is a tight budget. After federal taxes, state taxes (4.4%), and FICA, your monthly take-home pay will be approximately $2,450.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Earner, Median Salary)

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Monthly Take-Home Pay	$2,450	After ~22% in taxes
Rent (1BR Average)	-$1,835	The biggest hurdle in Lakewood
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Internet)	-$150	Varies by season; summer A/C can spike bills
Groceries	-$300	Shopping at King Soopers vs. Whole Foods makes a difference
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	-$350	Assumes a modest car payment; insurance is high in CO
Health Insurance (Employer Plan)	-$150	If employer covers a portion
Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal)	-$150
Remaining / Savings	-$485	This is your buffer for emergencies, savings, or debt.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
This is the most common question, and the answer for a single person earning $36,736 is: not in Lakewood. The median home price in Lakewood hovers around $550,000. With a 20% down payment ($110,000), you'd need an annual income closer to $110,000 to comfortably afford the mortgage, taxes, and insurance.

Insider Tip: Most security guards I know in Lakewood who own homes either have a dual-income household, bought in a more affordable suburb like Arvada or Wheat Ridge years ago, or work overtime and specialty shifts to boost their income.

Where the Jobs Are: Lakewood's Major Employers

Lakewood's security job market is anchored by its role as a suburb of Denver and its own unique institutions. Here’s where to focus your applications:

1. Centura Health (St. Anthony Hospital): A massive employer on the west side of Lakewood. They need security guards for patient and staff safety, asset protection, and access control. Hiring is steady, and they often offer good benefits.
2. Jefferson County School District (Jeffco): School security is a growing field. These positions (often called Campus Security) require patience and a calm demeanor. The school year offers a predictable schedule, but summer work may be limited.
3. Belmar (Lakewood's "Downtown"): This mixed-use development has numerous retail stores, restaurants, and offices. Contract security companies like Securitas or Allied Universal often service the entire area. It's a great place for entry-level experience in a dynamic environment.
4. Colorado Mills Mall: While retail security can be volatile, the mall is a consistent source of loss prevention and general security jobs. It's a high-traffic environment that looks good on a resume.
5. Lockheed Martin (nearby in Jefferson County): While the main facility isn't in Lakewood, it's a major employer for the security industry in the entire metro area. These are often armed, high-clearance positions with excellent pay, but they require a clean record and often military or law enforcement background.
6. Federal and Municipal Buildings: The Federal Center at 6th and Kipling, and Lakewood's own City Hall and municipal buildings, require security personnel. These are often stable, government-contracted positions with competitive benefits.
7. Contract Security Firms (G4S, Securitas, Allied Universal): These companies are the backbone of the industry. They service multiple clients across Lakewood. Getting your start here is common; it allows you to try different posts (corporate, event, industrial) and find your niche.

Hiring Trends: Post-pandemic, there's a slight trend toward more specialized roles, such as security for data centers (which are plentiful in the Denver metro) and healthcare facilities. Soft skills—de-escalation, clear communication—are becoming as important as physical presence.

Getting Licensed in CO

Colorado has straightforward licensing requirements, administered by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

Requirements & Costs:

• Basic License: You must be at least 18, pass a background check, and complete a certified training course (usually 8-16 hours). The course covers Colorado statutes, use of force, and emergency procedures.
• Cost: The training course typically costs $100 - $250. The state application fee is $82.50. So, you're looking at an initial investment of about $200 - $350.
• Armed License: To carry a firearm, you need an additional 16 hours of certified firearms training and must re-qualify annually. This course can cost $300 - $600. You must be at least 21.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Week 1: Find a CBI-approved training provider and sign up. Many offer weekend classes.
2. Week 2: Complete the course and receive your certificate.
3. Week 2-3: Submit your application and fingerprints to the CBI. Background checks can take 4-8 weeks. You can start working under the direct supervision of a licensed guard while your application is pending.
4. Week 6-10: Receive your license in the mail.

Insider Tip: Many employers will pay for your training after you're hired, especially for armed positions. It's worth asking about during your interview. The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) website is your official source for all forms and approved trainers.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Choosing where to live in Lakewood depends on your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a local's take:

1. Green Mountain / Bear Creek:

   • Vibe: Quiet, residential, with stunning views of the foothills. Great for families or those who want to be close to hiking trails (Red Rocks Park, Bear Creek Lake Park).
   • Commute: Easy access to 6th Ave and 470. Commuting to Belmar or St. Anthony Hospital is a breeze.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,700 - $1,950 for a 1BR. Slightly more affordable than the city center.

2. Belmar / 4th & Union:

   • Vibe: Urban, walkable, and modern. This is Lakewood's downtown. You're surrounded by shops, restaurants, and the movie theater. You likely won't need a car for daily errands.
   • Commute: You could walk or bike to many jobs in the area. Commuting to other parts of Lakewood is easy via 6th Ave or Kipling.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,850 - $2,100 for a 1BR. Premium location.

3. Lakewood Gulch / Edgewater Border:

   • Vibe: A mix of older, established neighborhoods and new developments. It's on the northern edge, offering a quick commute to Denver and the trendy Edgewater/Highlands area.
   • Commute: Excellent access to I-25 and 6th Ave. Good if you find a job in Denver but want Lakewood's slightly lower rent.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,750 - $1,900 for a 1BR.

4. South Lakewood (Wadsworth & Mississippi):

   • Vibe: Classic suburban Lakewood. Lots of single-family homes, older apartment complexes, and big-box stores. Very practical and affordable.
   • Commute: Straight shot north on Wadsworth to Belmar or west to St. Anthony Hospital. Can be a longer commute to Denver.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,800 for a 1BR. One of the more budget-friendly areas.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With 3% job growth over 10 years, advancement is about specialization and leadership, not a rising tide lifting all boats.

Specialty Premiums (Approximate Annual Boost):

• Armed Security: +$5,000 to $10,000
• Loss Prevention (Certified): +$2,000 to $5,000
• Executive Protection: +$10,000 to $20,000+ (requires significant experience and networking)
• Fire Alarm/CPR/EMT Certification: +$1,000 to $3,000

Advancement Paths:

1. Field Officer -> Field Supervisor: You'll manage schedules, handle site issues, and train new guards. Pay increases to the $45,000 - $55,000 range.
2. Field Officer -> Operations Manager: A step into the corporate side of a contract security firm. Involves client relations, budgeting, and personnel management. Salaries can reach $60,000 - $80,000.
3. Security Guard -> Law Enforcement: Many guards use the experience as a stepping stone to local police academies (Lakewood PD, Jeffco Sheriff). This is a common and respected path.

10-Year Outlook: Automation (cameras, drones) will handle more passive monitoring, but the human element—de-escalation, customer service, and emergency response—will remain critical. Guards who are tech-savvy and have strong soft skills will have the best long-term prospects.

The Verdict: Is Lakewood Right for You?

Here’s a straight assessment of the pros and cons for a security guard in Lakewood.

Pros	Cons
Stable, Diverse Job Market: Not reliant on one industry. Healthcare, schools, retail, and government provide a baseline of opportunities.	High Cost of Living: Rent is the single biggest financial challenge. The $1,835/month average for a 1BR is steep on a $36,736 salary.
Central Location: Easy access to the entire Denver metro. You can live in Lakewood and commute to better-paying jobs in Denver or Golden.	Saturated Entry-Level Market: Lots of people start here, making entry-level jobs competitive and wages stagnant.
Quality of Life: Safe, family-friendly city with incredible access to outdoor recreation (Red Rocks, Bear Creek Lake Park).	Limited High-Paying Roles: To earn above $50,000, you almost certainly need to specialize (armed, supervisor) or commute.
Pathway to Specialization: The presence of healthcare, tech, and federal facilities allows you to gain experience in high-demand niches.	Slower Career Growth: The 3% growth rate means you must be proactive about seeking advancement; it won't happen automatically.

Final Recommendation:
Lakewood is a viable but challenging choice for a security guard, especially at the start of a career. It's best suited for:

• A dual-income household where the security salary is not the sole source of income.
• A guard with 2-5 years of experience looking to specialize in healthcare or corporate security.
• Someone willing to live with roommates or in a more affordable neighborhood to make the budget work.
• An outdoor enthusiast who prioritizes proximity to mountains and trails over a large living space.

If you're just starting out and need to maximize your earnings immediately, you might find a better financial footing in a lower-cost city. But if you're looking for a stable job in a great community and are strategic about your career path, Lakewood can be your home base.

FAQs

1. Can I survive on the median salary of $36,736 in Lakewood?
You can, but it will be tight. The key is keeping your housing costs at or below the average. This may mean having roommates, living in a studio instead of a 1BR, or choosing a less central neighborhood. Budgeting is non-negotiable.

2. Is it worth getting an armed guard license in Lakewood?
Yes, if you're committed to the field long-term. The pay bump ($5k-10k) significantly eases the financial strain. However, it requires a higher level of responsibility, risk, and initial training cost. Look for employers who will subsidize your training.

3. What's the biggest mistake new security guards make here?
Taking the first job offered without considering the company's reputation and training. A bad contract company will put you on a lonely, low-priority post with no support. Research companies like Allied, Securitas, and local firms. Talk to current employees if possible.

4. How do the winters affect the job?
Winters are generally mild with more sun than snow, but you must be prepared. If you work an outdoor post (like a parking lot or construction site), proper gear is essential. An indoor post at a hospital or corporate office is more comfortable but can be less dynamic.

5. Are there many overnight shifts?
Yes, a significant portion of security work is overnight. This is often where the jobs are, especially in corporate and industrial settings. The pay can sometimes be slightly higher for overnight shifts, which helps offset the disruption to your sleep schedule. If you're a night owl, it's a great way to start.