Security Guard in Roseville, CA

Here is a comprehensive career guide for Security Guards considering a move to Roseville, CA.

As a career analyst who has spent years studying the Sacramento metro job market, I’ve watched Roseville evolve from a quiet suburb into a bustling hub. I’m not here to sell you on the city—just to give you the unvarnished facts. If you’re a security guard weighing a move, this guide is for you. We’ll break down the numbers, the neighborhoods, and the real-world logistics of making a life here on a guard’s salary.

The Salary Picture: Where Roseville Stands

First, let's talk numbers. The data paints a clear picture of the earning potential for security guards in this area.

• Median Salary: $37,104/year
• Hourly Rate: $17.84/hour
• National Average: $36,140/year
• Jobs in Metro: 318
• 10-Year Job Growth: 3%

At a glance, Roseville’s median salary for security guards sits slightly above the national average. However, that margin is thin. The real story is in the local cost of living, which we’ll tackle next. The job market is stable but not booming; with only 318 positions in the metro area and a projected 10-year growth of just 3%, competition for the better-paying roles can be stiff.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earnings will vary based on experience, certifications, and the type of post you secure (e.g., a corporate office vs. a retail loss prevention role). Here’s a realistic breakdown for the Roseville area.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Key Factors in Roseville
Entry-Level	$32,000 - $36,000	Armed vs. unarmed, basic posts (retail, pat-downs), standard shifts.
Mid-Level	$37,000 - $42,000	Median salary range. May include shift premiums, some specialized training.
Senior	$43,000 - $52,000	Supervisory roles, lead guard, specialized posts (data centers, hospitals).
Expert	$53,000+	Management, corporate security, high-risk/armed details, government contracts.

Insider Tip: The jump from mid-level to senior often isn't about tenure alone. Getting your Firearms Permit (CCW) and Baton Permit from the CA DOJ and local sheriff’s office can instantly add $3-$5/hour to your rate. Roseville PD is strict but fair; having a clean record is non-negotiable.

Comparison to Other CA Cities

California is a tale of two economies. While the Bay Area and LA are priced out for most entry-level security work, Sacramento-area cities like Roseville offer a middle ground.

City	Median Salary (Security Guard)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Rent (1BR Avg)
Roseville	$37,104	108.9	$1,666
San Francisco	$45,000+	269.3	$3,200+
Los Angeles	$38,500	173.3	$2,300
Sacramento	$36,800	114.2	$1,750
Fresno	$34,500	94.5	$1,250

Roseville’s median salary is nearly identical to Sacramento’s, but the cost of living is slightly lower. Compared to Fresno, the pay is better, but the cost is higher. For a security guard, Roseville offers a balance—you earn a livable wage without the extreme costs of coastal cities.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s build a realistic monthly budget for a security guard earning the median salary of $37,104. This is a critical step to understanding if Roseville is financially feasible.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Gross: $3,092)

• Taxes (Federal, State, FICA): ~$700 (Estimated, varies by filing status)
• Net Take-Home Pay: ~$2,392/month
• Rent (1BR Average): $1,666/month (This is the county-wide average; see neighborhood breakdown below)
• Remaining After Rent: $726/month

This $726 must cover all utilities (PG&E, which is high in CA), groceries, gas, car insurance, phone, and any savings or emergencies. It’s tight but doable with strict budgeting. Many guards in Roseville work overtime or part-time second jobs to build a buffer.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

Let’s be direct: No, not on this salary alone. The median home price in Roseville exceeds $550,000. A 20% down payment is $110,000, and a monthly mortgage payment would be over $2,800—more than the entire net take-home pay. Homeownership on a $37,104 salary is not a realistic short-to-medium term goal without a dual-income household or significant assets. Renting is the standard mode for security guards in this market.

Where the Jobs Are: Roseville's Major Employers

The demand for security guards in Roseville is driven by its specific industries: healthcare, retail, and tech. Here are the key employers to target.

1. Sutter Health (Roseville Medical Center): A major hub. They hire for both in-house security and contract roles through vendors like Securitas or Allied Universal. Posts include patient privacy, parking lots, and ER monitoring. Hiring is steady due to 24/7 operations.
2. Kaiser Permanente (Roseville Medical Center): Similar to Sutter. Kaiser often prefers in-house security teams but uses contractors for large events. They value de-escalation training highly.
3. The Fountains at Roseville: A massive outdoor shopping and dining complex. Retail loss prevention is a huge here. Companies like Loss Prevention Systems Inc. (LPSI) and the mall's own security team hire frequently, especially for holiday seasons.
4. Intel (Folsom Campus, 15 min commute): While not in Roseville proper, Intel’s massive campus in Folsom is a prime employer. They contract with firms like G4S for perimeter security, access control, and corporate security. The pay is often higher than the Roseville median.
5. Roseville City School District: Hires for school security officers (SROs) and campus monitors. These roles typically require a CA Guard Card and may prefer experience with youth.
6. Granite Bay & Loomis Basin Districts: The affluent suburbs of Granite Bay and Loomis have private estates, wineries, and corporate offices that hire for gated community and event security. Networking here is key.
7. G4S / Allied Universal / Securitas: These national contractors have a strong presence in the Sacramento region and handle many of the contracts for the employers listed above. They are the most common entry point.

Hiring Trend Insight: Post-pandemic, there’s a slight uptick in demand for "concierge security" in corporate lobbies, blending customer service with security. Having a polished appearance and strong communication skills can set you apart.

Getting Licensed in CA

California has strict licensing requirements for security guards. You cannot legally work without a valid Guard Card.

Step-by- Step Process & Costs:

1. Apply for a Guard Card: You must be at least 18, pass a criminal background check, and complete a CA Bureau of Security & Investigative Services (BSIS)-approved 8-hour "Power to Arrest" course.
   • Cost: $150 - $250 for the course and materials.
   • Timeline: The course can be completed in one day. Applications take 4-6 weeks for processing.
2. Fingerprinting: Required as part of the application. Done at Live Scan locations throughout the Sacramento area.
   • Cost: ~$70
3. Additional Certifications (Highly Recommended):
   • Firearms Permit: Requires an additional 8-hour course, live-fire qualification, and BSIS application. Cost: $400 - $600 total. This is a career game-changer.
   • Baton Permit: A 4-hour course. Cost: $150 - $200.

Insider Tip: Do not pay for a course that guarantees a job. Use the BSIS website to find accredited trainers. Many local community colleges (like Sierra College in Rocklin) offer competitive pricing.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Where you live in Roseville directly impacts your commute and rent. Here’s a neighborhood guide.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent (1BR Estimate)	Best For...
Downtown Roseville	Walkable, older homes, close to shops and restaurants. 10-15 min to major employers.	$1,550 - $1,750	Guards who want to avoid a car commute and enjoy a central location.
West Roseville	Newer developments (e.g., Blue Oaks). More suburban, family-oriented. 15-20 min to downtown.	$1,700 - $1,900	Those with families or who prefer modern amenities. A longer commute to some healthcare jobs.
East Roseville	Older, established, more affordable. Close to the Fountains and major retail hubs. 10-15 min commute.	$1,400 - $1,600	Budget-conscious guards who work retail or need quick access to I-80 for commuting to Folsom.
Rocklin (adjacent)	Similar to West Roseville, very safe, excellent schools. 5-10 min commute to Roseville.	$1,650 - $1,800	Those who value safety and don't mind a short commute. Many guards live here.
Granite Bay (adjacent)	Upscale, large estates. Commute to Roseville jobs is 10-15 min. Rent is higher.	$2,000+	Not ideal for a single guard on a median salary. Better for senior roles or dual incomes.

Commute Note: Traffic is manageable. The worst congestion is on I-80 and Highway 65 during rush hour. Living in East Roseville or Rocklin gives you the most flexibility.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year outlook for security guards is stable but not dynamic. Advancement requires proactively seeking specialization.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Armed: $3-$6/hour premium. Highest demand in corporate security (Intel, Sutter) and cannabis security (a growing niche in CA).
  • Executive Protection: Requires training and networking. Pay can be $30+/hour for freelance gigs, but it's inconsistent.
  • Corporate Security: Often leads to in-house roles with benefits. Start as a contractor, transition to full-time.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Guard to Supervisor: Requires 2-3 years of solid performance and leadership skills.
  2. Supervisor to Manager: Often requires a degree or significant experience. Overseeing multiple sites and contracts.
  3. Transition to Law Enforcement: Many guards use the experience as a stepping stone to apply for Roseville PD, Sacramento County Sheriff, or CHP. This is a 12-24 month process with intense competition.

10-Year Outlook: The security field is increasingly tech-integrated. Guards who learn basic access control systems (card readers, CCTV) and report-writing software will have an edge. The 3% growth means you must be adaptable. Don't expect massive wage growth without added certifications.

The Verdict: Is Roseville Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Moderate Cost of Living: More affordable than CA coastal cities.	Tight Budget: On $37,104, every dollar counts. Rent is high relative to income.
Stable Job Market: Healthcare, retail, and tech provide consistent demand.	Limited Job Growth: Competition for higher-paying roles is real.
Central Location: Easy access to Sacramento, Folsom, and the Sierra for recreation.	Car-Dependent: Public transit is limited. A reliable car is a must.
Safe & Clean: Roseville is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in CA.	Can Feel Suburban: Lacks the cultural diversity and nightlife of a major city.

Final Recommendation: Roseville is a viable option for a mid-career security guard with a specialty (like armed certification) or someone willing to work overtime. It’s less ideal for entry-level guards just starting out, as the budget is extremely tight. If you have a partner or roommate, the financial strain eases significantly. For a single person, it’s a test of budgeting discipline, but the quality of life and professional opportunities make it worth considering.

FAQs

1. Can I get a job in Roseville without being licensed first?
No. CA law requires a valid Guard Card to work. Some companies may hire you contingent on you completing the course within 30 days, but you cannot be on post without it.

2. How do I find job openings?
Start with the major employers (Sutter, Kaiser) and contractor websites (Allied Universal, Securitas). Also, check the City of Roseville’s official job board and Sierra College’s career portal. Networking with guards at a local gym or coffee shop can uncover unposted opportunities.

3. Is the cost of living really that high?
Yes, especially for utilities (PG&E) and gas. The Cost of Living Index of 108.9 means you’ll pay about 9% more than the U.S. average for goods and services. Your biggest expense by far will be rent.

4. What’s the best way to increase my salary quickly?
Get your Firearms Permit. It’s the single fastest way to jump to a higher pay bracket. Also, specialize in a niche like healthcare security (Sutter, Kaiser) or corporate security (Intel), which often pay more than retail security.

5. Is Roseville safe for security guards to live in?
Extremely safe. Roseville’s violent crime rate is far below the national average. This is a positive, but it also means less demand for high-deterrence security posts compared to urban centers like Sacramento or Oakland. Your work environment will generally be low-stress.

Sources: Salary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment Statistics and local job postings. Cost of living data is from the Council for Community and Economic Research (C2ER). Job growth projections are from the California Employment Development Department (EDD).