How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Bodyguard? A 2025 Guide to Personal Protection Services

In an era where personal safety is more important than ever, the demand for private security and bodyguard services continues to rise. Whether you’re a high-profile celebrity, business executive, politician, or simply someone concerned about safety, the idea of hiring a bodyguard may have crossed your mind. But just how much does it cost to hire a bodyguard?

The answer is far from simple. The cost can vary wildly depending on factors such as the level of threat, type of service required, location, duration, and the bodyguard’s qualifications. In this in-depth 2025 guide, we’ll explore all aspects of bodyguard pricing—from one-day hires to full-time residential protection—and help you determine what kind of protection suits your needs and budget.

What Is a Bodyguard?

A bodyguard (or close protection officer) is a trained professional who provides physical protection to individuals who may be exposed to elevated personal risk. This can include:

• Executives and business owners

• Celebrities, influencers, and entertainers

• Politicians or diplomats

• High-net-worth individuals (HNWIs)

• Witnesses in legal cases

• Victims of threats, harassment, or stalking

Bodyguards differ from standard security guards in both training and function. While security guards may monitor premises, bodyguards actively manage threats in real-time and stay close to the person they are protecting.

Average Cost to Hire a Bodyguard in 2025

🚨 High-risk clients or international travel can increase rates by 2–3x.

Key Factors That Affect Bodyguard Pricing

The cost of hiring a bodyguard isn’t standardized. Here’s a detailed look at what determines how much you’ll pay:

1. Level of Threat

• Low Risk: General safety, crowd control, light monitoring.

• Medium Risk: Business competitors, stalkers, angry fans.

• High Risk: Threats from organized crime, political violence, or kidnapping.

The higher the threat level, the more experienced (and expensive) the bodyguard must be.

2. Armed vs. Unarmed

• Unarmed bodyguards are ideal for general protection and crowd management.

• Armed bodyguards are trained to use firearms and often require additional licenses and insurance.

3. Duration of Service

• Hourly or daily hires are more expensive per hour but ideal for events.

• Monthly or annual contracts offer better long-term rates.

4. Location

• Urban areas (e.g., NYC, LA, London) command higher rates due to demand and cost of living.

• International protection requires travel expenses, accommodations, and special licenses.

5. Bodyguard’s Background and Skills

• Former military, special forces, or law enforcement backgrounds = premium rates.

• Multilingual bodyguards, medical training, and tactical driving add value.

Different Types of Bodyguard Services and Their Costs

1. Personal Bodyguard

Provides one-on-one protection during daily activities, business travel, or events.

• Unarmed: $30 – $70/hr

• Armed: $50 – $150/hr

• Premium service: $1,500 – $3,000/day

2. Executive Protection

Tailored for CEOs, politicians, or high-net-worth clients. Includes risk assessments, travel planning, and corporate security logistics.

• Cost: $20,000 – $75,000/month

• Often involves a team, not just a single guard

3. Celebrity Protection

Designed to manage paparazzi, fans, and stalkers.

• Rates: $1,000 – $3,000/day

• May include decoy vehicles, coordinated media handling, and VIP transport

4. Residential or 24/7 Protection

For individuals who need round-the-clock security at home.

• Requires multiple rotating shifts or live-in teams

• Cost: $100,000 – $500,000+ annually

5. Event or Venue Security

For weddings, concerts, political rallies, or red carpet events.

• Price per event: $500 – $5,000+

• Depends on crowd size, perceived risk, and required manpower

Hidden Costs You Might Not Expect

Hiring a bodyguard often involves additional expenses:

🚗 Bulletproof vehicles or security drivers are extra—but often necessary for VIPs.

Full-Time Bodyguard: What Does It Actually Cost?

Want a dedicated professional guarding your life 24/7? Here’s an estimate.

If you need multiple guards or rotating 24/7 coverage, expect to double or triple the numbers.

Private Security Firms vs. Independent Bodyguards

✅ Security Firm

• Background-checked and licensed

• Insurance is often included

• Emergency replacements available

❌ Independent Contractor

• May be cheaper initially

• Less oversight and accountability

• You handle payroll, vetting, and insurance

🔐 For high-risk clients or extended protection, hiring through a reputable agency is safer and more reliable.

How to Hire a Bodyguard (Step-by-Step)

1. Assess Your Needs

   • Are you seeking event coverage, full-time protection, or travel escort?

2. Determine Risk Level

   • Talk to a security consultant or firm for threat analysis.

3. Set a Budget

   • Realistic rates range from $5,000/month to $250,000+/year depending on service.

4. Choose an Agency

   • Look for licensed, insured, and experienced providers with verifiable testimonials.

5. Interview Candidates

   • Ask about certifications, combat/medical training, and real-world experience.

6. Create a Contract

   • Define scope, duration, confidentiality, and emergency response procedures.

Is It Worth Hiring a Bodyguard?

✅ When It Makes Sense

• You’ve received credible threats

• You are regularly in public or media spotlight

• You are traveling to high-risk regions

• You are handling sensitive or high-value assets

❌ When It Might Not Be Necessary

• General anxiety about crime (consider home security upgrades)

• Limited public exposure

• Temporary risks that can be handled by event security

🧠 Peace of mind is priceless—but ensure you’re not overpaying for unnecessary protection.

Tips for Reducing the Cost of Bodyguard Services

• Hire part-time or hourly instead of 24/7

• Use surveillance and smart home tech to supplement live guards

• Negotiate monthly contracts for long-term savings

• Combine services (e.g., driver + security)

• Group coverage for family or company execs can be more efficient

FAQs About Hiring a Bodyguard

🔐 Do bodyguards need to be licensed?

Yes, in most jurisdictions. Always ask for credentials, licenses, and insurance documents.

💼 Can a bodyguard also be my driver?

Absolutely! Many professionals are trained in defensive and tactical driving, especially for high-risk clients.

🌍 Can I hire a bodyguard for international travel?

Yes, but you’ll be responsible for travel costs, lodging, and international legal compliance.

💸 What’s the cheapest way to hire a bodyguard?

Hire unarmed, part-time, and local. Limit services to specific events or hours rather than full days.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does it cost to hire a bodyguard in 2025?
You’re looking at anywhere from $300 for a single event to $500,000+ per year for elite-level, round-the-clock security.

The price reflects the complexity and seriousness of the service. You’re not just paying for physical presence—you’re investing in experience, readiness, risk assessment, and most importantly, peace of mind.