Here is a comprehensive career guide for Security Guards considering a move to Shreveport, Louisiana.

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A Local's Guide to a Security Guard Career in Shreveport, LA

Moving to a new city for work is a big decision. If you're a security guard looking at Shreveport, you need more than just job listings—you need the inside scoop on what life and work are really like here. As someone who knows this city, its rhythms, and its job market, I'm here to give you the direct, no-fluff information you need to make a smart choice. We'll break down the salary reality, where to find the best jobs, what neighborhoods fit your budget, and what your long-term career looks like in the Ark-La-Tex.

Let's get started.

The Salary Picture: Where Shreveport Stands

First, let's talk numbers. The security field isn't known for high starting pay, but Shreveport's cost of living works in your favor. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and local data, the median salary for Security Guards in Shreveport is $34,741 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $16.70. This is slightly below the national average of $36,140, but Shreveport's affordability often makes up for the difference.

It's important to understand that "median" means half of the guards here make more, and half make less. Your actual pay will depend heavily on experience, the type of site you work, and the company you work for. The metro area has 354 jobs for security guards, which is a stable, if not booming, market. The 10-year job growth is projected at 3%, which is steady but slower than the national average for this field. In short: jobs are available, but competition for the best-paying positions can be fierce.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earnings will climb as you gain experience and specialize. Here’s a realistic breakdown of what you can expect in the Shreveport market:

Experience Level	Typical Years	Estimated Annual Salary Range	Common Roles
Entry-Level	0-2 years	$29,000 - $32,000	Unarmed retail, event staff, basic patrol
Mid-Level	2-5 years	$33,000 - $38,000	Armed guard, hospital security, corporate office
Senior	5-10 years	$39,000 - $45,000+	Supervisor, lead guard, critical infrastructure
Expert/Management	10+ years	$46,000 - $55,000+	Site manager, security director, trainer

Comparison to Other Louisiana Cities

How does Shreveport stack up against other major cities in Louisiana? While Shreveport's median salary is lower than Baton Rouge or New Orleans, its lower cost of living significantly impacts your disposable income.

City	Median Salary (Security Guards)	Cost of Living Index (US Avg = 100)	Takeaway
Shreveport	$34,741	87.1	Best balance of pay vs. affordability
Baton Rouge	~$36,500	93.8	Higher pay, slightly higher costs
New Orleans	~$37,800	109.3	Highest pay, but much higher living costs
Lafayette	~$35,200	91.5	Comparable to Shreveport

Insider Tip: Don't just look at the salary number. A guard in New Orleans might make $3,000 more but pay $500 more per month in rent for a comparable apartment. Shreveport often wins on net income.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's ground this in reality. If you're earning the Shreveport median of $34,741, your monthly take-home pay (after taxes and deductions) will be roughly $2,200 - $2,300. This is a crucial starting point for your budget.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Single Person, Median Salary)

Expense Category	Estimated Cost	Notes
Take-Home Pay	~$2,250	Based on single filer, standard deduction
Rent (1BR Average)	$927	City-wide average
Utilities	$150	Electricity, water, internet
Car Payment/Insurance	$300	Essential in Shreveport; public transit is limited
Groceries	$250
Gas/Transport	$100
Health Insurance	$200	If not covered by employer
Miscellaneous	$200	Emergency fund, entertainment, etc.
Remaining	$123	A tight but manageable budget

Can they afford to buy a home?
On a single median salary, buying a home is a significant challenge but not impossible. The median home price in Shreveport is around $190,000. With a 20% down payment ($38,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% would be roughly $970/month (excluding taxes, insurance, and maintenance). This is only slightly higher than the average rent. However, saving $38,000 on a $34,741 salary is a long-term goal that requires strict budgeting, often a dual-income household, or years of saving. It's more feasible for a senior guard ($45,000+) or a couple where both are employed.

Where the Jobs Are: Shreveport's Major Employers

Shreveport's economy is anchored in healthcare, gaming, and education. The security needs are consistent across these sectors. Here are the key local employers and who they typically hire:

1. Willis-Knighton Health System: The largest private employer in the region. They have multiple campuses (Broadmoor, Bossier, etc.) and need 24/7 security for patient safety, asset protection, and access control. Hiring is steady, with a preference for guards with healthcare experience or de-escalation training. Hiring Trend: Consistent, with some turnover.

2. Christus Health Shreveport-Bossier: Another major healthcare system. Similar needs to Willis-Knighton, often with a focus on emergency department security and parking lot patrol. They often hire through third-party contracts (like Securitas or G4S) or directly. Hiring Trend: Steady, with a slight increase post-pandemic.

3. Louisiana Downs (Caesars Entertainment): The local horse racing track and casino. This is a high-profile site requiring a mix of unarmed and armed security (for cash handling). The environment is fast-paced and requires strong customer service skills. Hiring Trend: Stable, but competitive. Often hires for overnight and weekend shifts.

4. Bossier Parish Schools: School security is a growing field. While some positions are held by parish deputies, there are civilian security roles for monitoring, access points, and event security. Requires a clean background and often a state security license. Hiring Trend: Growing, especially with increased focus on school safety.

5. Shreveport Convention Center & Municipal Auditorium: Event-based work. These venues hire for concerts, conventions, and sports events. Pay is often hourly for specific events, not full-time. Great for supplemental income. Hiring Trend: Seasonal, dependent on the event calendar.

6. Third-Party Security Firms (Securitas, G4S, Allied Universal): These global companies have contracts all over Shreveport. They service everything from corporate offices to retail sites (like the Louisiana Boardwalk). They are often the best place for entry-level guards to get their foot in the door. Hiring Trend: Always hiring, especially for overnight shifts.

Insider Tip: Many local banks (like Red River Bank or B1Bank) and credit unions also hire dedicated security for their branches. These are often day shifts and offer a quieter work environment.

Getting Licensed in LA

Louisiana has clear, state-mandated requirements for security guards. The process is straightforward but has specific steps and costs.

Requirements:
You must be at least 18 years old, pass a criminal background check, and complete a 10-hour pre-assignment training course approved by the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office. This course covers state laws, use of force, and report writing.

Costs & Timeline:

1. Application & Background Check: $75 (paid to the state).
2. Training Course: $50 - $150 (varies by provider in Shreveport).
3. Total Upfront Cost: ~$125 - $225.
4. Timeline: From start to finish, you can typically get your license within 2-4 weeks. The training course can often be completed in a single day (or a weekend).

For Armed Guards: The requirements are stricter. You must:

• Hold a valid Louisiana security license for at least 180 days.
• Complete a 16-hour armed training course (run by a state-approved instructor).
• Pass a physical agility test and a written exam.
• Armed Training Cost: $250 - $400.

Tip: The Louisiana State Fire Marshal's website is the official source. Always verify your training provider is on their approved list. Many local community colleges (like Bossier Parish Community College) offer the pre-assignment course.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Shreveport is divided by I-20, with Shreveport to the west and Bossier City to the east. Your choice of neighborhood depends on your work location, budget, and lifestyle.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent (1BR Avg)	Best For
Broadmoor (Shreveport)	Established, quiet, close to Willis-Knighton & Southern University. Easy commutes to central jobs.	$850 - $1,100	Guards working in healthcare or education.
South Highlands (Shreveport)	Historic, walkable, near downtown jobs. More expensive but charming.	$950 - $1,300	Those who want walkability and a historic feel.
Bossier City (East of I-20)	More modern, newer apartments, close to Louisiana Downs and new retail.	$800 - $1,200	Great for jobs on the east side or at the casino.
West Shreveport / Stoner-Hill	More affordable, but further from major employers. Good for those with a reliable vehicle.	$700 - $900	Budget-conscious guards.
Downtown Shreveport	Urban, lofts, near the Convention Center and bars. Can be noisy.	$900 - $1,400	Those who love city life and have event-based jobs.

Commute Note: Traffic in Shreveport is generally light. A commute from Bossier City to Shreveport (or vice versa) across the bridge is typically 15-25 minutes. This flexibility allows you to live in a more affordable neighborhood while applying for jobs on either side of the river.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The security field in Shreveport rewards specialization and longevity. The 3% job growth means you need to be proactive about advancing your skills to move up.

Specialty Premiums:

• Armed Security: Adds $3 - $5/hour to your base pay. This is the single biggest pay bump.
• Executive Protection: Requires advanced training and networking. Opportunities are rare but pay significantly higher for high-profile clients.
• Fire & Life Safety: Certifications in fire watch or emergency response can make you valuable at industrial sites like plants.
• Supervisory/Management: Moving from a guard to a site supervisor can add $10,000 - $15,000 to your annual salary.

10-Year Outlook:
With the projected 3% growth, the market will see modest expansion. The biggest opportunities will be in healthcare security (due to aging population and facility growth) and corporate campus security (as companies expand). The rise of technology (CCTV, access control systems) means guards with tech literacy will have an edge. A dedicated guard who gets licensed, seeks armed posts, and moves into a lead or supervisor role within 5-10 years can realistically expect to earn $50,000+, placing them well above the median.

The Verdict: Is Shreveport Right for You?

Making the move is a personal decision. Here’s a balanced look at the pros and cons.

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $16.70/hour goes much further here than in a coastal city.	Lower Median Salary: The $34,741 pay ceiling is real; you must specialize to earn significantly more.
Stable Job Market: Healthcare and gaming provide consistent demand.	Slower Job Growth: The 3% growth means fewer new opportunities than in booming markets.
Manageable Commute: Less traffic stress means more time for yourself.	Limited Public Transit: A car is a necessity, adding to your monthly costs.
Southern Hospitality: A generally friendly, slower-paced environment.	High Poverty Rate: The city has socioeconomic challenges, which can impact some work sites.
Clear Career Path: With the right steps, advancement is straightforward.	Weather: Hot, humid summers and the potential for severe storms (hurricanes, tornadoes).

Final Recommendation:
Shreveport is an excellent choice for security guards who are starting out, are budget-conscious, or want a stable, predictable work environment. It's ideal if you value affordability over a high starting salary. It's also a good fit for guards with 2-5 years of experience looking to specialize (like getting armed) and see their income rise in a lower-cost area.

It may be a tougher fit for guards seeking rapid career growth or high-energy urban markets. If you're ambitious and want to jump to a $50,000 salary quickly, a larger market like Houston or Atlanta might offer a faster path, albeit at a much higher cost of living.

FAQs

Q: I'm licensed in another state. Can I transfer my license to Louisiana?
A: No. Louisiana requires you to complete their state-specific 10-hour pre-assignment training and apply for a new license. Your out-of-state experience will help in interviews, but you must get the LA license to work legally.

Q: How competitive is the job market for armed guards in Shreveport?
A: Moderately competitive. There are fewer armed positions than unarmed, but fewer qualified applicants as well. Having your armed license before applying gives you a significant advantage, especially for hospital and casino jobs.

Q: Are there union jobs for security guards in Shreveport?
A: Union representation is uncommon for security guards in this region. Most positions are non-union, direct-hire or through third-party contractors. Your pay and benefits are negotiated directly with the employer.

Q: What's the best way to find security jobs in Shreveport?
A: Start with local job boards like Indeed and LinkedIn. Also, check the career pages of the major employers listed above (Willis-Knighton, Christus, etc.). Networking with guards already working at target sites can also uncover openings that aren't publicly posted.

Q: Is Shreveport safe for a security guard to live in?
A: Yes, as in any city, you should be aware of your surroundings. The neighborhoods listed in this guide are generally considered safe for residents. Living close to your work site can minimize your exposure to higher-crime areas during your commute.