Security Guard Salaries

Updated on May 09, 2025
Position
Salary

How much does a Security Guard make?

The average salary for a Security Guard is $37,206 per year in the US.

A Security Guard plays a vital role in keeping people and property safe. The salary for this job can vary based on experience and location. On average, a Security Guard earns around $37,206 per year. This figure can change depending on where you work and how much experience you have.


Here are some details about the earnings of Security Guards:

  • Entry-level guards may earn around $26,000 per year.
  • With a few years of experience, this can rise to about $31,367 per year.
  • Guards with more experience can earn up to $55,520 per year.

View Security Guard jobs nearby

What are the highest paying cities for a Security Guard?

Security Guard jobs offer competitive pay in many cities. San Francisco, Seattle, and San Jose lead with the highest average salaries. Job seekers can find excellent opportunities in these locations.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Security Guard jobs, highlighting San Francisco, CA with the highest at $48,323 and Boulder, CO with the lowest at $41,443.
  1. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $48,323
    San Francisco offers many opportunities for those looking to protect and serve. With its bustling tech scene, security professionals can find work in many high-profile companies. The city's diverse environment provides a dynamic work experience.
    Find Security Guard jobs in San Francisco, CA


  2. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $44,948
    Seattle's vibrant atmosphere makes it a great place for security professionals. The city's tech industry and major events create a demand for skilled guards. Working in Seattle means you'll be part of a community that values safety and security.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Seattle, WA


  3. San Jose, CA
    Average Salary: $44,207
    San Jose is a hub for tech and innovation, offering many security job opportunities. The city's growing population and business sector create a need for dedicated security personnel. Working here means you'll be in a fast-paced environment with plenty of growth potential.
    Find Security Guard jobs in San Jose, CA


  4. Santa Rosa, CA
    Average Salary: $43,976
    Santa Rosa provides a quieter, yet rewarding environment for security professionals. The city's focus on community and safety makes it a great place to work. With its beautiful surroundings and strong local businesses, Santa Rosa offers a balanced lifestyle.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Santa Rosa, CA


  5. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $43,369
    In Washington, DC, security roles are crucial for protecting important sites and events. The city's political and cultural landscape offers unique experiences. Working in DC means you'll be part of a team that ensures the safety of a vibrant, historic city.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Washington, DC


  6. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $42,480
    Boston's rich history and educational institutions create a demand for security professionals. The city's diverse environment offers many opportunities for those in the field. Working in Boston means you'll be part of a community that values safety and heritage.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Boston, MA


  7. Portland, OR
    Average Salary: $42,104
    Portland offers a unique blend of urban and natural environments for security professionals. The city's growing tech sector and vibrant culture create a dynamic work setting. Working in Portland means you'll be part of a community that values both safety and sustainability.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Portland, OR


  8. Albany, NY
    Average Salary: $41,503
    Albany, as the capital city, offers many security opportunities in government and public sectors. The city's stable environment provides a reliable career path. Working in Albany means you'll be part of a community that values order and protection.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Albany, NY


  9. Denver, CO
    Average Salary: $41,489
    Denver's outdoor lifestyle and growing economy create a demand for security professionals. The city's diverse environment offers many opportunities for those in the field. Working in Denver means you'll be part of a community that values both safety and adventure.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Denver, CO


  10. Boulder, CO
    Average Salary: $41,443
    Boulder offers a unique blend of outdoor activities and academic institutions for security professionals. The city's focus on health and wellness creates a special work environment. Working in Boulder means you'll be part of a community that values safety and a healthy lifestyle.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Boulder, CO

What are the best companies a Security Guard can work for?

Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC offers the highest salary for Security Guard jobs, with an average of $98,601 per year. This company provides top-notch benefits and career growth opportunities. Akima and the U.S. Government also offer competitive salaries, making them great choices for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Security Guard jobs, highlighting Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC with the highest at $98,601 and Stony Brook University Medical Center with the lowest at $58,384.
  1. Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC
    Average Salary: $98,601
    Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC offers competitive salaries for Security Guard jobs. They provide security services for their facilities in various locations. Their main operations are in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors.


  2. Akima
    Average Salary: $67,300
    Akima provides Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $67,300. They offer security services for government and private clients. Akima operates in multiple states across the U.S.


  3. U.S. Government
    Average Salary: $66,000
    The U.S. Government offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $66,000. They provide security for federal buildings and properties nationwide. Opportunities exist in many cities and states.


  4. Providers International
    Average Salary: $62,773
    Providers International pays Security Guards an average of $62,773. They offer security services for healthcare facilities. Their locations are spread across several states.


  5. DDCues LLC
    Average Salary: $62,171
    DDCues LLC provides Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $62,171. They offer security services for various industries. Their operations cover multiple states.


  6. U.S. Army
    Average Salary: $61,960
    The U.S. Army offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $61,960. They provide security for military installations. Opportunities are available worldwide.


  7. Security Services Northwest
    Average Salary: $61,818
    Security Services Northwest offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $61,818. They provide security services for businesses and events. Their operations are in the Northwest region.


  8. MGM Resorts International
    Average Salary: $60,983
    MGM Resorts International offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $60,983. They provide security for their casinos and hotels. Their locations are in major cities across the U.S.


  9. Eagle Eye International Protective Services
    Average Salary: $59,938
    Eagle Eye International Protective Services offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $59,938. They provide security for high-profile clients. Their operations are nationwide.


  10. Stony Brook University Medical Center
    Average Salary: $58,384
    Stony Brook University Medical Center offers Security Guard jobs with an average salary of $58,384. They provide security for the medical center and its facilities. Their location is in Stony Brook, New York.

How to earn more as a Security Guard?

A career as a Security Guard offers many opportunities for growth and increased earnings. By focusing on certain areas, a Security Guard can enhance their skills and potentially earn more. One key factor is gaining experience. The more time spent in the field, the more knowledgeable and capable a Security Guard becomes. This experience often leads to higher-paying positions and promotions.

Another important factor is obtaining additional certifications. Many employers value guards who have extra training in areas such as first aid, conflict resolution, or emergency management. These certifications can make a Security Guard more attractive to potential employers and can lead to higher pay. Continuing education and staying updated on the latest security practices also play a significant role in career advancement. Guards who invest in their professional development often find themselves in higher-paying roles. Networking with other professionals can also open up new opportunities and lead to better-paying positions. Building a strong professional network can provide access to job openings and insider tips on how to advance in the field.

Lastly, taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Security Guards who demonstrate strong leadership skills and take on supervisory roles can earn more. These positions often come with higher pay and additional responsibilities. By showing dedication and a willingness to lead, Security Guards can position themselves for higher-paying opportunities.

Consider these factors to increase earnings as a Security Guard:

  1. Gain experience in the field.
  2. Obtain additional certifications.
  3. Continue education and professional development.
  4. Build a strong professional network.
  5. Take on leadership roles.

Currently 6,006 Security Guard job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Security Guard in the US?

Learn what a Security Guard does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Security Guard today.
Position
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Security Guard
6,006 Job Openings