How much does a Security Officer make?
A Security Officer plays a key role in keeping places safe. They make a good living for doing it. On average, a Security Officer earns about $51,986 each year. This is a solid income for many people.
Different places pay Security Officers differently. Here are some details: About 23% earn around $30,000. Another 17% make about $37,000. Some make even more. For example, 3% earn between $93,000 and $100,000. This means there are chances to earn more with experience and extra skills.
What are the highest paying cities for a Security Officer?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $89,100
In Seattle, watch over tech giants and enjoy a mix of urban and nature settings. Notable employers include Amazon and Microsoft, providing dynamic shifts and great opportunities.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $85,852
Albany offers a mix of historic charm and modern security needs. With state government offices, you can find steady work. Companies like State Farm and the New York State Police offer reliable positions.
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Portland, OR
Average Salary: $82,361
Portland combines a vibrant arts scene with a need for diligent protection. Work with tech firms and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. Look for openings with Nike or Intel.
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Milwaukee, WI
Average Salary: $81,767
Milwaukee has a mix of industrial and urban settings that require vigilant eyes. Breweries and corporate offices look for dependable officers. Check with MillerCoors or Harley-Davidson.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $77,399
Boston's rich history and bustling streets make for an exciting security role. Work with universities and financial firms. Companies like Fidelity and Harvard University often hire.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $73,663
Denver offers a mix of mountains and city life. Security roles are in demand in tech and tourism sectors. Companies like Lockheed Martin and Denver International Airport offer good opportunities.
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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $70,805
Washington, DC, offers a dynamic environment with political and cultural events. You can work with federal agencies and major corporations. Look into positions with the U.S. Capitol Police or major hotels.
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Honolulu, HI
Average Salary: $69,267
Honolulu provides a tropical setting with plenty of beachside venues and military bases. Work with hotel chains and security firms. Consider openings with Hilton or the U.S. Navy.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $64,224
Topeka's role as the state capital offers unique security needs. You can find work in government buildings and schools. Look into positions with the Kansas State Capitol or local universities.
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Anchorage, AK
Average Salary: $63,920
Anchorage offers a rugged and scenic environment with a need for security in both urban and remote areas. Work with oil companies and the military. Consider positions with BP or the U.S. Coast Guard.
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What are the best companies a Security Officer can work for?

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Asset Protection and Security
Average Salary: $91,996
Asset Protection and Security offers top-tier positions for Security Officers. Their roles are available across various locations, focusing on protecting assets and ensuring safety. They operate in several states, providing diverse and fulfilling job opportunities.
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Walden Security
Average Salary: $69,512
Walden Security provides rewarding career paths for Security Officers. Their jobs are available nationwide, with a focus on safeguarding properties and people. Walden Security emphasizes training and professional growth, making it a great choice for those looking to advance in the field.
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Colorado Judicial Branch
Average Salary: $51,335
The Colorado Judicial Branch offers competitive Security Officer positions. These jobs are located in Colorado, ensuring a stable and secure work environment. They focus on maintaining order and safety within court facilities, providing a meaningful and impactful role.
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Yavapai County Government
Average Salary: $49,804
Yavapai County Government provides diverse Security Officer roles in Arizona. Their positions focus on public safety and maintaining peace within the community. Working here means being part of a vital service that supports local governance and security.
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Allied Universal
Average Salary: $49,747
Allied Universal offers many Security Officer positions across the United States. Their roles include protecting businesses, events, and properties, providing a dynamic and varied work experience. They emphasize training and career development, making it a solid choice for job seekers.
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PINAL COUNTY
Average Salary: $45,821
Pinal County provides rewarding Security Officer positions in Arizona. Their focus is on community safety and protecting public facilities. These roles offer stability and the chance to serve the local community effectively.
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State of New Hampshire
Average Salary: $44,206
The State of New Hampshire offers several Security Officer jobs across the state. Their positions focus on public safety and security within state-run facilities. Working here means being part of a crucial service that protects and supports the state's residents.
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Absolute International Security
Average Salary: $38,891
Absolute International Security provides diverse Security Officer jobs internationally. Their roles focus on protecting businesses and events in various locations. This company emphasizes training and growth, making it a good fit for those seeking global opportunities.
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G4S
Average Salary: $38,095
G4S offers many Security Officer positions worldwide. Their roles involve protecting properties and people, providing a varied and impactful career. They focus on training and professional development, making it a solid choice for job seekers looking for international opportunities.
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City of Indianapolis & Marion County
Average Salary: $37,172
The City of Indianapolis & Marion County provides Security Officer jobs in Indiana. Their positions focus on public safety and maintaining peace within the city. Working here means being part of a vital service that supports local governance and security.
How to earn more as a Security Officer?
A career in security can lead to earning more with the right approach. A security officer can increase earnings through several methods. Focusing on professional growth opens doors to higher-paying opportunities. Experience and education often lead to better-paying jobs.
Security officers can look to specific factors to increase their income. Here are five key areas to focus on:
- Gain Additional Certifications: Certifications in specific security skills can make a security officer more valuable. These skills might include advanced first aid, conflict resolution, or specialized training in areas like VIP protection.
- Take on Supervisory Roles: Experience and proven skills can lead to a promotion. Supervisors earn more than regular officers. They manage teams and handle more responsibilities.
- Work in High-Demand Locations: Certain areas like airports, government buildings, or large corporations often pay more. Securing a position in these high-demand locations can lead to higher pay.
- Pursue Night Shifts or Weekends: Security officers who work non-traditional hours often earn higher wages. Night shifts and weekend work can provide a significant income boost.
- Join a Security Firm with Competitive Pay: Different companies offer different pay scales. Research and find firms known for competitive salaries and benefits. Switching to a higher-paying firm can increase earnings.



