Security Guard in Sioux Falls, SD

A Career Guide for Security Guards in Sioux Falls, South Dakota

If you're a security professional looking for a stable market with a low cost of living, Sioux Falls should be on your radar. As a local, I can tell you this is a city built on healthcare, finance, and agriculture—not a sprawling metropolis with constant crime waves. That means the security role here is often more about presence, customer service, and logistics than high-tension enforcement. It's a solid, steady gig for someone who values predictability.

Let's break down what your career and life would look like here, using hard data and local insights.

The Salary Picture: Where Sioux Falls Stands

First, let's talk numbers. The financial reality for a security guard in Sioux Falls is modest but livable, especially with the city's low cost of living. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), the median annual salary for a Security Guard is $35,088, which breaks down to an hourly median rate of $16.87. This is slightly below the national average of $36,140, but the difference is minimal.

The job market size is modest but stable, with approximately 412 security guard positions in the metro area. The 10-year job growth projection is 3%, which aligns with the national average and indicates steady demand rather than explosive growth. This isn't a boomtown for security; it's a reliable, predictable market.

Experience-Level Breakdown

Your earnings will naturally scale with experience and responsibility. Here’s a realistic breakdown based on local job postings and industry standards:

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary (Sioux Falls)	Key Responsibilities & Notes
Entry-Level	$30,000 - $33,000	Unarmed posts, basic patrol, access control. Often starts at large, corporate facilities.
Mid-Level	$34,000 - $38,000	Armed guard roles, shift supervisor, specialized sites (hospitals, data centers).
Senior/Expert	$39,000 - $45,000+	Site manager, corporate security director, training coordinator. Requires certifications and leadership.

Comparison to Other SD Cities

How does Sioux Falls stack up against the state's other major cities?

• Sioux Falls vs. Rapid City: Rapid City has a slightly lower median salary ($33,500), but a higher cost of living due to its tourism and location near the Black Hills. Your dollar goes further in Sioux Falls.
• Sioux Falls vs. Aberdeen: A smaller market with fewer opportunities. Salaries are comparable ($34,000), but job openings are less frequent.
• Sioux Falls vs. National Average: As noted, Sioux Falls pays $35,088 vs. the national $36,140. The 90.3 Cost of Living Index (US avg = 100) means you need to earn about 10.7% more nationally to maintain the same standard of living. In essence, you're better off financially in Sioux Falls than in a higher-paying city with a soaring cost of living.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let's get practical. A single filer earning the median of $35,088 (assuming standard deductions for 2024) would take home approximately $29,500 annually after federal, state, and FICA taxes, or about $2,458 per month.

Sample Monthly Budget Breakdown

With the average 1-bedroom rent in Sioux Falls at $884/month, here’s a realistic budget:

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Income	$2,458	Post-tax take-home
Rent (1-BR)	$884	Average city-wide
Utilities	$150	Electricity, gas, internet
Groceries	$300	For one person
Health Insurance	$250	If not employer-sponsored
Car Payment/Insurance	$350	Sioux Falls is car-dependent
Fuel	$100	Average commute
Misc. & Savings	$424	Discretionary, debt, or savings
Total Expenses	$2,458	Leaves $0 buffer

Insider Tip: This budget is tight. A dual-income household or a side gig (like part-time security at events) is common. Many guards work overtime at critical infrastructure sites (e.g., data centers) to boost income.

Can They Afford to Buy a Home?

With a median home price in Sioux Falls around $285,000, it's challenging on a single income of $35,088. A 20% down payment would be $57,000, and a monthly mortgage payment would likely exceed $1,500 (including taxes and insurance)—over 60% of your take-home pay. This is not feasible. Homeownership is realistically a long-term goal for security guards here, often requiring a spouse's income, significant savings, or promotion to a management role ($40,000+).

Where the Jobs Are: Sioux Falls's Major Employers

The security job market here is tied to the city's economic pillars: healthcare, finance, and agriculture. Here are the key employers to target, along with hiring trends.

1. Sanford Health & Avera Health: These are the two healthcare giants in Sioux Falls. They hire security for hospitals, clinics, and corporate campuses. Trend: Steady hiring, especially for 24/7 coverage. Roles often involve de-escalation, patient safety, and asset protection. Sanford's downtown campus and Avera's McKennan Hospital are major sites.

2. Sioux Falls Police Department (Private Contract Divisions): While not direct city employees, many guards work for firms that contract with the city for events, parking, and public spaces. Trend: Event-based work is seasonal but lucrative (e.g., concerts at the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center).

3. Citi & Midco: Citi's massive operations center and Midco's (a major telecom) facilities are prime targets. Trend: High demand for corporate security, often requiring higher clearance and technical aptitude. These are stable, long-term gigs with good benefits.

4. Smithfield Foods & Wholestone Farms: The city's major meatpacking plants. Trend: Constant need for overnight guards, gate control, and logistics security. Pay can be slightly above median due to shift differentials and the industrial environment.

5. Sioux Falls Airport (FSD): The airport authority and its contractors hire for terminal security, perimeter patrol, and customer service. Trend: Relies heavily on TSA-certified guards. With airport expansion, opportunities are growing.

6. Augustana University & Southeast Technical Institute: College campuses require 24/7 coverage for dorms, parking lots, and events. Trend: Seasonal peaks during the school year and summer programs. Good for those who prefer a less intense environment.

7. Major Retail & Shopping Centers: The Empire Mall and large retail corridors (41st Street, Louise Avenue) contract with security firms for loss prevention and patrol. Trend: High turnover, but a common entry point. Often leads to in-store security roles.

Getting Licensed in SD

South Dakota's requirements are straightforward but mandatory. The South Dakota Department of Public Safety is the licensing body.

• Unarmed Guard: No state license is required, but most employers want a high school diploma/GED, a clean background check, and often a driver's license. Cost: $0 (employer covers training). Timeline: 1-2 weeks for onboarding.
• Armed Guard: Requires a South Dakota Armed Security Guard License. You must complete 8 hours of classroom training from a certified instructor and pass a firearms proficiency exam. The state fee is $50 for the first two years. Timeline: 2-4 weeks to complete training and get licensed.
• Key Insight: Employers like Sanford and Citi often prefer or require armed guards for certain shifts, even if not legally mandated. Getting certified will significantly boost your earning potential and job options.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Sioux Falls is divided by the Big Sioux River, with distinct areas. Your choice depends on commute and lifestyle.

1. Downtown (Central Sioux Falls):

   • Rent: $950 - $1,200 for a 1-BR.
   • Commute: Walkable or short drive to major employers like Citi, Sanford's downtown campus, and the airport.
   • Lifestyle: Urban, older buildings, walkable to restaurants and events. Best for single guards who want to be in the action.

2. West Side (41st Street / Ellis Road Corridor):

   • Rent: $800 - $950 for a 1-BR.
   • Commute: Easy access to the Empire Mall, Midco, and the airport. Major arterial roads.
   • Lifestyle: Suburban, modern apartments, family-friendly. A popular choice for guards working at retail, telecom, or the airport.

3. South Side (26th Street / Minnesota Avenue):

   • Rent: $750 - $900 for a 1-BR.
   • Commute: Close to Avera McKennan Hospital, Augustana University, and Smithfield Foods.
   • Lifestyle: Mix of older homes and apartments. Quieter, with good access to parks. Ideal for healthcare or campus security jobs.

4. Northeast Side (Arrowhead Parkway):

   • Rent: $850 - $1,000 for a 1-BR.
   • Commute: Growing area with new developments. Commute to downtown is 10-15 minutes via I-29.
   • Lifestyle: Newer, more upscale apartments. Less traffic, but more isolated. Good for those working at the airport or newer corporate parks.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 3% job growth indicates you need a plan to advance. Here's the path:

• Specialty Premiums: Armed certification adds $2-$3/hour. Specializing in healthcare security (de-escalation training) or corporate security (IT awareness) can lead to $38,000-$42,000.
• Advancement Paths: The typical ladder is: Guard → Shift Lead (supervising 2-3 guards) → Site Manager (overseeing a facility) → Corporate Security Manager. The move from guard to manager often requires additional education (e.g., an associate's degree in criminal justice) or significant experience.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 3% growth, expect ~425 jobs in 2034. The city's economic diversification (tech, finance) means more corporate security roles will emerge. Unarmed guards may face automation at simple posts (e.g., automated gates), making armed or specialized skills more valuable. Long-term viability is good for those who specialize.

The Verdict: Is Sioux Falls Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Low Cost of Living (Index 90.3)	Lower Median Salary ($35,088)
Stable Job Market (412 jobs, 3% growth)	Slower Career Advancement
Short Commutes (Avg. 15-20 mins)	Car-Dependent City
Strong Healthcare & Corporate Base	Limited Nightlife/Urban Culture
Clean, Safe, Family-Friendly City	Winters are Long and Cold

Final Recommendation: Sioux Falls is an excellent choice for a security guard who prioritizes stability, affordability, and quality of life over high-octane excitement or rapid salary growth. It's ideal for: career starters, those with families, or professionals seeking a balance. If you're looking for the highest possible salary or a bustling international metropolis, look elsewhere. But for a solid, manageable career in a friendly city, Sioux Falls delivers.

FAQs

1. Do I need my own firearm as an armed guard?
No, most employers provide them. However, you must be proficient with the specific model you're assigned. You can use your own during training, but the company's policy dictates on-duty equipment.

2. How competitive is the job market?
Moderately competitive. Entry-level posts get applicants, but specialized roles (armed, corporate) are less crowded. Having a clean record and reliable transportation is your biggest advantage.

3. What's the weather like for a patrol guard?
Brutal in winter. You will need a reliable vehicle with good tires and a winter survival kit. Many posts are indoor, but perimeter patrol requires proper cold-weather gear. Summers are mild and pleasant.

4. Can I work for the city police as a guard?
Not directly. Sioux Falls PD handles law enforcement. However, you can work for private firms contracted by the city for events, parking, or transit security. It's a good way to network with local law enforcement.

5. Is overtime common?
Yes, especially at 24/7 facilities (hospitals, data centers, utilities). It's not guaranteed but can add $3,000-$5,000 to your annual income. Ask about overtime policies during interviews.

Data Sources: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) for Sioux Falls MSA; South Dakota Department of Public Safety (Licensing); Zillow and ApartmentList for rent estimates; MIT Living Wage Calculator for cost-of-living adjustments.