How much does a Security Officer make?
A Security Officer plays a vital role in keeping people and places safe. This job offers a stable career with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Security Officer is around $56,493. This means that, on average, a Security Officer earns a decent amount each year.
The salary for Security Officers can vary based on experience and location. Some earn less than $30,000, while others make over $100,000. Here are the salary ranges for different experience levels:
- Entry-level: $30,000
- Early career: $36,467
- Mid-career: $42,935
- Experienced: $49,402
- Late career: $55,869
- Early post-retirement: $62,336
- Mid post-retirement: $68,804
- Late post-retirement: $75,271
- Very late post-retirement: $81,738
- Peak: $88,205
- End of career: $94,673
- Potential retirement: $101,140
What are the highest paying cities for a Security Officer?

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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $93,340
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 public and government officials. The city's historic sites and government buildings offer a unique environment.
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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $88,031
Seattle offers a dynamic environment with companies like Amazon and Microsoft. As a security professional, you will protect these tech giants and their employees. The city's vibrant culture and tech-driven economy provide a stimulating work setting.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $81,722
Portland is known for its progressive culture and green spaces. Working here means you can protect businesses and public areas in a city that values sustainability. Companies like Nike and Intel offer diverse opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $74,785
Washington, DC, is a hub for political activity and major corporations. You will work in a city rich with history and influence. Protecting key government buildings and landmarks is a key part of the job.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $73,168
Milwaukee offers a mix of industrial and urban environments. Companies like MillerCoors and Harley-Davidson provide varied security needs. The city's strong community spirit and economic diversity make it a rewarding place to work.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $73,158
Denver's high altitude and outdoor lifestyle create a unique work environment. You will protect businesses and public areas in a city known for its natural beauty and active lifestyle. Companies like Lockheed Martin offer exciting opportunities.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $69,196
Honolulu offers a tropical climate and a relaxed atmosphere. Working here means you will protect businesses and attractions in a city known for its beaches and cultural events. The laid-back lifestyle provides a unique work environment.
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El Paso, TX
Average Salary: $64,791
El Paso is a border city with a rich cultural mix. You will work in a dynamic environment protecting businesses and public areas. The city's vibrant culture and economic growth offer diverse opportunities.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $63,137
Topeka offers a small-city feel with a strong sense of community. Working here means you will protect state government buildings and businesses. The city's welcoming atmosphere and economic stability make it a great place to work.
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Fargo, ND
Average Salary: $61,205
Fargo is known for its friendly community and strong economy. You will work in a city that values safety and security. The area's agricultural and business sectors provide a stable work environment.
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What are the best companies a Security Officer can work for?

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Walden Security
Average Salary: $69,208
Walden Security offers rewarding Security Officer jobs with competitive salaries. They operate in various locations, providing top-notch security services. Their roles often include protecting properties and ensuring safety.
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American Guard Services
Average Salary: $68,417
American Guard Services offers high-paying Security Officer jobs. They serve many areas, ensuring safety and security. Their officers protect businesses and events, providing peace of mind.
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State of Michigan
Average Salary: $55,428
The State of Michigan offers Security Officer jobs with a solid salary. They operate across the state, ensuring public safety. Their officers work in various locations, maintaining order and security.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $52,230
Allied Universal provides Security Officer jobs with a good salary. They operate nationwide, offering diverse security services. Their officers protect properties and people, ensuring safety and security.
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Inter-Con Security Systems
Average Salary: $49,676
Inter-Con Security Systems offers Security Officer jobs with a decent salary. They operate in many locations, providing reliable security services. Their officers ensure safety and security in various settings.
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Colorado Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $42,860
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers Security Officer jobs with a fair salary. They operate in Colorado, ensuring courthouse security. Their officers protect the judicial system and maintain order.
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Absolute International Security
Average Salary: $39,231
Absolute International Security offers Security Officer jobs with a reasonable salary. They operate globally, providing security services. Their officers ensure safety and security in various locations.
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St. Moritz Security Services, Inc.
Average Salary: $38,833
St. Moritz Security Services, Inc. offers Security Officer jobs with a good salary. They operate in select locations, providing reliable security services. Their officers ensure safety and security in various settings.
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City of Indianapolis & Marion County
Average Salary: $37,947
The City of Indianapolis & Marion County offers Security Officer jobs with a fair salary. They operate in Indiana, ensuring public safety. Their officers work in various locations, maintaining order and security.
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South Dakota State Government
Average Salary: $27,460
The South Dakota State Government offers Security Officer jobs with a modest salary. They operate across the state, ensuring public safety. Their officers work in various locations, maintaining order and security.
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 by gaining additional certifications. These can include specialized training in areas such as emergency response, conflict resolution, and surveillance techniques. Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand areas such as corporate security or event management. These roles often come with higher pay due to the increased responsibility and risk involved.
Networking with other professionals in the field can also lead to higher-paying opportunities. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and connecting with peers on platforms like LinkedIn can open doors to new job prospects. Additionally, taking on leadership roles within a company can lead to higher salaries. Positions such as shift supervisor or team leader often come with pay increases. Finally, pursuing a career in a high-cost-of-living area can also result in higher earnings. Security Officers in urban centers or areas with a high demand for security services may find better-paying jobs.
By focusing on these areas, Security Officers can improve their chances of earning more. Each step taken towards professional development and skill enhancement can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay.
- Obtain additional certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand areas
- Network with industry professionals
- Take on leadership roles
- Work in high-cost-of-living areas



