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Salary

How much does a Lifeguard make?

The average salary for a Lifeguard is $34,050 per year in the US.

Lifeguards play a vital role in keeping people safe at water locations. Their job is important and rewarding. The average yearly salary for a lifeguard is $34,050. This can change based on several factors.

A lifeguard's salary can vary based on where they work and their experience. The most common salary range is between $23,000 and $52,000 per year. Here is a breakdown of the earnings:

  • 10% earn about $23,000 or less
  • 25% earn between $23,000 and $31,000
  • 50% earn between $31,000 and $44,000
  • 75% earn between $44,000 and $52,000
  • 10% earn $52,000 or more

Lifeguards also have opportunities for advancement and higher pay as they gain experience and take on more responsibilities. Many start at entry-level positions and work their way up to supervisory roles.

View Lifeguard jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Lifeguard?

Lifeguard jobs can offer solid earnings, especially in big cities. San Francisco leads with an average salary of over $49,000, followed closely by Los Angeles. Boston, San Jose, and Seattle also provide strong compensation for lifeguards. These cities have lively pools, beaches, and resorts, raising demand for lifeguards. High salaries reflect the cities' need for qualified and experienced professionals.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Lifeguard jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $49,277 and Phoenix, AZ with the lowest at $40,614.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $49,277
    Working in San Francisco offers a chance to safeguard beachgoers while enjoying the city's iconic waterfront. Lifeguards here can find employment with organizations like the San Francisco Fire Department. The diverse climate provides opportunities throughout the year.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $46,190
    Los Angeles provides a vibrant environment for those who love the ocean. Lifeguards patrol some of the most famous beaches in the world. Opportunities exist with county lifeguard services, offering a stable career in a lively city.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  3. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $45,918
    In Boston, lifeguards play a vital role in keeping swimmers safe on the city's waterfront. Working with the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, lifeguards enjoy a mix of urban and coastal settings.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Boston, MA


  4. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $45,545
    San Jose offers a unique blend of city life and outdoor activities. Lifeguards here work in both pools and beaches, providing vital safety services. Opportunities can be found with local aquatic centers and community pools.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in San Jose, CA


  5. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $44,594
    Seattle’s lifeguards enjoy a mix of urban and natural beauty. With a variety of beaches and lakes, lifeguards here must be prepared for different water environments. The city provides numerous training and career advancement opportunities.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Seattle, WA


  6. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $43,556
    Santa Rosa offers a smaller city feel with plenty of outdoor activities. Lifeguards here can work in community pools and lakes, ensuring safety while enjoying a quieter work environment.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  7. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $43,278
    San Diego is a paradise for those who love the beach. Lifeguards here enjoy a mild climate and some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Working with the San Diego County Lifeguards offers a dynamic and rewarding career.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in San Diego, CA


  8. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $41,432
    In Washington, DC, lifeguards have the opportunity to protect visitors and residents in iconic locations. Lifeguards work at various pools and along the Potomac River, combining urban life with outdoor activities.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Washington, DC


  9. Hartford, CT
    Average Salary: $40,884
    Hartford provides a mix of urban and natural settings for lifeguards. With numerous parks and lakes, lifeguards here offer safety while enjoying the historic charm of the city.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Hartford, CT


  10. Phoenix, AZ
    Average Salary: $40,614
    Phoenix offers a unique desert climate for those who enjoy lifeguarding. Lifeguards patrol pools and lakes, providing safety services in a warm and sunny environment.
    Find Lifeguard jobs in Phoenix, AZ

What are the best companies a Lifeguard can work for?

Top employers for lifeguard positions offer competitive salaries, making them attractive for job seekers. The City of Delray Beach tops the list, offering an average salary of $53,257. Other notable employers include Cooksey's Lifeguard and Swim and the YMCA of San Francisco, both with salaries above $50,000. These companies provide excellent opportunities for those seeking rewarding careers in lifeguarding.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Lifeguard jobs, highlighting City of Delray Beach with the highest at $53,257 and YMCA of San Diego County with the lowest at $45,699.
  1. City of Delray Beach
    Average Salary: $53,257
    City of Delray Beach offers rewarding Lifeguard jobs with competitive pay. They serve locations in Delray Beach, Florida. Workers gain valuable experience and enjoy a supportive work environment.


  2. City of Delray Beach, FL
    Average Salary: $51,611
    The City of Delray Beach, FL, provides Lifeguard opportunities with attractive salaries. Positions are available in Delray Beach, Florida. Employees work in well-maintained facilities and enjoy a strong community presence.


  3. Cooksey's Lifeguard and Swim
    Average Salary: $50,476
    Cooksey's Lifeguard and Swim offers Lifeguard jobs with a good salary. They operate swim schools in Florida. Employees benefit from a dynamic work atmosphere and the chance to learn from experienced professionals.


  4. YMCA of San Francisco
    Average Salary: $49,359
    YMCA of San Francisco hires Lifeguards with an average salary. They have locations throughout San Francisco. Working here means joining a community-focused organization that values employee well-being.


  5. The Bay Club Company
    Average Salary: $48,161
    The Bay Club Company offers Lifeguard positions with solid pay. They operate in the San Francisco Bay Area. Employees gain experience in a lively and engaging setting.


  6. City of Sunrise
    Average Salary: $46,569
    City of Sunrise provides Lifeguard jobs with an average salary. They serve the community in Sunrise, Florida. Workers benefit from a supportive work environment and community engagement opportunities.


  7. NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation
    Average Salary: $46,314
    NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation offers Lifeguard jobs with a competitive salary. They operate throughout New York State. Employees enjoy working in beautiful natural settings and supporting public parks.


  8. City of Bozeman
    Average Salary: $46,020
    City of Bozeman offers Lifeguard positions with an average salary. They serve Bozeman, Montana. Workers enjoy a supportive community and the chance to work in outdoor settings.


  9. City of Coral Springs
    Average Salary: $45,997
    City of Coral Springs offers Lifeguard jobs with a solid salary. They operate in Coral Springs, Florida. Employees benefit from a strong community focus and a positive work environment.


  10. YMCA of San Diego County
    Average Salary: $45,699
    YMCA of San Diego County provides Lifeguard positions with an average salary. They serve San Diego County, California. Working here means joining a community-focused organization that values employee development.

How to earn more as a Lifeguard?

Working as a lifeguard can lead to a rewarding career with opportunities for growth and higher earnings. This role not only helps to ensure safety but also provides chances for advancement. Here are key factors that can help increase earnings as a lifeguard.

One major factor is gaining experience. Lifeguards with more years of experience often earn higher wages. Experience shows employers a lifeguard’s skills and reliability. Another important factor is obtaining additional certifications. Advanced certifications in CPR, first aid, and life-saving techniques can make a lifeguard more valuable. These skills can lead to promotions and higher pay. Further, taking on more responsibilities can also increase earnings. This includes overseeing a larger pool or supervising other lifeguards. Those who excel in leadership roles often find better opportunities for advancement.

Location and work environment also play a role in earnings. Lifeguards who work in high-demand areas or prestigious locations may earn more. Beachfront and resort areas often provide higher pay. Lastly, professional development can lead to higher wages. Attending workshops, seminars, and training programs can improve skills and open up better job opportunities.

To summarize, gaining experience, getting additional certifications, taking on more responsibilities, working in high-demand areas, and seeking professional development are key factors for earning more as a lifeguard.

  1. Gain experience and become more reliable.
  2. Obtain advanced certifications like CPR and first aid.
  3. Take on more responsibilities and leadership roles.
  4. Work in high-demand areas like beaches and resorts.
  5. Seek out professional development opportunities.

Currently 2,472 Lifeguard job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Lifeguard in the US?

Learn what a Lifeguard does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Lifeguard today.
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Lifeguard
2,472 Job Openings