Security Guard in San Angelo, TX

The Salary Picture: Where San Angelo Stands

As someone who’s watched the local job market for years, I can tell you that Security Guard pay in San Angelo is a study in regional realities. You’re not going to get Houston or Dallas prices, but the cost of living here makes the numbers work for many. Let’s break down the data clearly.

The median salary for Security Guards in the San Angelo metro area is $35,153/year. That translates to an hourly rate of $16.9/hour. For context, the national average sits at $36,140/year, putting us just slightly below the U.S. median. The metro area supports about 194 jobs in this field, with a 10-year job growth projection of 3%. This isn’t explosive growth, but it’s stable, tied to the city’s consistent need for security at hospitals, schools, and industrial sites.

Here’s a realistic experience-level breakdown. These are estimates based on local job postings and industry chatter, not official BLS data, but they reflect what you’ll see in the San Angelo market.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate	Typical Local Role
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.46 - $15.38	Mall security, basic site patrols
Mid-Level (2-5 yrs)	$33,000 - $38,000	$15.87 - $18.27	Hospital security, corporate campus
Senior (5-10 yrs)	$38,000 - $45,000	$18.27 - $21.63	Supervisor, lead at major site
Expert (10+ yrs)	$45,000+	$21.63+	Management, specialist (e.g., critical infrastructure)

When you stack San Angelo against other Texas cities, the gap is noticeable. The $35,153 median is about $2,500 below the Texas state average for Security Guards (which hovers around $37,600). It’s significantly lower than Austin ($39,400) or Dallas-Fort Worth ($38,100), but it’s roughly in line with other West Texas metros like Abilene or Midland-Odessa. The trade-off is the dramatically lower cost of living.

Insider Tip: The $16.9/hour starting rate is common at large national contractors (like Securitas or Allied Universal) servicing local contracts. Smaller, local firms sometimes pay slightly less but may offer more consistent hours. Always ask about shift differentials—nights and weekends can add $1.00-$2.00/hour to your base pay.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to brass tacks: what does $35,153/year actually feel like in San Angelo? Using a conservative estimate (assuming single filer, standard deduction, ~22% effective tax rate for federal/FICA/state), your monthly take-home pay would be approximately $2,200 - $2,300. This is a rough calculation, but it’s a solid starting point for budgeting.

The average 1-bedroom rent in San Angelo is $927/month. That’s a key number. If you take home $2,250/month, your rent would claim about 41% of your income. This is above the recommended 30% threshold, but it’s manageable if you’re careful with other expenses. The Cost of Living Index for San Angelo is 90.9 (US avg = 100), meaning your dollar goes about 10% further here than the national average. Groceries, utilities, and transportation are all cheaper than in coastal cities.

Can you afford to buy a home? It’s tight but possible, especially with a partner or if you move up to a senior role. The median home price in San Angelo is around $220,000. With a $35,153 income, you’d likely need a FHA loan (3.5% down, ~$7,700) and would be looking at a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes/insurance) of roughly $1,500-$1,600. That would push your housing cost to over 50% of your take-home pay on a single income, which is financially risky. It’s more feasible if you reach the $45,000+ expert level or have a dual-income household.

Monthly Budget Snapshot (Single Guard at Median Salary)

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	% of Take-Home Pay
Rent (1BR Average)	$927	~41%
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Water)	$150	~7%
Groceries	$300	~13%
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	~16%
Gas/Transportation	$120	~5%
Health Insurance (if not employer)	$200	~9%
Phone/Internet	$80	~4%
Total Essentials	$2,127	~95%
Remaining (Savings, Fun, etc.)	~$123	~5%

This budget is tight. The $123 left over isn’t much for emergencies, savings, or entertainment. This is why many guards in San Angelo pursue overtime, which is often available, especially at hospital or industrial sites. A few extra shifts a month can add $300-$500 to your bottom line.

Where the Jobs Are: San Angelo's Major Employers

The job market for Security Guards in San Angelo is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, education, retail, and industrial. The 194 jobs in the metro are spread across these employers. Hiring trends are steady, not booming. Turnover is normal, so openings occur regularly.

1. San Angelo Regional Airport (Mathis Field): The airport authority and its contractors (like TSA for screening and private firms for perimeter security) are consistent employers. They require a higher level of training and often a clean background check. Pay is typically at the higher end of the local range.
2. San Angelo Independent School District (SAISD): School security is a major niche. Guards are stationed at high schools (Central, Lake View, etc.) and middle schools. The role is less about confrontation and more about presence, monitoring, and emergency response. Hiring often aligns with the school calendar (late summer).
3. Shannon Medical Center & Area Hospitals: This is the largest employer in the city. Shannon and other clinics need 24/7 security for patient safety, asset protection, and access control. These jobs often include benefits and offer clear paths to supervisor roles. They are a top target for applicants.
4. Christoval Valley Golf Club & Local Country Clubs: While smaller, these venues hire for event security and overnight patrols. It’s a good option for those who prefer a quieter, more routine environment. Networking here can lead to private client referrals.
5. Local Retail & Industrial Parks: The Sunset Mall and shopping centers off Knickerbocker Road are regular hirers. For industrial, look at the San Angelo Business Park and the San Angelo Industrial Park. Companies like oilfield service providers or manufacturing plants (e.g., those supporting the Fort Concho area) often need site security.
6. City of San Angelo: The city itself hires for public facility security (parks, community centers) and sometimes for special events. These are city jobs, which often come with better benefits but a more rigid hiring process.

Insider Tip: Many of these employers use national contract security firms. Applying directly to the firm (e.g., Allied Universal, which has a local office) is often faster than applying to the client site. However, knowing the site manager at Shannon or SAISD can get your resume to the top of the pile. Attend local job fairs—the San Angelo Workforce Solutions office on Sherwood Way frequently hosts them.

Getting Licensed in TX

Texas has a straightforward but mandatory licensing process for Security Guards. You cannot legally work as a paid armed or unarmed guard without it.

1. Training: You must complete a 6-hour DPS-approved training course for an unarmed Security Guard license. This covers legal aspects, use of force, and emergency procedures. In San Angelo, these courses are offered by local training providers (search for “Texas Security Guard License San Angelo”). The cost ranges from $75 to $150.
2. Fingerprinting: You must get your fingerprints taken at an approved vendor. This is often done at the same location as your training. Cost: approximately $50-$70.
3. Application: Submit your application online through the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Private Security Bureau website. The application fee is $38.25. You’ll need to provide your training certificate and fingerprints.
4. Background Check: A thorough background check is conducted. Any felony or certain misdemeanors will disqualify you. Be honest on your application.
5. Timeline: From start to finish, the process can take 4 to 8 weeks. The DPS website provides current processing times. Once approved, your license is valid for two years.

For Armed Security: The requirements are stricter. You need an additional 15 hours of firearms training (total 21 hours), a psychological evaluation, and must pass a shooting proficiency test. The total cost is significantly higher ($300-$500+). Armed guards in San Angelo earn a premium, often $2-$5 more per hour than unarmed counterparts.

Insider Tip: Start your application before you start job hunting. Many employers will not interview you without a license in hand or at least proof of enrollment in training. The local DPS office in San Angelo (on North Oakes Street) can provide guidance, but the application is entirely online.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Living in San Angelo means choosing between commute time, rent cost, and lifestyle. For a Security Guard working irregular shifts, a short, safe commute is invaluable. Here are four areas to consider:

1. The College Hills / Southland Area (Zip: 76904): This is the heart of the city, near Angelo State University and the historic downtown. It’s walkable, with plenty of restaurants and bars. You’re central to most jobs—Shannon, SAISD, and downtown offices are all within a 10-15 minute drive. Rent for a 1BR: $850 - $1,000. The vibe is active, younger, and a bit more expensive.
2. The North Side (Zip: 76901 & 76903): This is the more established, residential part of town. Neighborhoods like Glenmore or areas off HWY 67 N are quiet, with single-family homes. Commute to the airport or industrial parks is easy. It’s family-friendly and generally more affordable. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $900. A great choice if you want space and quiet.
3. The South Side (Zip: 76904 & 76905): This area is growing, with newer apartment complexes and subdivisions. It offers modern amenities and is close to the Sunset Mall and major shopping. Commute to SAISD schools or Shannon (south campus) is very short. Rent for a 1BR: $800 - $950. Ideal for those who want convenience and newer housing stock.
4. The East Side / Sherwood Way Corridor (Zip: 76903): This is the commercial and retail hub. If you work at the mall or in a retail security role, living here means a commute of under 10 minutes. It’s less scenic but incredibly practical. Rent for a 1BR: $750 - $900. Best for maximizing time off and minimizing gas costs.

Insider Tip: If you work nights, prioritize a neighborhood with low through-traffic and good lighting. The North Side and parts of Southland are generally quieter at 2 a.m. than the busy Sherwood Way corridor. Always check the specific street before signing a lease.

The Long Game: Career Growth

A Security Guard role in San Angelo isn’t necessarily a dead-end job, but the path to advancement requires proactivity. The 10-year job growth of 3% indicates slow, steady expansion, not a boom. To increase your earnings and responsibility, you need to specialize.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Armed Guard: The biggest pay jump. As noted, expect $2-$5/hour more. Requires the additional license and training.
  • Executive Protection: Very rare in San Angelo, but possible for high-net-worth individuals or corporate executives visiting the area. Requires extensive training and networking.
  • Fire Watch / Special Risks: Guards certified for fire watch (often required at construction sites or during outages) can command higher rates. Training courses are available locally.
  • Supervisor / Field Supervisor: Moving from a guard to a supervisor role at a contract firm can increase pay by 10-20% and offer more stable hours. It requires leadership skills and often 2+ years of experience.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Contract Guard to Site Supervisor: Work diligently at a major site (like Shannon), learn the operations, and express interest in leadership.
  2. Guard to Law Enforcement: Many local deputies and San Angelo PD officers start as security guards. It’s a common pipeline, requiring additional academy training.
  3. Specialize in a Niche: Become the go-to person for a specific client, like the airport or a major industrial site. This makes you harder to replace and gives you leverage for higher pay.
  4. Move into Management: With a business degree or relevant certifications (like CPP - Certified Protection Professional), you could aim for a corporate security manager role, though these are limited in San Angelo and may require relocating to a larger city.

10-Year Outlook: The field will remain stable. The 3% growth will likely be in healthcare and educational security, driven by an aging population and continuing school safety concerns. Technology (cameras, access control) will change the job, making tech-savvy guards more valuable. The key to long-term success in San Angelo is to be versatile, reliable, and willing to pursue additional certifications.

The Verdict: Is San Angelo Right for You?

San Angelo offers a stable, affordable entry into the security field, but it comes with trade-offs. It’s not a place for rapid career explosion, but it’s excellent for building a solid foundation.

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living: Your $35,153 salary goes further here than in most metros.	Limited High-Paying Jobs: The $16.9/hour median is modest; significant raises require specialization or management.
Stable Job Market: Core employers (hospitals, schools) provide consistent demand.	Slow Growth: The 3% 10-year growth means competition for the best jobs can be steady.
Manageable Commutes: Most neighborhoods offer short drives to work.	Limited Nightlife/Culture: If you crave a bustling city scene, San Angelo may feel quiet.
Friendly, Community Feel: Easier to network and build a reputation.	Dependence on Contractors: Many jobs are tied to national firms, which can limit local control.
Pathway to Homeownership: Possible with dual income or career advancement.	Weather: West Texas summers are hot and dry; be prepared for long hours in the heat.

Final Recommendation: San Angelo is an excellent choice for Security Guards who value affordability, a slower pace of life, and community. It’s ideal for those starting their career, seeking stability, or looking for a place where they can eventually buy a home. If you are highly ambitious, seeking rapid salary growth, or need a vibrant, 24/7 city environment, you may find the ceiling here too low. For many, the balance of a fair wage and a low cost of living makes San Angelo a pragmatic and rewarding place to build a security career.

FAQs

Q: Do I need a car to work as a Security Guard in San Angelo?
A: Almost certainly, yes. Public transportation is limited, and job sites (the airport, industrial parks, schools) are spread out across the city. A reliable vehicle is essential for getting to shifts on time, especially for overnight or early morning assignments.

Q: How competitive is the job market for Security Guards here?
A: It’s moderately competitive. With 194 jobs in the metro, there are opportunities, but you’re competing with a local pool of applicants. Having your Texas license before you apply gives you a major advantage. Being flexible with shifts (willing to work nights/weekends) also significantly improves your chances.

Q: Can I work armed security in San Angelo with a standard Security Guard license?
A: No. Texas requires a separate, more rigorous Armed Security Guard License. This involves additional training (15 hours of firearms instruction), a psychological evaluation, and passing a shooting proficiency test. The process is more expensive and takes longer.

Q: What’s the best way to find a job quickly?
A: Go directly to the source. Visit the San Angelo Workforce Solutions office on Sherwood Way. They have listings and can help with resumes. Simultaneously, apply online to national contractors like Allied Universal and Securitas