How much does a Lifeguard make?
Lifeguard is a rewarding job that combines physical activity with the important task of ensuring safety at water locations. The average yearly salary for a lifeguard is around $33,062. This salary can vary based on experience, location, and the type of facility where the lifeguard works.
Lifeguards often start with a lower salary, but as they gain experience, they can earn more. The salary range for lifeguards can go from about $22,000 to $51,000 per year. Many factors affect these numbers, including the size of the pool or beach, the hours of operation, and the specific duties required.
What are the highest paying cities for a Lifeguard?

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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $49,904
In San Francisco, lifeguards play a vital role in ensuring safety at the city's many beaches and pools. With a focus on water safety, lifeguards here often work for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The diverse environment and active community make this a rewarding place to work.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $44,069
Boston offers lifeguards a chance to work in a historic city with a strong emphasis on public safety. Lifeguards here often find employment with the Boston Parks and Recreation Department. The city's vibrant atmosphere and numerous water activities provide a dynamic work environment.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,928
Los Angeles provides lifeguards with a variety of opportunities along its beautiful coastline. Many lifeguards work for the city's Department of Beaches and Harbors. The city's diverse beaches and warm climate make it an attractive place for those who enjoy outdoor work.
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Lakeland, FL
Average Salary: $43,697
Lakeland, known as the 'City of Lakes,' offers lifeguards a chance to work in a serene and picturesque setting. Lifeguards here often work for local parks and recreation departments. The city's numerous lakes and outdoor activities create a peaceful yet engaging work environment.
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Santa Rosa, CA
Average Salary: $42,781
Santa Rosa provides lifeguards with a mix of urban and natural settings. Many lifeguards work for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's beautiful parks and recreational facilities offer a balanced and enjoyable work experience.
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Phoenix, AZ
Average Salary: $42,336
In Phoenix, lifeguards work in a city with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities. Many lifeguards find employment with the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's numerous pools and water parks provide a dynamic and engaging work environment.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $42,245
San Diego offers lifeguards a chance to work in one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the country. Lifeguards here often work for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's pristine beaches and warm climate make it an ideal place for those who love the outdoors.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $42,029
San Jose provides lifeguards with a mix of urban and natural settings. Many lifeguards work for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's diverse recreational facilities and beautiful parks offer a balanced and enjoyable work experience.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $41,833
Seattle offers lifeguards a chance to work in a city with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities. Many lifeguards find employment with the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's beautiful lakes and recreational facilities provide a dynamic and engaging work environment.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $41,524
Hartford provides lifeguards with a variety of opportunities along the Connecticut River. Many lifeguards work for the city's Parks and Recreation Department. The city's scenic river and recreational facilities offer a peaceful yet engaging work experience.
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What are the best companies a Lifeguard can work for?

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The Bay Club Company
Average Salary: $54,861
The Bay Club Company offers rewarding Lifeguard positions with competitive pay. They operate in several locations, including San Francisco, CA, and Miami, FL. They provide excellent training and career growth opportunities.
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YMCA of San Francisco
Average Salary: $48,599
YMCA of San Francisco provides Lifeguard jobs with a focus on community and safety. They operate in San Francisco, CA. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
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CITY OF SANTA MONICA
Average Salary: $47,272
The City of Santa Monica offers Lifeguard jobs with a strong emphasis on community service. They operate in Santa Monica, CA. Lifeguards here enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.
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Cooksey's Lifeguard and Swim
Average Salary: $46,614
Cooksey's Lifeguard and Swim provides Lifeguard positions with a focus on safety and customer service. They operate in several locations, including Miami, FL. They offer training and a chance to work in a dynamic environment.
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Broward County, Florida
Average Salary: $45,532
Broward County, Florida offers Lifeguard jobs with a focus on public safety. They operate in Broward County, FL. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
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NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
Average Salary: $45,529
The NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation offers Lifeguard positions with a focus on public safety and recreation. They operate across New York State. Lifeguards here enjoy a supportive work environment and opportunities for professional development.
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City of Sunrise
Average Salary: $45,112
The City of Sunrise offers Lifeguard jobs with a focus on community and safety. They operate in Sunrise, FL. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
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City of Delray Beach, FL
Average Salary: $44,990
The City of Delray Beach, FL offers Lifeguard positions with a focus on public safety. They operate in Delray Beach, FL. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
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City of Bozeman
Average Salary: $44,960
The City of Bozeman offers Lifeguard jobs with a focus on community and safety. They operate in Bozeman, MT. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
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Manatee County Government
Average Salary: $44,184
Manatee County Government offers Lifeguard positions with a focus on public safety. They operate in Manatee County, FL. Lifeguards here receive training and support to ensure the safety of swimmers.
How to earn more as a Lifeguard?
Becoming a lifeguard is a rewarding career, but earning more requires dedication and the right strategies. To increase earnings, consider these key factors:
- Certifications: Obtain advanced certifications such as CPR, First Aid, and Lifesaving. These skills make a lifeguard more valuable to employers.
- Experience: Gain experience by working at different pools or beaches. More experience can lead to higher-paying positions.
- Specialization: Specialize in areas like aquatics instruction or water safety. These skills can open up opportunities for higher pay.
- Education: Pursue higher education in fields like emergency medical services or sports management. This can lead to better-paying positions.
- Networking: Connect with other professionals in the field. Networking can lead to job opportunities that pay more.
By focusing on these factors, a lifeguard can enhance their skills and increase their earning potential. Each step taken towards professional development can lead to better pay and more job opportunities.