Security Guard Career Guide: Roswell, GA

The Salary Picture: Where Roswell Stands

If you're considering a move to Roswell, Georgia, as a security guard, the first thing to understand is the local pay scale. Roswell is part of the Atlanta metropolitan area, which has a competitive market for security personnel. The median salary for a Security Guard in Roswell is $36,237 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.42. This figure is almost identical to the national average of $36,140, indicating that pay here is in line with the rest of the country, though it's important to remember that cost of living can vary significantly.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience impacts your earning potential in the Roswell area, here’s a breakdown:

Experience Level	Typical Roswell Annual Salary	Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$30,000 - $33,000	$14.42 - $15.87
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$34,000 - $38,000	$16.35 - $18.27
Senior (5-10 years)	$38,000 - $42,000	$18.27 - $20.19
Expert/Supervisor (10+ years)	$42,000+	$20.19+

When you compare Roswell to other major Georgia cities, its position is fairly standard. Atlanta's metro area, which Roswell is part of, has a larger volume of jobs but can also have a higher cost of living. Savannah, with its historic port and tourist economy, may offer slightly different shift opportunities (like overnight roles for hotels). Columbus, near Fort Benning, often has federal contract jobs that can pay more but require specific clearances. Athens, with its university population, might have more event security work. However, for your day-to-day residential and corporate security, Roswell's pay is competitive within the state's suburban framework.

Insider Tip: The 10-year job growth is only 3% nationally, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This means the field is stable but not exploding. To stand out and command higher pay in Roswell, focus on getting additional certifications (like CPR/AED, which are often required for hospital or school postings) or developing a specialty, such as armed security or cybersecurity awareness training for corporate clients.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Earning the median salary of $36,237 is one thing; living on it in Roswell is another. Georgia has a progressive income tax system (ranging from 1% to 5.75%), and you'll also pay federal taxes and FICA. After Uncle Sam and the state take their share, your take-home pay will be closer to $29,500 - $30,500 annually, or about $2,450 - $2,540 per month on average.

Now, let's look at the biggest monthly expense: rent. The average 1BR rent in Roswell is $1,643/month. The Cost of Living Index is 100.9, which is just 0.9% higher than the national average—Roswell isn't as expensive as Atlanta's core, but it's not a low-cost area either.

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

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income (Post-Tax)	$2,500	Based on median salary
Rent (1BR Average)	$1,643	65.7% of net income
Utilities (Electric, Gas, Water)	$180	Can vary by season
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$400	Roswell is car-dependent
Groceries & Household	$250	For one person
Healthcare (if not employer-provided)	$150
Phone/Internet	$100
Miscellaneous/Entertainment	$177
Total Expenses	$2,900	Exceeds income by $400

As you can see, this budget is tight. The $1,643 rent alone consumes over half of your take-home pay. This is why many security guards in Roswell share apartments or live with family. If you're a single person earning the median wage, buying a home is likely out of reach in the short term. The median home price in Roswell is over $400,000, requiring a down payment and mortgage payments that would be unsustainable on a guard's salary. Insider Tip: Look for rentals in neighboring cities like Woodstock or Canton to the north, where rents can be slightly lower, or consider a roommate situation in Roswell itself. Many guards find housing in the Cumming area, which is a common commute for those working in Roswell's corporate parks.

Where the Jobs Are: Roswell's Major Employers

Roswell's economy is a mix of healthcare, corporate offices, and retail. Security guard jobs are concentrated in these sectors. Here are the major local employers you should target:

1. North Fulton Hospital (Wellstar North Fulton): This is one of the largest employers in the area. Hospital security is a major niche, requiring guards who can handle sensitive situations with a calm demeanor. They often hire for 24/7 shifts. Look for postings for "Patient Safety Officer" or "Hospital Security."
2. The Home Depot Corporate Headquarters: While the main HQ is in Atlanta, The Home Depot has a massive presence in the North Fulton area, including logistics centers and regional offices in and around Roswell. These corporate campuses have dedicated security teams for access control and patrols.
3. Sandy Springs & Roswell Police Departments (Support Roles): While not sworn officers, both departments employ security personnel for their facilities, training academies, and community events. These are often stable, government-adjacent jobs with good benefits.
4. Northside Hospital-Forsyth: Located just north of Roswell in Cumming, this is a major healthcare hub. Many Roswell residents work here, and the hospital complex is a large employer of security staff for parking, ER access, and facility patrols.
5. Local Retail & Shopping Centers: North Point Mall (Alpharetta), Avalon (Alpharetta), and Roswell Town Center all have security teams. These jobs often involve foot patrols, customer service, and loss prevention. Hiring can be seasonal, but steady positions exist.
6. Private Security Companies (Contract Work): Companies like Securitas, Allied Universal, and G4S have regional contracts in Roswell. They service corporate offices, data centers, and construction sites. This is a common entry point with opportunities to move between assignments.
7. Roswell City Government & Schools: The City of Roswell hires guards for its facilities, parks, and events. The Roswell City School District also employs security for its campuses, though these often require specific state certifications for working in schools.

Hiring Trends: There is a consistent demand for overnight and weekend shifts across all these employers. Many are also seeking guards with de-escalation training and first aid/CPR certification. The post-pandemic era has seen increased focus on access control and monitoring building occupancy in corporate settings.

Getting Licensed in Georgia

Georgia's licensing process for security guards is managed by the Georgia Department of Public Safety, Private Security Division. It's a straightforward process, but you must follow the steps exactly.

Key Requirements:

• You must be at least 18 years old (21 for an armed license).
• No felony convictions or certain misdemeanors.
• You must complete a state-approved 24-hour training course (for an unarmed license). This course covers legal aspects, use of force, and report writing.
• For an armed license, you need an additional 16 hours of firearms training from a certified instructor, plus a separate application and background check.

Costs & Timeline:

• Training Course: Costs range from $125 to $250 for the unarmed 24-hour course. The armed course can add $300-$500 for firearms training and qualification.
• Licensing Fee: The state fee is $70 for a two-year unarmed license and $135 for an armed license.
• Background Check: Included in the state fee, but you may need to pay for fingerprinting separately ($50-$75).
• Timeline: Once you complete your training, the application process typically takes 2-4 weeks for approval and license issuance.

Insider Tip: Many community colleges and private security schools in the Atlanta area (like those in Marietta or Duluth, a short drive from Roswell) offer these courses. Do not start applying for jobs until you have your license in hand. Employers in Roswell will not consider you without it. Also, check the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council website for any updates to requirements.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Choosing where to live in Roswell depends on your work location, budget, and lifestyle. Here are 4-5 neighborhoods to consider:

1. East Roswell (Near Hwy 9 & Holcomb Bridge Rd):

   • Commute: Easy access to major employers like North Fulton Hospital and the corporate parks in Alpharetta.
   • Lifestyle: More residential, quieter. Good for families or those who want a suburban feel.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,500 - $1,700/month for a 1BR. Slightly below the city average.

2. Historic Roswell (Downtown):

   • Commute: Central location. Walking/biking to some jobs (e.g., city government, some retail). Easy drive to all major roads.
   • Lifestyle: Walkable, charming, with restaurants and shops. Can be noisier and more expensive.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,700 - $1,900/month for a 1BR. Higher than average.

3. West Roswell (Near Cobb County line):

   • Commute: Good access to I-75 for jobs in Marietta or Atlanta. A bit farther from North Fulton Hospital.
   • Lifestyle: Mix of older and newer developments. Less tourist traffic than downtown.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,450 - $1,650/month for a 1BR.

4. The Falls (East of Roswell):

   • Commute: Close to the Alpharetta border, ideal for jobs at The Home Depot or North Point Mall.
   • Lifestyle: Established neighborhood with parks and trails. Suburban comfort.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,600 - $1,800/month for a 1BR.

5. Cumming (Adjacent City):

   • Commute: 15-20 minutes to most Roswell job sites via GA-400.
   • Lifestyle: Growing suburban area with its own amenities. Often more affordable.
   • Rent Estimate: $1,400 - $1,600/month for a 1BR.

The Long Game: Career Growth

With a 3% 10-year growth projection, moving up requires intentionality. Here’s how to grow your career from a security guard in Roswell:

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Armed Guard: Can add $2-$5/hour to your base rate. Requires the additional license and insurance.
  • Executive Protection: High-end, but requires extensive training (often private). Rates can be $50+/hour for events.
  • Fire/EMS: Many guards get their EMT or Paramedic license to work in hospitals or high-risk sites, commanding $25-$35/hour.
  • Cybersecurity Awareness: For corporate roles, understanding physical security for IT assets is a growing niche.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Field Officer → Shift Supervisor: Move from a single post to overseeing a team. Requires leadership skills and reliability.
  2. Contract Guard → In-House Security: Work for a company like Securitas first, then get hired directly by a client (e.g., a hospital or corporate park) for better pay and benefits.
  3. Security Guard → Law Enforcement: Many use the experience as a stepping stone to apply for local police departments (Roswell PD, Alpharetta PD, Fulton County Sheriff). The training is valuable.
  4. Security Operations Manager: For those with college degrees or extensive experience, overseeing security programs for large facilities.

10-Year Outlook: The field will continue to be steady. The biggest changes will be in technology integration (cameras, access control systems) and a greater emphasis on customer service and de-escalation. Guards who adapt to tech and soft skills will have the best long-term prospects.

The Verdict: Is Roswell Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable job market with multiple major employers.	High rent relative to salary; buying a home is difficult.
Proximity to Atlanta for more job opportunities and networking.	Car-dependent city; poor public transit limits job locations.
High quality of life with good schools, parks, and safety.	Competitive entry-level job market.
Diverse job settings (hospitals, corporate, retail, government).	Growth is limited (3%), requiring proactive skill development.
Professional licensing is straightforward and affordable.	Cost of living just above the national average.

Final Recommendation: Roswell, GA, is a good choice for a security guard if you are early in your career, willing to share housing, and committed to getting licensed and upskilling. It offers a stable environment with clear paths to specialization (like armed or hospital work). However, if your primary goal is to buy a home on a single guard's salary, Roswell may be financially challenging. A commute from a more affordable neighboring city like Woodstock or Cumming could be a smart compromise. The key is to view Roswell as a launchpad—gain experience, build your resume, and use the proximity to Atlanta to climb the career ladder.

FAQs

Q: Can I work as a security guard in Roswell without a Georgia license?
A: No. Georgia law requires a valid Private Security License from the Department of Public Safety. Training and licensing are mandatory before you can be employed.

Q: What's the biggest challenge for a new security guard in Roswell?
A: Affordable housing. The gap between the median salary ($36,237) and the average rent ($1,643/month) is the single biggest hurdle for newcomers. Budgeting and considering roommates or nearby cities is essential.

Q: Are armed security jobs common in Roswell?
A: Yes, but they are more specialized. Hospitals, certain corporate offices, and armored car services use armed guards. You must first get your unarmed license and then complete the additional armed training and be hired by a company that requires it.

Q: Does Roswell have a lot of night shift opportunities?
A: Absolutely. Hospitals, data centers, and construction sites operate 24/7. Night shift work is very common and can sometimes offer a slight pay differential.

Q: How do I find the best-paying security jobs in Roswell?
A: Start with the major employers listed above (hospitals, corporate campuses). Also, check job boards for contract companies like Securitas and Allied Universal, who service many local sites. Networking on platforms like LinkedIn with local security managers can uncover unposted openings. Always verify the employer is using a licensed security company or is a direct hire (like the hospital or school district).