Lifeguarding as a Career: Is It Worth It in 2025?

You might ask yourself if being a lifeguard is still a good job choice in 2025. As you think about job security how much you’ll enjoy the work, and how much money you can make, you’ll want to look at the good and bad sides of lifeguarding before you jump in.

To start your journey as a lifeguard, you’ll need to take lifeguard classes. These teach you the must-know skills like how to save people in water, give first aid, and do CPR. Groups like the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) offer full training programs to get you ready for this tough but rewarding job.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what’s great about lifeguarding, what’s hard about it, and what the job might look like in the future in 2025.

Why Should Lifeguarding Be Your Career?

1. Lifeguards Are in High Demand

Recent reports show that there is a shortage of lifeguards in the entire American continent, which became a major issue in the entire country, hence, the many job opportunities rapidly increased. On-site lifeguard jobs such as those on public pool patrols, beaches, water parks, private clubs and similar establishments are never in downtime with the need for certified professionals.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for lifeguard professionals is still expected to grow at a modest rate, which is why this occupation is projected to still be a good choice of work in the year 2025 (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2021).

2. Good Pay and Benefits

Despite the fact that lifeguarding is mainly considered a seasonal job, many institutions now provide employees with the chance to work throughout the year in return for high wages. In general, a lifeguard can receive a monthly wage of $2000 – $3200 and in addition, the other benefits include the possibility of applying for health insurance, taking part in pension plans, and getting training for free.

For example, the lifeguards at the beach, considering their effective risks and duties, could expect further increase in salaries.

3. Room for Professional Development

Being a lifeguard no longer means you can only work in summer career options related to water and emergency facilities such as aquatics and emergency services are open for you. Quite a few of the current lifeguards have moved up in the job world and now they have such positions as:

• Head Lifeguard
• Aquatics Director
• Swim Instructor
• EMS or Firefighter

Not only does it help with thelifeguarding classes and certifications but it also increases the employees’ chances of making more money. Very few jobs can give the extreme feeling of personal satisfaction as life-saving jobs do.

 Lifeguards gain critical skills for:

• First Aid & CPR
• Emergency Response
• Risk Assessment
• Team Leadership

It’s not just the workplace where these skills become handy. They can be useful skills in life.

Challenges of Being a Lifeguard in 2025

Lifeguarding comes with many benefits, but it also has its drawbacks.

1. Physical Demands of the Job

Lifeguards need to stay in top shape to carry out rescues well. Spending hours in the sun staying watchful, and needing quick reactions makes this job hard on the body.

2. High Pressure and Stress

The weight of keeping swimmers safe can cause stress. Lifeguards must stay alert all the time, as quick choices can determine if someone lives or dies.

3. Work Part of the Year (In Some Cases)

Although many places now offer jobs all year, some positions still last for a season, which might not provide steady income year-round. Still, many lifeguards earn extra money through other part-time work or move to indoor pool jobs when it gets cold outside.

How to Become a Lifeguard in 2025

If you are one of those who are interested in a career in lifeguarding, then you have come to the right page. The following is a comprehensive guide that can be followed step by step:

1. Meet Basic Requirements

• Age: The majority of places would want a lifeguard to be at least 15 or 16 years old of age.
• Swimming Skills: A lifeguard needs to have super-strong swimming ability which he/she is expected to confirm through successful completion of a swim test (e.g., 300-yard swim, treading water, and retrieving a 10-pound brick).
• Physical Fitness: Clear vision, sharp hearing, and being in good shape are a necessity.

2. Enroll in Lifeguard classes

One must be trained and have a certificate to be a lifeguard certified by reputable bodies such as the American Lifeguard Association (ALA) that has accredited lifeguard training programs for those willing to join the profession.

During such courses, the following topics are covered:

• Water rescue techniques
• CPR/AED & First Aid
• Emergency action plans
• Surveillance and prevention strategies

3. Obtain Certification

After the training is complete, it will be required for you to take written and practical tests to get the lifeguard certification, which is usually valid for two years.

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4. Gain Experience

Apply for the early-stage job openings at your community pools or beaches to get entry-level experience. Most employers prefer those applicants who have got the experience, so to be one of the successful contenders, one should volunteer or work on a part-time basis.

5. Pursue Advanced Training

For a possibility of higher pay and better chances of a job improvement, other than just the basic certification, you should also think about other things like:

• Waterfront Lifeguarding
• Lifeguard Instructor
• Emergency Oxygen Administration

Future of Lifeguarding?

Pros:

• Job Security – There are a lot of lifeguards with a very good demand for their work.
• Good Pay & Benefits – The earnings and other advantages that come with the job are very satisfying.
• Skill Development – Getting excellent life-saving skills that can be of help not only in the workplace.
• Flexible Schedules – They are the perfect choice for students or people in search of part-time jobs.

Cons:

• ❌ Physically Demanding – A lot of precautions and fitness are necessary for this job.
• ❌ Emotional Stress – Handling emergencies can be intense. 
• ❌ Seasonal Limitations – Some positions are only available in summer. 

 Final Thoughts 

Lifeguarding is still a great career choice in 2025, particularly if you value water safety and helping others. With great training and lifeguard classes from good quality organizations such as the American Lifeguard Association, you can create a fun and fulfilling career with opportunity for growth. 

If you’re seeking a career with a balance of responsibility, skill-building, and making a true impact, lifeguarding could be the job for you. 

Are you ready for the challenge? Get signed up for a lifeguard certification course and join the workforce!