How much does a Security Officer make?
A Security Officer plays a vital role in protecting people and property. This job offers a stable career path with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Security Officer is around $56,182. This means that, on average, Security Officers earn a decent income each year.
The salary for Security Officers can vary based on experience and location. Entry-level positions may start at around $30,000 per year. As officers gain more experience, their salary can increase. Some experienced Security Officers can earn over $100,000 annually. Factors like location and the type of facility can also affect earnings. For example, officers working in urban areas may earn more than those in rural areas.
What are the highest paying cities for a Security Officer?

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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $91,651
In Albany, you can find work with major companies like the New York State Capitol. The role involves ensuring safety and security for both the building and its visitors. The city offers a mix of urban and historic settings, making the job both dynamic and engaging.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $88,031
Seattle offers a vibrant environment for security professionals. Working here means you can protect assets for companies like Amazon and Microsoft. The city's bustling atmosphere and diverse population add to the excitement of the job.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $81,722
Portland is known for its progressive culture and beautiful landscapes. Security roles here often involve protecting venues and events. The city's laid-back vibe makes the job enjoyable while ensuring safety for residents and visitors.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $74,785
In Washington, DC, you can work in a high-stakes environment. Security roles here often involve protecting government buildings and events. The city's rich history and political significance add a unique dimension to the job.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $70,980
Denver offers a mix of urban and outdoor settings. Working as a security professional here means you can protect businesses and events in a city known for its natural beauty. The job is both challenging and rewarding, with plenty of outdoor activities nearby.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $69,196
Honolulu provides a tropical setting for security professionals. The role often involves protecting hotels and tourist attractions. The city's warm climate and beautiful beaches make the job enjoyable and unique.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $67,989
Milwaukee offers a mix of industrial and urban settings. Security roles here often involve protecting businesses and events. The city's rich history and vibrant culture add to the job's appeal.
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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $63,719
El Paso offers a dynamic environment for security professionals. The role often involves protecting businesses and events in a city with a rich cultural heritage. The job offers a mix of urban and outdoor settings.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $63,062
Topeka provides a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community. Security roles here often involve protecting local businesses and events. The job offers a mix of urban and rural settings.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $61,205
Fargo offers a smaller city feel with a strong sense of community. Security roles here often involve protecting local businesses and events. The job offers a mix of urban and rural settings.
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What are the best companies a Security Officer can work for?

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Akima
Average Salary: $76,984
Akima offers rewarding Security Officer jobs with a focus on safety and protection. They operate in various locations, including federal and state facilities, ensuring a secure environment.
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Walden Security
Average Salary: $69,174
Walden Security provides Security Officer positions with competitive pay. They serve clients in multiple states, offering diverse opportunities for career growth and stability.
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American Guard Services
Average Salary: $65,692
American Guard Services is known for its high-quality Security Officer jobs. They operate nationwide, providing essential security services to various industries and ensuring public safety.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $55,025
The State of Michigan offers Security Officer jobs with a strong focus on public service. They operate across the state, providing essential security for government facilities and events.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $51,324
Allied Universal provides Security Officer positions with a reputation for reliability and professionalism. They serve clients across the country, offering diverse security solutions.
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Inter-Con Security Systems
Average Salary: $48,949
Inter-Con Security Systems offers Security Officer jobs with a commitment to safety and security. They operate in multiple states, providing essential security services to various industries.
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Colorado Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $42,583
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers Security Officer positions with a focus on protecting the judicial system. They operate within the state, ensuring the safety of courthouses and legal facilities.
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St. Moritz Security Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $38,833
St. Moritz Security Services, Inc. provides Security Officer jobs with a dedication to safety and protection. They operate in various locations, offering essential security services to clients.
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City of Indianapolis & Marion County
Average Salary: $37,873
The City of Indianapolis & Marion County offers Security Officer positions with a focus on public safety. They operate within the city, providing essential security for local government facilities and events.
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New Mexico Courts
Average Salary: $35,168
New Mexico Courts offers Security Officer jobs with a commitment to protecting the judicial system. They operate within the state, ensuring the safety of courthouses and legal facilities.
How to earn more as a Security Officer?
A career as a Security Officer offers many opportunities for growth and increased earnings. By focusing on certain key areas, a Security Officer can enhance their skills and potentially earn more. One way to increase earnings is through gaining additional certifications and training. These certifications can make a Security Officer more valuable to employers and open up higher-paying positions. Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas such as corporate security or event security. These roles often come with higher pay due to the specialized nature of the work.
Networking and building relationships within the industry can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with other Security Officers can provide insights into better job prospects. Additionally, taking on leadership roles can increase earnings. Positions such as shift supervisor or team leader often come with higher pay. Finally, seeking out roles in areas with higher living costs can also result in a higher salary. Employers in these areas often offer more competitive wages to attract qualified candidates.
By focusing on these factors, a Security Officer can improve their chances of earning more. Here are some key points to consider:
- Obtain additional certifications and training.
- Gain experience in high-demand areas.
- Network and build industry relationships.
- Take on leadership roles.
- Seek roles in areas with higher living costs.