Security in Florida


Security Jobs in Florida differ by location and job duties, but there are many roles available with all levels of training and education.

About Florida

Nicknamed The Sunshine State, Florida is a hot spot for travel. This is largely due to its average weather temperatures. Average temperatures are around 82 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer and 60 degrees in the winter. The weather, popular spring break beaches, and family vacation spots like Disney World make Florida one of the top vacation destinations in the world.

Florida’s population is over 20 million. Jacksonville, Miami, Tampa, St. Petersburg, and Orlando are the highest populated cities in the state. Tallahassee, the state capital, comes in as the seventh-highest populated city. Overall, Florida has the fourth highest population in the United States.

Both full-time residents and visitors are likely attracted to the 1,200 miles of beach and 1,800 miles of coastline. Plus, Florida boasts more golf courses than any other state, and vacationers and residents can visit attractions from Sea World to Universal Studios or choose from a number of unique water experiences from snorkeling to deep-sea fishing.

Financial Aid for Florida Security Programs

Students in Florida have several options for which school to attend to complete a degree program in security, whether working toward a certificate to pursue a position as a security guard or looking for a program to prepare for work in the information technology area of security.

In addition to individual university or college scholarships and federal grants, Florida residents are also eligible to apply for the Bright Futures Scholarship, Department of Homeland Security Scholarship, Electronic Security Association Youth Scholarship, and Florida Sheriffs Association Scholarship.

Security Employment Outlook in Florida

The population and tourism industry in Florida has created growing opportunities for security professionals in the state. Whether working as a security professional for one of the major park attractions or in the field as security personnel at NASA, skilled professionals from all backgrounds and specializations have numerous opportunities for employment.

How much does armed security make in Florida? According to the BLS, there are currently 83,240 guard positions throughout the state with an average salary of $30,400 annually. Other possible positions for security personnel in this state include transportation security screeners, parking enforcement, correctional officers, and recreational protective service workers such as lifeguards. Nationally, positions for security guards and gaming surveillance officers are expected to grow at a rate of 15 percent.

LocationTotal Security Guard EmploymentAverage Salary
All of United States1,057,100$35,830
Florida83,240$30,400
BLS May 2021 employment of Security Guards by State

Unarmed and Armed Security Guard Requirements

What are the requirements to be an armed security guard in Florida? Private security is regulated by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Visi their website to find more details on becoming a security guard.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)


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