How Much Do Security Guards Cost Per Hour in Ontario?
If you’re budgeting for security, one of the first questions is:
“How much do security guards cost per hour in Ontario?”
The answer depends on the type of service, the risk level, and the quality of the provider.
How Much Do Security Guards Cost Per Hour in Ontario?
In Ontario, most security guard services cost:
$20 to $35 per hour for standard coverage
$35 to $50+ per hour for higher-risk or specialized roles
These rates reflect what businesses typically pay—not just wages.
Reference for wages (not billing rates):
https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/wages-occupation/12990/ON
Why Security Guard Costs Are Higher Than Wages
A common misunderstanding is comparing guard wages to service pricing.
A guard may earn:
$17–$25 per hour
But the billing rate includes:
Wages
Insurance (liability coverage)
Training and licensing
Management and supervision
Scheduling and replacement coverage
Equipment and reporting systems
You’re paying for a complete service, not just a person.
What Affects Security Guard Hourly Rates in Ontario?
Several factors influence pricing.
1. Level of the Guard
Different roles come with different costs.
Standard Guards: basic monitoring and patrol
Enhanced Guards: trained for higher-risk environments
Supervisors or specialized roles: higher cost due to experience
2. Type of Site
The environment matters.
Low-risk sites (office buildings) → lower cost
High-risk sites (retail theft, construction, healthcare) → higher cost
3. Hours and Coverage
Pricing can vary based on schedule.
Daytime shifts may cost less
Overnight or 24/7 coverage may increase cost
Long-term contracts often have better rates
4. Location in Ontario
Urban areas may have slightly higher rates due to:
Demand
Labour availability
Operating costs
5. Training and Certifications
Guards with additional training may cost more.
Examples:
First Aid / CPR
Use of force training
Site-specific certifications
6. Union vs Non-Union Contracts
Some sites require unionized security.
Union roles often have higher base costs
Non-union services may offer more flexibility
Cheap vs Professional Security: What’s the Difference?
Choosing the lowest price can create risk.
Lower-cost services may result in:
Inconsistent staffing
Poor training
Lack of supervision
Weak reporting
Example
A property hires the cheapest option.
Result:
Guards miss patrols
Incidents go unreported
Problems increase
Now compare:
A professional service:
Follows structured patrols
Documents everything
Maintains accountability
The difference is not just cost—it’s performance.
What Are You Really Paying For?
When you hire security, you’re investing in:
Prevention of theft and damage
Visibility that deters problems
Response when incidents occur
Liability reduction
Real-World Example
A commercial plaza experiences vandalism overnight.
Two options:
Cheapest provider → inconsistent patrols, continued incidents
Structured service → regular patrols, visible presence, reduced incidents
The second option may cost more—but saves money long-term.
How to Choose the Right Security Service
Instead of asking only about price, ask:
Are guards trained and licensed?
Is there supervision and accountability?
Are reports detailed and consistent?
Is the service reliable?
Learn More About Security Guard Pricing
For a deeper breakdown of pricing and service options, visit:
/how-much-do-security-guard-services-cost-in-ontario
Understanding cost helps you choose the right level of protection for your property.
Final Answer
Security guard services in Ontario typically cost:
$20 to $35 per hour for standard roles
$35 to $50+ per hour for higher-risk or specialized services
The final price depends on:
Risk level
Type of site
Experience of the guard
Service quality
The goal is not just to spend less—it’s to get effective, reliable security that protects your property.