Security Guards

Salaries for security guards vary according to their level of training and experience, and the location where they work. Those who work for large organizations may earn higher salaries than those employed by small firms. Median annual earnings for security guards were $37,070 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. The median annual salary for workers in all careers was $48,069. Experienced security guards earned more than $57,400 per year, while the least experienced security guards earned less than $28,500 annually. Half of all security guards earned between $31,660 and $44,630. Entry-level guards working for contract agencies may receive little more than the minimum wage. In-house guards generally earn higher wages and have greater job security and better advancement potential.

Depending on their employers, most security consultants and guards receive benefits such as vacation and sick time as well as holidays and medical and dental insurance. Self-employed workers must provide their own benefits.