How Much Do Security Stadium Event Companies Make?

Security at stadiums and large-scale events is big business. From football matches to music festivals, every event relies on trained security staff to manage crowds, prevent incidents, and keep people safe. But how profitable is it for the companies that provide this service? And what kind of costs are involved?

This article breaks down how much stadium event security companies can earn, what they spend, how many staff are needed, and whether it’s a good business to get into.

What Factors Affect Revenue for Stadium Security Companies?

How much a stadium event security company makes depends on several factors. First, the size and frequency of the events matter—a sold-out Premier League match or headline concert brings in more revenue than a small community event. Second, pricing depends on the client contract—some are fixed-rate per hour, others by headcount or service package.

The level of security required also affects the quote. High-risk matches, VIP events, or ones with alcohol service usually mean more guards, more training, and more specialist roles like stewards, dog handlers, or licensed supervisors.

Established firms that win long-term contracts with major venues or sports clubs often have more reliable and recurring revenue. Smaller firms typically get project-based work.

How Many Security Staff Do Stadium Events Employ?

For large stadium events, staff numbers vary widely based on crowd size, event risk level, and licensing requirements. As a ballpark figure:

• A 20,000-seat stadium may require 100–200 stewards and licensed security staff

• A 50,000+ capacity stadium can need 300–600 personnel for major matches or concerts

• Staff include front-of-house stewards, search teams, response units, exit controllers, and sometimes specialist roles like medics or control room operators

UK regulations under the SGSA (Sports Grounds Safety Authority) and SIA licensing laws set minimum staff-to-attendee ratios, especially for football and licensed events.

Average Salary for Stadium Security Staff

Security pay at events can range based on role and qualifications:

• Event stewards (non-licensed): £10–£12/hour

• SIA licensed guards: £12–£15/hour

• Supervisors and team leaders: £15–£20/hour

• Specialist roles (e.g. dog handlers, response teams): Up to £25/hour

Pay rates are higher on weekends, during high-risk matches, or in London. Many event staff work on zero-hour or shift-based contracts, meaning no guaranteed hours but high flexibility.

What Factors Influence Pay?

Several factors affect pay within the sector:

• Location: London and major cities usually offer higher wages

• Event type: High-risk or premium events (boxing, concerts) often pay more

• Qualifications: SIA badge, first aid training, or NVQs lead to better roles

• Experience: Staff with experience in crowd control or public order usually earn more

• Shift length and timing: Evening and weekend rates tend to be higher, sometimes with bonuses for overnight or extended hours

What Other Costs Do Security Companies Face?

Event security companies operate on tight margins due to several unavoidable costs:

• Staff wages: The biggest outgoing. With 100+ staff at an event, even £12/hour quickly scales into thousands.

• Training and licensing: Covering SIA licences, DBS checks, first aid certification, and event-specific induction.

• Uniforms and PPE: Hi-vis vests, radios, earpieces, and safety gear.

• Insurance: Public liability and employer liability are mandatory and expensive.

• Transport and logistics: Moving staff to and from sites, especially if events end late or are in remote areas.

• Admin and payroll: Scheduling, HR, compliance, and managing staff rosters for large events.

These costs eat into profits unless the company operates at scale, negotiates well with venues, or secures recurring work.

Is a Security Company a Lucrative Business?

Done right, stadium and event security can be a solid, scalable business, but it isn’t always easy money.

Pros:

• Consistent demand: Events are back post-COVID, and security is essential by law.

• Recurring contracts: Venues prefer long-term partnerships over short-term providers.

• Scalability: With enough staff and coordination, companies can handle multiple events at once.

Cons:

• Tight margins: With high payroll and compliance costs, profits can be slim unless priced well.

• Staffing challenges: High turnover, licensing issues, and managing availability are constant problems.

• Upfront setup costs: Insurance, legal structure, accreditations and software add up fast.

Profitability is highest for firms that scale beyond just supplying “bodies on the ground” and build reputation, training standards, and premium service.

Final Thought

Security companies serving stadium and event sectors can make significant revenue—thousands per event—but they also shoulder large costs and complex logistics. The bigger the event, the higher the revenue, but also the more moving parts to manage. If you’re considering launching a company in this space, success depends on quality staffing, strong operational control, and smart bidding—not just showing up with guards in uniform.