Personal Security

Personal security has moved from a niche concern for the ultra-wealthy to a meaningful consideration for a broader range of high-net-worth individuals. Elevated public profiles, social media visibility, business disputes, and general crime trends in major cities have pushed more affluent families to invest in some level of personal protection. The spectrum of options — from enhanced home security to full executive protection — spans a very wide range of cost and sophistication.

Home security at the premium end goes beyond a Ring camera and an alarm panel. Professional security assessments, commercial-grade camera systems with offsite monitoring, reinforced entry points, and panic room installation represent a capital investment of $50,000–$300,000 for a serious installation. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance from firms like Allied Universal or ADT’s commercial division run $5,000–$20,000 annually depending on scope.

Executive protection — a trained security professional accompanying an individual in daily life — is the most significant cost tier. Experienced EP agents with law enforcement or military backgrounds charge $150,000–$300,000 annually as full-time employees, plus benefits, equipment, and vehicle costs. Part-time or situational EP for travel to higher-risk regions or public events can be arranged through firms like the Gavin de Becker & Associates or GardaWorld for $1,500–$5,000 per day.

Cybersecurity and digital protection have emerged as a parallel category. Personal cybersecurity services — covering family members’ devices, social media accounts, home networks, and online privacy — run $5,000–$20,000 annually from firms catering to high-net-worth clients. This spending is distinct from business cybersecurity and reflects the personal risk profile that comes with significant wealth. The Affluent Living pillar covers how security spending fits within the broader picture of what affluent households spend to protect and manage their lives.