Security guard service owners in the West work in two of the most highly regulated and highest-paying states in the industry… California and Washington. Both states set high wage floors, have strict overtime rules, and enforce robust benefits mandates. 

For owners, success in this region requires a strong compliance strategy and the ability to deliver value to clients while covering higher labor costs.

Wage Overview

The West stands out with some of the highest median wages for security officers in the United States. California officers earn a median of $20.00, while Washington averages $26.50.

Minimum Wage Trends

Minimum wages in both states are well above the federal standard:

• California: $16.50 statewide, with many cities setting higher rates. San Francisco and parts of Los Angeles exceed $18.
• Washington: $16.66 statewide in 2025, with Seattle at $18.69.
• Annual indexing for inflation means these rates will continue to rise.

Overtime Rules

The West enforces stricter overtime policies than most other regions:

• California: 1.5x pay after 8 hours in a single day or 40 hours in a week… double time after 12 hours in a day.
• Washington: 1.5x pay after 40 hours in a week.
  
  

For service owners, this means tight scheduling is essential… especially in California where daily overtime quickly increases payroll costs.

Predictive Scheduling

Neither California nor Washington has predictive scheduling laws specific to contract security. However, several cities, such as Seattle, have broader ordinances that can impact scheduling requirements in related sectors. While security is often exempt, clients in those cities may still expect compliance-like scheduling practices.

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Paid Sick Leave

Both states mandate paid sick leave:

• California: Up to 40 hours annual use, with accrual and carryover rules.
• Washington: Faster accrual rates, allowing more paid sick time over the year.
  These generous provisions require accurate tracking to avoid penalties.
  
  

Key Benefits Trends

Security guard service owners in the West often provide premium benefit packages to attract and retain talent:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous PTO and sick leave allowances.
• Strong 401(k) matches.
• Licensing and training reimbursement.
• Uniform and equipment stipends.
• Tuition assistance and public transit cards in major cities.
  
  

Compliance Takeaways for 2025

The West’s labor environment requires a premium pricing strategy and detailed compliance planning. California’s daily overtime rules can dramatically increase payroll expenses if schedules are not optimized. Washington’s high minimum wage and fast accrual of sick time add to costs but also provide a competitive hiring advantage. For owners, the key is aligning operational efficiency with the ability to offer officers a compensation package that matches the high cost of living… while ensuring client contracts account for these realities.

Download Belfry’s guide, State-by-State: Officer Pay & Labor Compliance, to see not only what’s happening in your state and region, but across the entire country.

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