Security Guard in Midland, TX

The Salary Picture: Where Midland Stands

If you're a security guard looking at Midland, the first thing to understand is that your paycheck will stretch further here than in most Texas metros, but you won't be hitting the top end of the state's pay scale. Let's break down the numbers, which are based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local job market analysis.

Here’s how your earning potential stacks up based on experience level in the Midland area:

Experience Level	Typical Midland Salary	What the Job Entails
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$29,000 - $33,000/year	$13.94 - $15.87/hour. Basic patrol, access control at commercial sites, retail loss prevention. Often starts with unarmed positions.
Mid-Career (3-7 years)	$33,000 - $38,000/year	$15.87 - $18.27/hour. This is close to the median salary of $35,576/year ($17.1/hour). You'll handle more complex posts, maybe supervise a small team, or work in healthcare or industrial settings.
Senior (8-15 years)	$38,000 - $42,000/year	$18.27 - $20.19/hour. Shift supervisor, armed guard (with proper licensing), or specialist in critical infrastructure. Pay bump comes with responsibility.
Expert/Specialist (15+ years)	$42,000 - $50,000+	$20.19 - $24.04+/hour. This is for those who move into management, corporate security consulting, or high-risk roles (e.g., executive protection, intelligence liaison).

How Midland Compares to Other Texas Cities:

Midland's security guard pay sits just below the state and national averages. The national average is $36,140/year, so Midland's $35,576/year is only slightly lower. You'll earn less than in Dallas, Houston, or Austin, but significantly more than in some rural East Texas towns. The real advantage is the lower cost of living. A guard in Austin making $38,000 might struggle, while that same $38,000 in Midland provides a more comfortable lifestyle.

Insider Tip: The 3% 10-year job growth for the metro area (BLS data) is modest but stable. Midland’s economy is tied to oil and gas, so security demand swells during boom cycles and tightens during downturns. However, healthcare and education are growing, creating more consistent demand.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. With a median salary of $35,576/year ($17.1/hour), your monthly gross pay is approximately $2,965. After federal, state (Texas has no state income tax), and FICA taxes, your take-home is roughly $2,300 - $2,350 per month.

Now, let's see if you can afford a place to live. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Midland is $1,372/month. That's a significant chunk of your take-home pay—about 58-60%.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Person, No Dependents):

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	$2,350	Based on $35,576/year salary.
Rent (1BR Avg)	-$1,372	This is the city average. See "Neighborhoods" section for cheaper options.
Utilities	-$150	Electricity, water, gas, internet (basic).
Car Payment/Insurance	-$300	Midland is a driving city. Public transit is limited.
Gas & Maintenance	-$120	Commuting costs.
Groceries	-$250	Cooking at home is key.
Health Insurance	-$150	If not covered by employer.
Misc./Personal	-$150	Phone, streaming, occasional eating out.
Remaining	-$42	This is extremely tight.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?
On a $35,576 salary, purchasing a home in Midland is challenging but not impossible. The median home price is around $250,000-$270,000. With a 3.5% FHA loan down payment (~$8,750), you'd be looking at a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) of $1,400 - $1,600. This would consume over 60% of your take-home pay, which lenders generally don't allow (they look for debt-to-income ratios under 43%). Verdict: Homeownership is unlikely on a single guard's median salary. It would require a dual income, a higher-paying specialty role (armed, supervisor), or a substantial down payment.

Where the Jobs Are: Midland's Major Employers

Midland's security job market is diverse but anchored by a few key industries. Here are the major players and where to find openings:

1. Permian Regional Medical Center / Midland Health: The healthcare sector is a major employer. Hospitals need guards for patient safety, access control, and night shift patrols. Hiring Trend: Steady demand, especially for 24/7 coverage. Look for postings from "Midland Health" or "Permian Regional."
2. Midland Independent School District (MISD): School security is a growing field. Positions might be for school resource officers (often requiring peace officer certification) or security monitors. Hiring Trend: Increasing post-pandemic. Check the MISD HR website directly.
3. Midland College: Campus safety is a priority. Guards work events, patrol grounds, and assist with campus security. Hiring Trend: Consistent, with some seasonal work during summer programs.
4. Midland International Energy (MIE) / Oil & Gas Facilities: This is where you find high-paying, specialized roles. Companies with plants, refineries, and pipelines (like those in the Permian Basin) hire armed guards for critical infrastructure. Hiring Trend: Tied to oil prices. During boom times, demand is high. A downturn can freeze hiring. Insider Tip: Many of these jobs are posted through third-party contractors like Allied Universal or Securitas, which service the major energy companies.
5. City of Midland / Municipal Facilities: The city employs security for public buildings, the airport, and special events. Hiring Trend: Stable, but often requires more certifications (like a Texas Peace Officer license). Check the City of Midland's official job board.
6. Major Retailers & Shopping Centers: The Midland Mall and big-box stores (Walmart, Target, Home Depot) need loss prevention officers. Hiring Trend: Consistent, but pay is typically at the lower end of the scale.
7. Private Security Firms: Local companies like A-1 Security and Midland Protection Services contract with businesses, construction sites, and events. Hiring Trend: This is a great way to get varied experience and find your niche.

Insider Tip: Allied Universal is the largest security contractor in the U.S. and has a significant presence in Midland. They service many of the major contracts (oil & gas, hospitals). Getting your foot in the door with them can lead to specialized assignments.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has clear but strict licensing for security guards, managed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Private Security Bureau (PSB).

• Unarmed Security Guard:

  • Requirements: Be at least 18, pass a background check, complete an 8-hour Level II training course (covering legal, ethics, and defensive tactics).
  • Cost: Training course typically $75 - $125. Application fee is $42. Total startup cost: ~$150 - $200.
  • Timeline: You can complete the 8-hour course in one day. Once you submit your application with the course certificate and fingerprints, processing can take 4-6 weeks.

• Armed Security Guard:

  • Requirements: Must be 21+, complete the Level II unarmed training, plus a 16-hour Level III course (firearms training, state laws, live-fire qualification). Must also pass a psychological exam.
  • Cost: Level III training is $300 - $500. Total licensing cost (including firearms, gear, and application) can be $600 - $900+.
  • Timeline: Additional 2-3 weeks for the Level III course and processing. The armed license is a significant investment but opens higher-paying doors in oil & gas and critical infrastructure.

Key Resource: The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau website is your official source for all forms, requirements, and fees. Do not rely on third-party sites for the latest rules.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Where you live affects your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Midland is spread out, so proximity to job clusters is key.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	1BR Rent Estimate	Best For
Northeast Midland	Quiet, residential, close to the airport and industrial areas. Commute to hospital or downtown is 10-15 mins.	$1,100 - $1,300	Guards working at the airport, MIE facilities, or Northeast schools. Budget-conscious.
Downtown / Historic District	Walkable, near restaurants and bars. Can be noisy. Commute to most jobs is under 15 mins.	$1,300 - $1,500	Those who want city life and don't mind older buildings. Good for event and downtown security gigs.
South Midland	Family-oriented, newer subdivisions. Commute to hospitals and schools is easy (10-20 mins).	$1,200 - $1,400	Guards with families or those working at Permian Regional or MISD schools.
West Midland (Near Mall)	Commercial hub, lots of shopping and dining. Direct access to I-20.	$1,250 - $1,450	Retail security guards, loss prevention officers. Easy commute to corporate offices.
Midland Northeast (Outskirts)	More rural feel, larger lots, lower density. Longer commute to central jobs (20-25 mins).	$950 - $1,150	For those seeking maximum affordability and don't mind the drive.

Insider Tip: Avoid the area immediately surrounding the Midland Mall (West Loop 250) if you dislike heavy traffic during peak hours. For a quieter life, look east of Midland Drive.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year job growth projection of 3% is modest, but your career growth doesn't have to be. Advancement in security is about specialization and responsibility.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Armed Guard: Adds $3 - $5/hour to base pay. Critical for high-risk posts.
  • Executive Protection: Requires advanced training (CPR, tactical driving) and can pay $25+/hour.
  • Fire Inspector/Dispatcher: Some guards cross-train into fire safety or 911 dispatch, offering a different career path.
  • Supervisory Roles: Shift supervisor or account manager adds $5,000 - $10,000/year to your salary.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Unarmed → Armed Guard: The most common and financially rewarding step.
  2. Field Guard → Supervisor → Account Manager: Move into managing people and client relationships.
  3. Security Guard → Corporate Security Analyst: With experience, transition into risk assessment and planning for companies.
  4. Private Sector → Public Sector: Obtain a Texas Peace Officer license and apply to Midland PD or the Sheriff's Office (requires a 2-year college degree or military service).

10-Year Outlook: While the overall number of jobs may only grow 3%, the types of jobs will evolve. Expect more demand for guards with cybersecurity awareness (protecting physical and digital assets) and de-escalation training in healthcare and education settings. Staying current with certifications is key.

The Verdict: Is Midland Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your salary goes further than in major metros.	Oil & Gas Dependence: Job market can be volatile with commodity prices.
Steady Demand in Key Sectors: Healthcare, education, and municipal jobs offer stability.	Limited Public Transit: A reliable car is a must, adding to monthly expenses.
Clear Career Pathways: Opportunities to advance into armed, supervisory, and specialty roles.	Long, Hot Summers: The climate can be a shock for newcomers.
Smaller City Feel: Less traffic and a more community-oriented environment.	Limited Nightlife/Entertainment: Compared to larger Texas cities.
No State Income Tax: More of your paycheck stays in your pocket.	Rental Market is Tight: The $1,372 average rent is high relative to the median salary.

Final Recommendation:
Midland is a viable and practical choice for security guards, especially those early to mid-career who are willing to specialize. It's not a place to get rich quickly, but it's a solid place to build experience and live comfortably if you manage your budget carefully. If you are considering a move, secure a job offer first. The rental market is competitive, and starting with a guaranteed income is crucial. Strongly consider obtaining your armed guard license—it's the single biggest lever for increasing your earning potential in this market.

FAQs

1. Can I survive in Midland on the median salary of $35,576?
Yes, but it requires careful budgeting. The key is finding rent below the city average. Look for a 1BR in the $1,100-$1,200 range, likely in Northeast or South Midland. You'll have little room for error, but a roommate can make it much more comfortable.

2. Do I need a car in Midland?
Absolutely. Midland is a vast, car-centric city with very limited public transportation. Your job will almost certainly require you to commute, and many posts (like patrolling large facilities) require you to drive on-site. Factor in $300-$400/month for a car payment, insurance, and gas.

3. Are there seasonal job fluctuations?
Yes, primarily due to the oil and gas industry. During a "bust," hiring for security guards at energy facilities may slow down. However, healthcare, schools, and retail provide a stable baseline of jobs year-round. Diversifying your experience makes you more resilient.

4. Is it worth getting an armed guard license in Midland?
Yes, if you want to maximize your income. The armed license opens doors to the highest-paying posts in the Permian Basin, often paying $20-$25/hour upfront. The initial investment ($600-$900) pays for itself within a few months of higher wages.

5. Where should I look for the first job?
Start with the two largest security contractors: Allied Universal and Securitas. They have multiple accounts and can place you in a variety of settings (hospital, retail, industrial). This is the fastest way to gain experience and start earning. Also, check the direct career pages of Midland Health and the City of Midland.

Data Sources: All salary, job growth, and cost of living data are synthesized from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau, RentCafe, and BestPlaces.net Cost of Living Index. Figures are approximate and based on the most recent available data.