Security Guards vs Mobile Surveillance Units: Which Offers Better Value in 2025?

Comparing security guards vs mobile surveillance units? When it comes to protecting your property, business, or job site, understanding the true cost of security is essential. Many businesses assume that hiring a 24/7 security guard is the gold standard — but in 2025, technology has made it possible to get smarter security at a fraction of the cost.

 

The High Cost of Hiring a 24/7 Security Guard With a Vehicle

Hiring a licensed, trained security guard with a patrol vehicle for full-time coverage is a major investment. The average hourly rate ranges between $30 and $50 per hour depending on your location, risk level, and whether the guard is armed.

To maintain round-the-clock coverage (168 hours per week), here’s what you can expect to pay:

  • Weekly Cost: $5,000 – $8,500
  • Monthly Cost: $20,000 – $34,000

This includes wages, insurance, fuel, equipment, and management overhead. And don’t forget — guards are human. They take breaks, need sleep, and can miss details.

The Smarter Choice: Mobile Surveillance Units That Never Blink!

Mobile surveillance units (also called surveillance trailers or security towers) provide a 24/7 live video security presence — without the high labor costs. These advanced systems include high-resolution cameras, night vision, motion sensors, and remote access. Best of all, they:

  • Don’t take breaks
  • Don’t blink or look away
  • Are always alert and recording
  • Provide valuable video evidence in case of incidents

Cost of a Mobile Surveillance Unit in 2025:

  • Monthly Rental: $1,500 – $3,000
  • With Remote Monitoring: $2,000 – $4,000

That’s up to 80% more affordable than hiring on-site guards — with better consistency and a complete video record if an investigation is needed.

Cost Comparison: Security Guards vs Mobile Surveillance Units

Service Type

Monthly Cost

24/7 Constant Coverage

Human Error

Video Evidence

Maintenance

Security Guard w/ Vehicle

$20,000-$34,000

NO, even with 24/7 service

YES (can occur)

NO (unless paired with cameras)

High

Mobile Surveillance Unit

$2,000-$4,000

YES

NO

YES¸ HD footage

Low

Why Are More Businesses Are Switching From Security Guards To Mobile Surveillance Technology?

Whether you’re securing a construction site, warehouse, retail location, or commercial property, mobile surveillance units offer unmatched reliability and affordability. They’re:

  • Always watching
  • Highly visible deterrents
  • Available in remote or high-risk areas
  • Backed by optional live remote monitoring and instant alerts

Need Cost-Effective Security? We Can Help!

We specialize in delivering affordable, reliable, and 100% vigilant mobile surveillance solutions across the USA. Contact us today for a free quote and see how much you could save by switching from guards to smarter surveillance.