As of May 01, 2026, the average salary for a Security Guard I in the United States is $38,700 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $19.
However, a Security Guard I's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:
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A Security Guard I's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how your years of experience, geographic location, education and company size can directly affect your earning potential.
Experience is a primary driver of a Security Guard I's salary. As you build your skills and take on more complex tasks, your compensation generally increases. Here's how the average salary grows at different career stages:
| Job Role | Years of Experience | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Security Guard I | 0-1 years | $38,699 |
| Security Guard II | 3-5 years | $47,544 |
| Security Patrol Supervisor | 5+ years | $59,358 |
What Am I Worth?
Your salary can change significantly depending on where you work. States with a higher cost of living and strong industrial sectors often pay more to attract Security Guard Is. For example, consider the average annual salaries in these key locations:
Demanded Skills for the Role:
| Skills | Demand Percentage |
|---|---|
| Customer Service | 28.07% |
| Food Service | 2.71% |
| CCTV | 1.54% |
| Skill | Salary | Salary % Increase |
|---|---|---|
|
Diversity and Inclusion
|
$41,022 |
6%
|
|
Problem Solving
|
$41,022 |
6%
|
|
Accountability
|
$40,248 |
4%
|
|
Leadership
|
$40,248 |
4%
|
|
Physical Security
|
$40,248 |
4%
|
|
Commitment
|
$39,861 |
3%
|
Your level of education can impact your salary potential. While many Security Guard Is enter the field with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate degree, higher education can lead to more specialized and higher-paying roles.
According to our 100% employer-reported salary data, the median salary for a Security Guard I with a High School Diploma or Technical Certificate is between $35,476 and $37,886).
Security Guard I Salaries by Degree Level
| Degree Level | % of user with this level of education |
|---|---|
| No Diploma | 2.0% |
| High School | 60.0% |
| Associates | 16.9% |
| Bachelors | 18.8% |
| Masters | 1.9% |
| Doctorate | 0.4% |
Understanding how a Security Guard I's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.
Last Updated on May 01, 2026For a Security Guard I, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Security Guard II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $47,600 - a projected growth of 23% over your current level.
Salaries for a Security Guard I can change over time, reflecting shifts in market demand and the overall economy. The median salary decreased from $36,886 in 2023 to around $36,181 in 2025, reflecting changes in demand, location, experience, and the wider economy. For a detailed analysis of Security Guard I salary trends, .
| Year | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 2022 |
View More
|
| 2023 | $36,886 |
| 2024 | $36,694 |
| 2025 | $36,181 |
| 2026 |
View More
|
| 2027 |
View More
|
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For a first job as a Security Guard, the annual salary typically ranges from $33,850 to $42,560, with a mid-salary of $37,870. This indicates a competitive entry-level pay compared to other states, making it a viable option for those starting their careers in security.
Yes, there is a Level 1 Security Guard. They primarily focus on non-intervention roles such as monitoring locations, reporting incidents, and identifying suspicious activities. Their responsibilities may include patrolling properties, watching security cameras, managing access to buildings, and assisting with lockouts. The salary for this position ranges from $33,850 to $42,560, with a mid-range of $37,870.
A typical day as a security guard involves significant walking and monitoring. You'll need to be on your feet for extended periods and maintain good vision. The role can be physically demanding, especially on busier days. In terms of compensation, security guards earn between $33,850 and $42,560 annually, with a median salary of $37,870.
A night security guard's role involves patrolling assigned areas, ensuring safety and security during nighttime hours. Unlike day guards, they focus on monitoring the premises in the dark, often working alone or with a small team. The salary for security guards ranges from $33,850 to $42,560, with a mid-range salary of $37,870.
While high-paying security jobs like Director of Physical Security and Security Operations Engineer can earn significantly more, the average salary for a Security Guard ranges from $33,850 to $42,560, with a mid-salary of $37,870. This highlights the disparity in earnings within the security field, with specialized roles commanding higher salaries.
In the United States, security guards earn an annual salary ranging from $33,850 to $42,560, with a median salary of $37,870. Factors such as experience and location can significantly influence these figures, as labor agreements and working conditions vary across different regions.
Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.
We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)
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