As of early 2025, the average unarmed security guard salary in the U.S. is around $35,600 per year, or roughly $17 an hour, according to ZipRecruiter. Your pay can vary a lot depending on where you work, your experience, and whether you’re licensed for higher-risk roles.

In this article, we’ll cover: 

• The average national security guard pay rate
• Security guard wages per industry
• 5 top paying states and cities
• Employment trends
• Factors influencing security hourly pay and tips to boost yours
• Common questions

Let’s start by looking at the national average.

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How much does a security guard make? National averages

Well, security guard pay can vary depending on the job, but here’s what the numbers look like across the U.S. in early 2025.

According to ZipRecruiter, the average unarmed security guard salary in the United States is about $35,600 per year, or ~$17 an hour. That’s the baseline for many entry-level or general guard positions.

But that’s not the full picture. There’s a decent range depending on experience:

• Lower end: Around $27,500 per year for newer guards or those working part-time.
  
  
• Higher end: Up to $44,000 or more annually for experienced guards or those working in high-demand cities.

These numbers usually reflect unarmed guards. Armed guards, private security contractors, and guards working in government or high-risk roles often earn more, sometimes $50,000+ per year (depending on the location and responsibilities).

Note: Some guards working in private security are salaried, especially in full-time corporate or government roles, but many are paid hourly. Overtime, night shifts, or holiday work can also increase total earnings.

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Security guard pay by industry

The type of security job you take has a big impact on your paycheck. Different industries have different demands, risks, and budgets which all play into how much they’re willing to pay.

Here’s a quick look at how pay can vary depending on where you work:

• Healthcare and hospital security: Guards working in hospitals often deal with high-stress situations and strict protocols. Pay typically ranges from $28,000 to $50,500 per year, with higher wages in larger cities or trauma centers.
  
  
• Corporate security: These roles can involve monitoring offices, handling employee badge access, or managing lobby security. Salaries usually land between $29,000 and $46,500 annually, but can climb if you're in a high-rise or finance-related building.
  
  
• Retail and mall security: This tends to be on the lower end of the pay scale. Expect around $24,000 to $52,000 per year, depending on experience and location. These jobs often focus on theft prevention and crowd monitoring.
  
  
• Event security: Pay can vary a lot. Some events only offer hourly gigs at $16 to $18 an hour, but large venues or high-profile events might pay $20+ per hour, especially for overnight or crowd-control shifts.
  
  
• Armed security guards: These jobs usually pay more because of the added risk and training involved, plus there’s just more requirements to become armed security. Armed guards working for private companies often earn $25,000 to $58,000+ annually, especially if they’re licensed and working in high-demand sectors like banking, cannabis, or executive protection.

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5 Highest-paying states and cities for security guards

Where you work can make a big difference in how much you earn. Some states and cities pay well above the national average due to higher costs of living, greater demand, or riskier job environments.

Based on data from ZipRecruiter in 2025, here are the highest-paying spots for unarmed security guards:

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Top 5 highest-paying states

1. Washington: Average salary of $40,314 per year
   
2. District of Columbia: Average salary of $40,222 per year
   
3. New York: Average salary of $38,941 per year
   
4. Massachusetts: Average salary of $38,873 per year
   
5. Alaska: Average salary of $38,333 per year

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Top 5 highest-paying cities

Based on reported salaries on Indeed, the top cities often include:

1. Los Angeles, California ($19.37 per hour)
2. Phoenix, Arizona ($18.83 per hour)
3. New York, New York ($18.83 per hour)
4. Queens, New York ($18.43 per hour)
5. Brooklyn, New York ($18.34 per hour)

Big cities generally offer higher pay, but keep in mind they also come with higher living costs. Still, for guards with experience or special licenses, these areas can offer strong earning potential.

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Employment trends and job outlook

Security guard jobs aren’t disappearing anytime soon. In fact, the field is holding steady, and in some industries, it’s growing.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, security guard employment is projected to grow by about 2% from 2022 to 2032. That might sound small, but it still adds up to over 162,000 job openings per year, mostly from guards switching careers or retiring.

What’s driving demand? Let’s take a look:

• Increased security concerns: Businesses and institutions are prioritizing safety more than ever.
  
  
• Growth in healthcare and tech: Hospitals, data centers, and research facilities all need reliable security staff.
  
  
• Retail recovery: As more in-person shopping returns, stores are hiring guards again to prevent theft and manage crowds.
  
  
• Corporate security expansion: With more companies reopening physical offices, lobby guards and building access monitors are in demand.

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Additional benefits and perks

Security guard salaries are just part of the picture. Many employers, especially larger security firms or companies with in-house teams, offer extra perks that make a big difference in total compensation. If you're looking at a new job, it’s worth asking about these extras. A slightly lower hourly wage might be worth it if the benefits package is strong.

Here’s what guards often get on top of their base pay:

• Health insurance: Many full-time positions include medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  
  
• Retirement plans: Some companies offer 401(k) options, with or without matching contributions.
  
  
• Paid time off: Vacation days, sick leave, and sometimes even personal or mental health days.
  
  
• Bonuses: Performance-based pay, holiday bonuses, or referral bonuses can add up over the year.
  
  
• Overtime pay: Guards who work long shifts, nights, or holidays may see extra earnings.
  
  
• Career advancement opportunities: Promotions to supervisor, site lead, or regional manager roles are common in larger firms.

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Factors that influence security guard salaries

Not all guard jobs pay the same. Here are the biggest things that affect how much someone earns in this field:

• Experience level: Entry-level guards might start around $23,000–$30,000 per year, while those with several years of experience can earn $40,000 or more. Supervisors and site leads often make even more.
  
  
• Certifications and training: Certifications show what security guards can do, and guards with advanced credentials like an armed guard license, CPR certification, or security clearance tend to earn higher wages. These extras show you're serious and qualified for more specialized roles.
  
  
• Type of employer: Government jobs and large corporations usually pay more than retail stores or small private contractors. The size and type of client often affect how much they’re willing to pay for security.
  
  
• Risk level of the job: Armed roles, high-crime areas, and jobs involving valuable assets tend to come with higher pay because of the added responsibility and risk involved.

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Tips to increase your security guard salary

If you’re looking to move up or boost your paycheck, here are a few practical ways to do it:

• Gain more experience: The longer you stay in the field, the more you can earn. Many companies offer raises after your first year or when you move into a lead or supervisor role.
  
  
• Get advanced certifications: Becoming an armed guard or getting specialized training (like executive protection or first aid) can lead to higher-paying jobs.
  
  
• Work in high-paying industries: Sectors like healthcare, government, and tech tend to pay more than retail or event work. If you're looking to grow, these industries are worth looking into.
  
  
• Move to high-paying locations: States like New York and California often offer better wages, though the cost of living is higher too. Even moving from a rural area to a nearby city can make a difference.
  
  
• Take on overtime and night shifts: If your employer offers extra pay for late hours, holidays, or double shifts, those can quickly add up. Just be sure to track your hours to avoid burnout or missed pay.

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Understanding pay regulations

Paying your security team fairly isn’t just good business, it’s a legal requirement. Whether you’re managing a team or working as a guard yourself, it’s important to understand the basic rules around wages and overtime.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what matters:

• Minimum wage compliance: Federal law sets a base minimum wage, but many states (and even cities) have their own, higher rates. You’re legally required to pay whichever rate is highest. To stay compliant, double-check the rules in your area using the Department of Labor’s wage lookup tool.
  
  
• Recordkeeping matters: Employers need to keep accurate records of hours worked. This protects both the company and the guard, especially when it comes to overtime or schedule disputes.
  
  
• Overtime pay: Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), most employees must be paid time-and-a-half for any hours worked beyond 40 in a single week. Some states have even stricter rules, so it's a good idea to check your local laws.
  
  
• Using tools to stay compliant: If you're a company owner or scheduler, using a system like Belfry can help you track hours in real time. This even includes overtime. Belfry also simplifies admin work for you by making sure that the payroll system is integrated to simplify financial reporting.

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Frequently asked questions

Do security guards get paid weekly or biweekly?

It depends on the employer. Some companies pay weekly, while others stick to a biweekly schedule. Sometimes, it can also depend on the company’s size. Larger firms may pay biweekly, while smaller companies may pay you on a weekly basis. If you're applying for a new job, it’s worth asking during the interview process.

Can security guards earn overtime pay?

Yes, many do. If an officer spends more than 40 hours a week doing their security duties, they’re usually eligible for overtime pay, which is typically time-and-a-half. Some states have their own overtime laws, too, so pay can vary depending on where you're working and what kind of security job you have.

Is being a security guard a good career?

It can be a solid choice, especially if you’re looking for steady work with a clear path to advancement. While entry-level pay isn’t the highest, experienced guards and those with specialized training (like armed or executive protection) can earn much more. There’s also room to grow into supervisor or management roles.

Do security guards need a degree?

No degree is required to start out as a security guard. Most states just require a high school diploma or GED and a license. That said, having extra training, certifications, or a background in criminal justice can help you land better-paying or more specialized jobs. Consider going for additional certifications that may help you advance in your career.

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How Belfry can make timekeeping and payroll easier

Now that you know more about security guard salary averages, it’s a good time to look at how you’re managing pay, hours, and scheduling. If you're still juggling spreadsheets or chasing down timesheets, Belfry can help.

Belfry is an all-in-one security guard software that puts everything in one place, making it easier to manage your team.

Here’s how:

• Easy scheduling: Minimize scheduling conflicts and avoid unmanned shifts thanks to Belfry’s automated scheduling features that assign shifts based on site requirements, officer certifications, and training.
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• Increased officer accountability: Belfry has GPS tracking and NFC-based guided tours to help you make sure your guards are adhering to their post orders. Geofencing alerts help alert you if a guard leaves their designated area.
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• Digital incident reporting: Goodbye pen and paper — guards can more easily keep you up-to-date by sending digital incident reports through the Belfry mobile app. They can even attach any evidence if needed.
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• Track certifications: Prevent license compliance lapses by inputting your officers’ licenses and certifications. Belfry tracks renewal dates automatically and sends notifications when they’re coming up.
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• Custom reporting: Need to create reports? Belfry allows you to design tailored reports, including incident documentation, patrol activities, and compliance status.
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• Simplified payroll: Belfry automates time and attendance tracking to make payroll easier. It also tracks overtime, labor expenses, and timesheets to make financial reporting a breeze.

Ready to see how Belfry can help you manage admin work so you can focus on what matters? Schedule a Free Demo Today.