Career Guide for Security Guards in Memphis, TN

You’re thinking about moving to Memphis, or you’re already here and considering a career as a security guard. This guide is for you. As someone who’s watched this city’s security landscape evolve—from the post-9/11 boom to the pandemic-era surge and the current tech-integration phase—I’ll give you the straight facts, no fluff. Memphis is a logistics and healthcare hub, which means steady demand for security, but the pay and opportunities vary wildly based on where you work and your specialty. Let’s break down what this job really looks like in the 901.

The Salary Picture: Where Memphis Stands

The numbers tell a clear story: security work in Memphis is a middle-of-the-road proposition. It’s not a get-rich-quick scheme, but it’s a stable, liveable wage if you play your cards right. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and Tennessee Department of Labor & Workforce Development data, the median salary for security guards in the Memphis metro area is $35,316/year, or $16.98/hour. This is slightly below the national average of $36,140/year for the same role, a common reflection of the regional cost of living. The metro supports 1,237 jobs in this field, with a projected 10-year job growth of 3%. That growth is modest, reflecting an industry that’s more about replacing retirees and managing turnover than explosive expansion.

Here’s how pay breaks down by experience level. Note that these are realistic estimates based on local market analysis and industry surveys; they are not official BLS figures for each tier.

Experience Level	Years of Experience	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level	0-2	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.46 - $15.38
Mid-Career	2-5	$34,000 - $40,000	$16.35 - $19.23
Senior	5-10	$41,000 - $48,000	$19.71 - $23.08
Expert/Specialist	10+	$49,000 - $60,000+	$23.56 - $28.85+

How Memphis Compares to Other Tennessee Cities:

• Nashville: Higher cost of living and a booming corporate/entertainment sector push the median salary closer to $37,500/year. Competition is fierce.
• Knoxville: Similar to Memphis but with a stronger university (UT) presence, median pay hovers around $34,500/year.
• Chattanooga: A smaller market with a median around $34,000/year, but with growing logistics and manufacturing security needs.
• Statewide (TN) Median: $35,000/year. Memphis sits right at the state average.

Insider Tip: Your pay is heavily influenced by the employer type. A federal contract at FedEx Field (now Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium) will pay more than a local, non-union post at a small apartment complex. Always ask about the client and the contract terms during an interview.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the budget. The median salary of $35,316 is your gross income. In Tennessee, which has a flat income tax, and with federal taxes, your take-home pay will be closer to $28,500 - $29,500 per year, or about $2,375 - $2,450 per month after taxes. (This is an estimate based on standard deductions for a single filer; use a paycheck calculator for your exact situation.)

The average 1BR rent in Memphis is $1,146/month. The city’s Cost of Living Index is 92.4 (US avg = 100), making it about 7.6% cheaper than the national average, which helps.

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

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income	$2,400	After taxes
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,146	47.7% of net income
Utilities	$150 - $200	Electricity, water, gas, internet
Car Payment/Insurance	$350 - $500	Essential; public transit is limited
Gas	$150	Commuting in Memphis
Groceries	$300
Health Insurance	$100 - $200	If not covered by employer
Misc./Savings	$204 - $354	Car maintenance, emergencies, savings
Total Expenses	$2,400 - $2,700

Can they afford to buy a home? It’s tight but possible with discipline. The median home price in Memphis is roughly $200,000. A 20% down payment is $40,000, which would take over a decade of saving $350/month from the "Misc./Savings" line. FHA loans (3.5% down) are more common, but your monthly mortgage payment (PITI) would still be around $1,400 - $1,600/month, pushing housing costs to 60%+ of your net income. This is highly risky. Homeownership is more feasible for partners with dual incomes or for guards who advance to the Expert/Specialist tier ($49,000+/year).

Where the Jobs Are: Memphis's Major Employers

Memphis’s economy is built on logistics (the “Aerotropolis”), healthcare, and education. Security jobs follow these sectors. You’re not just looking for “security guard” postings; you’re targeting companies with large footprints.

1. FedEx Corporation: The elephant in the room. With its global hub at Memphis International Airport (MEM), FedEx employs thousands of security professionals—from corporate security to logistics facility guards. They offer better benefits and training than most. Hiring is constant due to turnover and expansion. Insider Tip: Look for "Security Specialist" or "Corporate Security" roles on their careers page, not just the basic guard positions at warehouse gates.

2. Baptist Memorial Health Care & Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare: Memphis is a medical hub. Hospitals need security 24/7 for patient safety, asset protection, and de-escalation. These are often unionized positions with stable pay and good benefits. Demand is high, especially for guards with healthcare experience or crisis intervention training.

3. The City of Memphis & Shelby County Government: They hire security guards for public buildings (courthouses, libraries, community centers), parks, and events. Jobs are posted on the official government portals. Pay is public and consistent, and they offer strong pension benefits. The process is bureaucratic but worth it for long-term stability.

4. University of Memphis: With over 20,000 students, the campus is a city within a city. The U of M employs security for grounds, events, and dorms. It’s a good entry point with tuition assistance benefits if you want to further your education.

5. AutoZone & International Paper: Two Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Memphis. They need security for their corporate campuses and distribution centers. These roles often involve more access control and less low-level patrol, which can be less stressful.

6. Prominent Security Contract Firms (Local & National): Companies like Securitas, Allied Universal, and G4S (now part of Allied) are the major subcontractors. They hold contracts for the companies listed above. Working for a contractor means you’re employed by the firm, not the client. Pay is often at the lower end of the spectrum, but it’s a way to get your foot in the door and gain experience. Insider Tip: Some contracts (e.g., for FedEx) pay a premium. Always ask which client you’ll be assigned to.

Hiring Trends: Post-pandemic, there’s increased demand for guards who can handle not just theft but also health compliance and conflict resolution. Technology (CCTV, access control systems) is becoming a baseline skill. The 3% job growth means it’s a replacement market; you’ll need to be persistent and network.

Getting Licensed in TN

Tennessee has a straightforward, mandatory licensing process through the Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance (TDCI). You cannot legally work as an armed guard or a security company employee without a license.

Requirements for an Unarmed Security Guard:

1. Be at least 18 years old.
2. Pass a criminal background check (fingerprinted through an approved vendor). Felonies will disqualify you.
3. Complete a 4-hour training course from a TDCI-approved instructor. This covers Tennessee law, use of force, report writing, and ethics. The course typically costs $75 - $150.
4. Submit an application to TDCI with proof of training, fingerprints, and a fee ($65 application fee).
5. Total Timeline: From start to finish, it can take 4-8 weeks to get your license. Start the process before you start applying for jobs.

For Armed Security Guards (Higher Pay):

• Must be at least 21.
• Complete a 16-hour state-certified firearms training course (cost: $300 - $500).
• Additional fees and a more extensive background check.
• Armed guards in Memphis can earn $2 - $5 more per hour, moving into the $40,000 - $55,000 range.

Insider Tip: Many employers, especially larger contractors, will sponsor your training if you commit to working for them. Always ask about this during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Your commute and quality of life matter. Memphis is spread out, and traffic, while not as bad as Nashville, can be a factor. Here are neighborhoods that offer a good balance for security guards earning the median.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Avg. 1BR Rent	Why It Works for Security Guards
East Memphis (e.g., near Poplar Ave)	Upscale, safe, central. 15-20 min to downtown, 10 min to airport.	$1,250	Close to major hospitals (Methodist, Baptist), corporate offices (AutoZone, FedEx). Easy commute to high-paying posts.
Cordova (East)	Suburban, family-friendly. 25-30 min to downtown.	$1,100	Affordable, safe, and near FedEx’s massive World Hub and many distribution centers. Ideal for logistics security jobs.
Bartlett	Quiet, suburban, north of the city. 20-25 min to downtown.	$1,050	Lower crime rates, good schools. Close to municipal jobs (city/county) and the University of Memphis northern edge.
Midtown	Historic, walkable, diverse. 10-15 min to downtown.	$1,000	Hip, but research specific blocks. It’s central to many posts, but parking can be tough. Good for those who want a vibrant life off-shift.
Southaven, MS (Just South of Memphis)	First-ring suburb, very affordable. 15-20 min to downtown.	$950	Technically in another state, but a short commute. Lower taxes, cheaper rent. Many security jobs at Southaven Mall and DeSoto County hospitals.

Insider Tip: If you work at the airport or FedEx Hub, living in Bartlett or Cordova is ideal to avoid the I-40/I-240 corridor during rush hour. For downtown posts, Midtown offers the shortest commute, but lock your car.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Stagnation is the enemy. The 10-year job growth of 3% means you must actively manage your career to advance.

Specialty Premiums:

• Armed Security: As noted, adds $2-$5/hour.
• Executive Protection: Requires advanced training and networking. Can pay $60,000 - $80,000+ in Memphis for corporate or high-net-worth individuals.
• K-9 Handler: Adds a premium of $3-$7/hour. Memphis is a logistics hub, so K-9 units for narcotics/ explosives detection at warehouses and the airport are common.
• Technology/Access Control: Certifications in systems like Lenel or Genetec can move you from a patrol guy to a systems operator, bumping pay into the mid-$40s.
• Investigations/Intel: Moving into corporate loss prevention or private investigation requires more experience and a PI license, but it’s a path to $50,000 - $70,000.

Advancement Paths:

1. Guard → Shift Supervisor: Adds $3 - $5/hour. Requires leadership skills and experience.
2. Supervisor → Account Manager (for a contractor): You manage the client relationship. Requires business acumen and can pay $50,000 - $65,000.
3. Corporate Security Officer (for a large company like FedEx or AutoZone): Internal move. You focus on risk assessment, investigations, and program management. Salaries start in the $50,000s and go much higher.

10-Year Outlook: The field will integrate more technology. Guards who are comfortable with apps, basic IT, and integrated security systems will have the advantage. The demand for warm bodies on a post will remain, but the premium will be on the tech-savvy and those with soft skills for de-escalation.

The Verdict: Is Memphis Right for You?

Ultimately, the decision is personal. Memphis offers a low cost of living and solid job opportunities, but it has real challenges.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your paycheck goes further than in Nashville or national averages.	Pay is Modest: The median of $35,316 is a working-class wage; financial discipline is non-negotiable.
Stable Job Market: 1,237 jobs and consistent demand from logistics and healthcare giants.	High Crime Perception: While some areas are very safe, the city’s overall crime rate is high, which affects the job’s stress level and some neighborhoods.
Diverse Employer Base: From federal contractors to hospitals to sports venues.	Car Dependency: You will need a reliable car; public transit is insufficient for most commuting needs.
No State Income Tax: Keeps more of your take-home pay.	Limited Growth: The 3% job growth is slow; advancement requires you to be proactive.
Rich Culture & Music: Off-the-clock life is vibrant and affordable.	Political & Social Tensions: The city has complex social dynamics that can impact certain security posts.

Final Recommendation: Memphis is a strong “yes” for security guards who are practical, proactive, and looking for stability over high glamour. It’s a fantastic place to build foundational experience, especially in logistics or healthcare security. If you’re willing to get licensed, network, and pursue a specialty (like armed or tech-based roles), you can build a solid, middle-class life here. However, if your goal is to earn $60,000+ quickly, you may need to target armed roles from day one or consider a more expensive city with higher pay scales.

FAQs

1. What’s the best way to find a security job in Memphis?
Start with the big employers’ career pages (FedEx, the hospital systems, City of Memphis). Also, look at Indeed and LinkedIn, but filter for “security guard” and “Memphis.” Don’t ignore security contractor websites (Allied, Securitas). Networking is key—join local professional groups like the Memphis chapter of ASIS International if you’re serious about advancing.

2. Is the cost of living really that low?
Yes, but it’s nuanced. Rent at $1,146 is manageable with a roommate or in a cheaper neighborhood, but food and utilities can be higher than expected. The Cost of Living Index of 92.4 is accurate, but your individual spending habits will define your reality. Budgeting is critical.

3. Do I need a car?
Absolutely. Memphis is a sprawling city with limited public transit (MATA buses and trolleys). A car is essential for getting to jobs, especially in the suburbs or at the airport. Factor in gas, insurance, and maintenance costs.

4. Can I make more than the median salary?
Yes, but it requires specialization. The median is $35,316. To break into the $40,000 - $50,000 range, you’ll need to become an armed guard, a supervisor, or gain technical skills. Expert roles at major corporations can hit $60,000+, but those are competitive and require experience.

5. What’s the biggest challenge for new security guards in Memphis?
The first challenge is securing a reliable, well-paying post. The second is the emotional toll of dealing with Memphis’s crime and social issues. The third is career stagnation—avoiding the trap of staying in an entry-level role for too long. Invest in your training and license early, and always