If you’re planning an event in Los Angeles County — whether it’s a private party, art gallery opening, corporate function, or large public gathering — one of the first questions that comes up is:
“How much does event security actually cost?”
The short answer:
Event security pricing in Los Angeles County typically ranges from $35 to $75 per hour per guard, depending on several factors like event size, location, risk level, and whether you need armed or unarmed security.
But the real answer is a bit more nuanced. In this guide, we’ll break down what affects event security costs, what you can realistically expect to pay in 2026, and how to choose the right level of coverage for your specific event.
What Factors Affect Event Security Pricing in Los Angeles County?
Event security is not a one-size-fits-all service. Pricing is influenced by a combination of operational and environmental factors, including:
1. Event Size and Guest Count
A small private gathering may only require one security officer, while a larger event could require a full team. More guests usually means more access points, more crowd movement, and more potential risk.
2. Location
Security costs can vary depending on where your event is held. High-traffic areas like Hollywood, Downtown LA, Beverly Hills, or West Hollywood often require a stronger security presence due to crowd density and local activity.
3. Duration of the Event
Most security companies charge hourly, with minimum booking requirements (usually 4 to 6 hours). A 10-hour corporate event will naturally cost more than a 3-hour gallery opening.
4. Risk Level
Events involving alcohol, high-profile guests, large crowds, or past security issues are considered higher risk and typically require more experienced officers.
5. Armed vs Unarmed Coverage
Armed security costs more due to licensing, insurance, and training requirements. Many private events in Los Angeles County do perfectly well with professional unarmed security.
Typical Event Security Rates in Los Angeles County (2026)
Here’s a realistic breakdown of current market rates:
Unarmed Event Security
- $35 – $50 per hour per guard
Best for: - Art galleries
- Corporate functions
- Private parties
- Brand activations
- Community events
Armed Event Security
- $55 – $75+ per hour per guard
Best for: - High-value assets
- VIP guests
- Large public events
- Situations with elevated risk
These rates usually include:
- Licensed security officer
- Uniform and equipment
- Liability insurance
- Basic reporting and communication
Armed vs Unarmed: Which Do You Really Need?
A common misconception is that armed security is always better. In reality, most events in LA County do not require armed guards.
Unarmed professional security provides:
- Strong visible presence
- Access control
- Crowd management
- De-escalation
- Incident prevention
Armed security is typically recommended when:
- There is a credible threat
- Valuable property is involved
- High-profile individuals are present
- The event involves large cash handling
In many residential and corporate settings, unarmed security is not only sufficient — it’s often the more appropriate and comfortable option for guests.
Small Events vs Large Events: Cost Differences
Small Private Events
Examples:
- Birthday parties
- Gallery openings
- Private dinners
- Business mixers
Typical coverage:
- 1 security officer
- 4–6 hour minimum
Estimated cost:
- $140 – $300 total
Medium-Size Events
Examples:
- Corporate functions
- Product launches
- Community gatherings
Typical coverage:
- 2–4 officers
- Multiple access points
Estimated cost:
- $400 – $1,200+ total
Large Events / Festivals
Examples:
- Public festivals
- Concerts
- Conferences
Typical coverage:
- Security team
- Supervisors
- Entry screening
Estimated cost:
- $2,000 – $10,000+ depending on scale
Real-World Event Scenarios in Los Angeles County
Here are a few common scenarios we see regularly:
Art Gallery Event – Hollywood
- 1 unarmed guard
- 6 hours
- Crowd monitoring and access control
Cost range: $210 – $300
Corporate Event – Downtown LA
- 2 unarmed guards
- 8 hours
- Guest check-in and perimeter monitoring
Cost range: $560 – $800
Private Party – Beverly Hills
- 1–2 guards
- 5 hours
- Alcohol service, guest screening
Cost range: $175 – $500
Why Professional Event Security Is Worth the Investment
Event security is not just about preventing problems — it’s about creating a calm, controlled environment so everyone can focus on enjoying the event.
Professional security helps with:
- Preventing unauthorized entry
- Managing guest flow
- De-escalating conflicts
- Protecting property
- Reducing liability for organizers
In many cases, just the presence of a professional security officer is enough to prevent incidents before they even start.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
When comparing quotes, be cautious of companies that:
- Offer extremely low rates
- Don’t carry proper insurance
- Use unlicensed personnel
- Provide no clear reporting or supervision
Low prices often come with high risk. In event security, professionalism, training, and reliability matter more than saving a few dollars per hour.
How to Get an Accurate Event Security Quote
The best way to determine your exact cost is through a custom assessment. A professional security company will typically ask:
- Event type and size
- Location
- Date and time
- Number of guests
- Alcohol service
- Any past security concerns
From there, they can recommend the appropriate coverage level and provide a transparent quote.
Final Thoughts
Event security costs in Los Angeles County vary widely, but most private and corporate events fall within the $35–$50 per hour per guard range for unarmed coverage.
The key is not finding the cheapest option — it’s finding the right level of security for your specific event.
When done correctly, professional event security doesn’t feel intrusive. It feels reassuring, organized, and seamless.
Request a Custom Event Security Quote
If you’re planning an event anywhere in Los Angeles County and want a clear, professional security assessment, the best first step is a quick consultation.
A proper quote ensures:
- The right number of guards
- The right level of coverage
- A safe and smooth event experience
Professional planning always beats last-minute fixes.
For more information about Event Security Services, visit our Los Angeles County Event page.
