How much does executive protection cost?
Executive protection does not have a single price, because no two assignments carry the same risk. The cost is driven by how many agents you need, for how long, whether they are armed, and how much advance work and logistics the assignment requires. A short single-agent engagement and a standing detail for a public figure sit at very different points on the scale.
What actually drives the cost
A few factors move the number more than anything else:
- Coverage. One agent for an afternoon is one thing. Around-the-clock protection is a rotation of several agents, not one person working impossible hours.
- Armed or unarmed. Armed agents carry more training, licensing, and liability, and that is reflected in the rate.
- Advance and intelligence. The work that prevents an incident happens before the principal arrives. Route planning, site advances, and protective intelligence take time, and that time is part of the cost.
- Transportation and vehicles. Secure transportation, and whether you need standard, executive, or armored vehicles, changes the figure.
Day rate, retainer, or project
Most protective work is priced one of three ways: a day rate for short or event-based assignments, a monthly retainer for ongoing coverage, or a project fee for a defined piece of work with a clear start and end. The right structure depends on whether your risk is a moment or a condition.
What to compare when quotes differ
When one quote is far below the others, check whether the proposals describe the same work. Compare how many agents are assigned and for what hours, their training and experience, whether advance work and planning are included, the insurance carried, and whether one person is being asked to cover a job that needs a team. A lower figure may reflect a narrower scope, so make sure you are comparing like for like.
How to get an accurate number
An accurate quote starts with a short, confidential conversation about the actual risk, the schedule, and the environment. We assess that first, then price the work to match it, so the figure you receive reflects the assignment you actually have.
TB Defense is based in Chicago and led by a Chicago Police officer with 20 years of service, with executive protection that works locally, nationally, and internationally. Get protected and we will scope and price the work for your situation.
Common questions
How much does executive protection cost?
There is no single price, because no two assignments carry the same risk. The cost is driven by how many agents you need, for how long, whether they are armed, and how much advance work and logistics the assignment requires.
How is executive protection priced?
Most protective work is priced one of three ways: a day rate for short or event-based assignments, a monthly retainer for ongoing coverage, or a project fee for a defined piece of work with a clear start and end.
What should I compare when quotes differ?
Compare what each proposal includes: how many agents and for what hours, their training and experience, whether advance work and planning are included, the insurance carried, and whether the job is staffed as a team. A lower figure may reflect a narrower scope, so confirm the proposals describe the same work.