Finding the right security guard company in California can be tricky. With fast-growing neighborhoods, busy commercial hubs, and constant event activity, many companies appear similar on the surface. What truly matters is professionalism, real experience, and a proven commitment to keeping people safe. In a state with diverse cities, large events, and high-traffic areas, strong local presence and hands-on experience make all the difference in how effectively a security team can respond. This guide highlights the top 10 security guard companies in California so you can make an informed decision with confidence.
List 10 Best Security Guard Companies in California
Choosing the right security guard company in California can feel overwhelming with so many options available. That’s why we’ve put together this list of trusted security companies. We evaluated multiple providers based on licensing, training quality, client reviews, service reliability, and guard availability. We also paid attention to what each company does best, whether it’s event security, commercial patrols, residential protection, or armed guard services, so the list reflects a variety of real needs.
The table below gives you a quick look at the important details of the top 10 security guard companies in California, including rates, minimum contract hours, whether they offer armed guards, response times, and what they’re best for. Having all this information in one place makes it easier to compare and figure out which company is the best fit for your property or business.
| Company Name | Hourly Rate (2025 est.) | Min. Contract | Armed Guards? | Response Time (Emergency) | Best For | Yelp/Google Rating | Veteran-Owned? | 24/7 Dispatch | Similar Service on Our Site |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Professional Security Guard Inc. | $35–$50 | 4 hrs | Yes | <15 min | Commercial & Residential | 4.7 | Yes | Yes | Professional Security Services |
| Assertive Security Services | $30–$45 | 4 hrs | Yes | 20 min | Events & Nightlife | 4.5 | No | Yes | Event Security |
| Securitas Security Services USA, Inc | $32–$48 | 6 hrs | Yes | 20 min | Corporate & Industrial | 4.6 | No | Yes | Corporate Security |
| G4S Secure Solutions | $31–$46 | 4 hrs | Yes | 20–25 min | Large Commercial & Industrial | 4.5 | No | Yes | Industrial Security |
| American Shine Security Services | $28–$42 | 4 hrs | No | 25 min | Residential & Retail | 4.5 | No | Yes | Residential Security |
| Off Duty Officers, Inc. | $30–$44 | 4 hrs | Yes | 20 min | Events & Corporate Security | 4.6 | Yes | Yes | Event Security |
| Safety Zone Security, Inc. | $29–$43 | 4 hrs | Yes | 25 min | Commercial & Industrial | 4.5 | No | Yes | Industrial Security |
| Fast Guard Security | $28–$40 | 4 hrs | No | 30 min | Small Businesses & Retail | 4.5 | No | Yes | Business Security |
| Nob Hill Security | $30–$45 | 4 hrs | Yes | 20 min | Corporate & Construction Sites | 4.6 | No | Yes | Corporate Security |
| Galaxy Security | $29–$44 | 4 hrs | Yes | 20–25 min | Residential & Commercial | 4.5 | No | Yes | Residential Security |
Professional Security Guard Inc.
Professional Security Guard Inc. is one of those California security companies people highly recommend simply because they’re reliable and easy to work with. They handle both armed and unarmed guard services, and their four-hour minimum is great if you need someone on short notice without being locked into a long contract. They also offer a full range of services, including armed and unarmed guards, mobile patrol, event security, fire watch, construction site security, VIP security, and executive protection.
Their guards are fully BSIS-certified and well-trained, and the company serves many parts of California. The team is experienced in a variety of settings, including residential neighborhoods, HOAs, commercial buildings, retail locations, and temporary or special events.
What usually stands out to clients is how quickly they move when something urgent happens. Their team can respond in under 15 minutes, and they’ve got a 24/7 dispatch centre that actually answers the phone. They also keep supervisors in the field, which helps make sure the guards stay sharp and consistent.
Many customers say the guards show up looking professional, communicate well, and generally make people feel at ease. It’s a big reason the company holds a strong 4.7 rating on Yelp and Google. They work with a mix of commercial sites, residential areas, and businesses that just want a steady, dependable security presence.
They’re also veteran-owned, and you can feel that influence in how they approach training and day-to-day operations, with clear procedures and a calm response to emergencies.
Main Services
- Commercial Security
- Security Patrol Services
- Firewatch Services
- Unarmed and Aramed Security Services
- VIP Security Services
- Construction Site Security
- Executive Protection
- 24-Hour Personal Security
- Armed Security
- Private Security
Contact Details
Phone: 877-626-8723
Email: [email protected]
If you’re looking for security that won’t leave you guessing, Professional Security Guard Inc. delivers consistent, reliable protection.
Assertive Security Services
Assertive Security Services is one of the top security companies in California. They work with both armed and unarmed guards, and the four-hour minimum makes things simple, especially if you’re running an event or just need someone on-site for a short window.
Most people say the company is pretty responsive when it comes to providing security teams in California. Their emergency response time is usually around 20 minutes, and they keep a round-the-clock dispatch, so you’re not left hanging if something comes up late at night.
They hold a 4.5 rating on Yelp, and the comments are mostly about the guards being steady and good at reading the room, especially in nightlife and event settings where things can shift quickly. They’re not veteran-owned, but they put in great effort into training their teams well.
Securitas Security Services USA, Inc.
Securitas is also one of the best security service providers in California, so you’ll see their guards pretty much everywhere, including office buildings, industrial sites and warehouses. Because of their size, they offer a wide mix of services, including armed guards, and their minimum contract is usually about six hours.
They’re generally steady when it comes to response time, usually around 20 minutes in emergencies. They do have round-the-clock dispatch, which helps if you’re managing a site that never really shuts down. Most people who work with them say the communication is decent once everything is set up, although it can feel a bit “corporate,” which isn’t surprising given their scale.
Their online reviews on Yelp and Google average around 4.6, and the comments are mostly about professionalism and consistency. They’re not veteran-owned, but they put a lot into training and keeping things by the book, which tends to work well for such companies.
G4S Secure Solutions
G4S is another major security company in California, similar in scale to Securitas, and you’ll run into their guards at bigger commercial and industrial properties. They handle both armed and unarmed security, and their minimum contract is usually around four hours, which gives them a bit more flexibility than some of the larger firms.
Their emergency response time is typically in the 20–25 minute range. They also run 24/7 dispatch, so if you manage a site that’s busy around the clock, they’re set up for that. A lot of their clients mention that G4S is pretty good with routine procedures, including maintaining logs, check-ins and incident reports, so they work well for places where documentation actually matters.
Their average rating sits around 4.5, and most of the feedback is about guards being dependable and familiar with high-traffic or higher-risk environments. They’re not veteran-owned, but they do put a lot of effort into training, especially for industrial and large commercial operations where safety rules are strict.
American Shine Security Services
American Shine is one of those smaller California security companies that people usually call for apartments, gated communities, or little retail spots. They don’t do armed work; it’s mostly unarmed guards, and the setup is pretty simple, with a four-hour minimum.
Judging from what people say about them, they’re usually easy to deal with. If you call them, someone actually picks up, and their response time is usually around 25 minutes, which is decent for a company of their size. They run a 24/7 dispatch line, so you’re not stuck waiting if something weird happens at night.
Their reviews land around 4.5 stars on Yelp and Google, and a lot of the comments are about guards being polite and not trying too hard to act like cops. This approach works well for residential areas and small shops where you don’t want someone overly intense standing at the door.
Off Duty Officers, Inc.
Off Duty Officers is mostly called in for events or corporate setups. They cover both armed and unarmed guards, and the four-hour minimum is pretty handy if you just need coverage for a few hours.
Reviews on Google and Yelp show that they actually show up on time and don’t make a big deal out of being there. Their emergency response time is usually around 20 minutes, and they maintain 24/7 dispatch, so you can reach someone anytime something pops up.
Reviews hover around 4.6 stars, with clients saying the guards are professional but approachable and they know how to keep things under control.
If you’re running an event, a corporate site, or just need someone to handle a crowd, Off Duty Officers does the job.
Safety Zone Security, Inc.
Safety Zone Security, Inc. provides both armed and unarmed guard services across California and is known to respond quickly. Their guards handle patrols, site guarding, and larger security needs depending on what’s required.
They run a round-the-clock command centre and can dispatch guards at any time, which is helpful for businesses, warehouses, or properties that never really close. Since they operate all over the state, clients like the fact that they get consistent coverage without having to deal with multiple companies.
The company takes a hands-on approach rather than a corporate-cold style. Guards are uniformed, licensed, and trained, with a focus on detailed site preparation and doing the job right. For small to mid-size facilities like retail, offices, warehouses, and residential complexes, that straightforward approach works well.
Fast Guard Security
Fast Guard Security is the kind of company you call when you just need someone reliable at a small business or retail spot. They stick to unarmed guards, and the four-hour minimum makes it easy if you only need coverage for a short period.
Their response time is usually around 30 minutes, and they have 24/7 dispatch support, which is nice if something pops up after hours. From what people say, the guards are professional but not stiff. They keep an eye on things and make people feel safe, but don’t overdo it or make the place feel tense.
They’re not veteran-owned, but the training seems solid enough to handle everyday situations and keep a steady presence. Reviews say they’re dependable, show up on time, and don’t make things complicated, which is exactly what people usually expect from a decent security company.
Nob Hill Security
Nob Hill Security is a good choice if you need guards at offices or construction sites. They have armed guards, and the minimum is four hours, so you don’t have to book them for a whole day if you don’t need to.
Their emergency response time is about 20 minutes, and they have 24/7 dispatch, so someone is always available if something comes up. The guards are professional and stay calm. They handle problems without making a fuss and keep things under control.
They are not veteran-owned, but the team knows how to work in offices and construction sites. Reviews say they are reliable and consistent. People like that the guards just do the job and don’t create extra stress.
Galaxy Security
Galaxy Security mostly works with homes and businesses. They have armed guards, and you can hire them for as little as four hours, which is handy if you don’t need all-day coverage.
Their response time is around 20–25 minutes, and they have 24/7 dispatch. They stay alert but don’t make people nervous or act overbearing.
They’re not veteran-owned, but the team knows how to handle both residential and commercial properties. People say they’re reliable and consistent. The guards make sure everything stays safe without stressing out residents or employees.
Benefits of Hiring a Local Security Guard Company in California
Sometimes, the best part of hiring security isn’t the flashy uniforms or the latest technology. It’s simply the fact that the team is local. Here’s what that actually means for you.
Faster Response Times
Local guards are nearby. They don’t have long drives. So if something happens, they can get there quicker. That matters in an emergency and even for small incidents that could grow.
Expertise in Local Crime and Regulations
A local company knows local crime patterns and California rules. They understand what problems show up where, and what laws and permits apply. That makes their advice and their response more useful.
Personalized Customer Service
Local firms usually treat you like a real client. They understand your site, your staff, and what matters the most to you. That means they design their patrols plans, reports, and schedules to fit you.
Stronger Community Ties
Local guards see the area every day. They know nearby businesses, residents, and trends. That connection helps them notice odd things faster and work with the community when needed.
Better Protection
Because they know the site and the neighborhood, local guards can spot risks early. Their regular presence is also a deterrent, as people think twice before doing anything when someone is watching.
Cultural Sensitivity
Local teams get the local culture. They know how to interact with residents and visitors in a way that respects the community. That helps avoid misunderstandings and keeps interactions calm and professional.
How to Pick the Right Local Security Company in California
Choosing a security company isn’t as complicated as it may seem. A few straightforward checks can help you figure out who’s reliable and who isn’t.
Make Sure They’re Properly Licensed
Before anything else, make sure the company is properly BSIS (Bureau of Security & Investigative Services) licensed in California. The guards should have active guard cards, and if you need armed protection, the right firearm permits. A good company won’t hesitate to show this.
Look at Their Experience
Every property is different, and not all companies handle the same type of work. Some focus on residential sites, others handle events, and some work mainly with businesses. Pick a company that already understands your type of environment, as it usually means a smoother setup.
Check Reviews or Ask for References
It helps to listen to people who’ve already worked with them. Look at reviews or ask for references. You’ll get a sense of how dependable the guards are, how they communicate, and whether the company handles issues quickly.
Ask About Their Training
Good guards don’t just rely on past experience, they focus a lot on their training as well. Ask how the company trains its team and how often they refresh those skills. Regular training usually leads to guards who are more alert, confident, and steady when something unexpected happens.
How Professional Security Guard Inc. Helps Keep Sites Secure in California
Professional Security Guard Inc. takes a hands-on approach to security, which is why many businesses and residential communities rely on them. They focus on making sure every site gets the right kind of protection instead of a “one-size-fits-all” plan.
Their guards go through steady training, especially for situations that require quick action, things like handling disturbances, spotting risks early, and managing access to a property. Because they offer both armed and unarmed guards, clients can choose what fits their needs without paying for services they don’t actually need.
Another thing people appreciate is their response time. Their team moves fast when something comes up, and their 24/7 dispatch helps make sure nothing gets ignored. They also check in with clients often, adjust guard schedules when needed, and keep communication easy.
Overall, they aim to make security feel simple and dependable. They focus on showing up on time, staying alert, and keeping the environment calm, whether it’s an office building, a neighborhood, or a retail space.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, choosing a security company is really about finding people you feel comfortable with. The company should understand your property, respond when you need them, and communicate in a way that doesn’t make things harder. Local teams usually do this well because they know the area and the kinds of problems that come up.
If you check their license, look at a few reviews, and ask a couple of questions about training, you’ll usually get a good sense of whether they’re the right fit. Once you find the right team, everything feels a bit easier and safer, and you don’t have to think about security all the time.
FAQs
What Types of Businesses Usually Need Security?
Offices, apartment buildings, stores, and warehouses use security the most, but plenty of smaller places do too. It really comes down to whether the property has people, equipment, or activity that needs watching.
Do Local Security Companies Work 24/7?
Many do, but not all of them. Some have full-time dispatch and can send help anytime, while others only cover the hours you book. It’s something worth asking early on.
How Much Does Security Cost In California?
Rates depend on the type of guard and the length of the shift. Armed guards cost more than unarmed, and busy areas can be a bit higher. The ranges in the comparison table line up with what most companies charge.
Why Hire A Local Company?
Local teams know the area, so they usually respond faster and understand what kind of issues arise in nearby neighborhoods. They’re also easier to reach when you need to make changes.
Can I Hire Security For A Short Time?
Yes. Many companies offer short-term coverage for events, projects, or days when you just need extra help. You usually only need to meet their minimum hours.
