The security guards are significant in securing individuals and properties in most locations, be it in offices and shops, hospitals and events. In case you are considering a career in security or simply desire to learn the salary rate of security guards, it is better to be aware of the existing salary trend. This blog will discuss the salaries of security guards in 2025, factors that impact their salaries, and how to increase their salaries in this occupation.
Understanding the Security Guard Salaries
Salaries of security guards are determined by a number of variables that influence the amount of money one can earn in this industry. The average unarmed security guards in the United States earn approximately $35,600 per year; this is approximately 17 per hour. However, this figure can vary extensively depending on experience, certification, the kind of employer, and the risks involved in the job. In case armed guards or people whose work is at high risk might earn more as it may be over $50,000 per year.
| Type of Security Guard | Average Annual Salary (2025) | Hourly Rate (Approx.) |
| Unarmed Security Guard | $27,500 – $44,000 | $13 – $21 |
| Armed Security Guard | $40,000 – $58,000+ | $19 – $28+ |
| Hospital Security Guard | $28,000 – $50,500 | $14 – $24 |
| Corporate Security Guard | $29,000 – $46,500 | $14 – $22 |
| Retail/Mall Security Guard | $24,000 – $40,500 | $12 – $20 |
| Event Security Guard | $16 – $20+ per hour | $16 – $20+ |
How to Increase Your Security Guard Salary
Increasing your security guard salary happens when you focus on building your experience, sharpening your skills, and taking advantage of good opportunities.
Gain More Experience
The longer you work as a security guard, the better your skills become. Many employers reward this with higher pay or promotions to lead teams.
Get Advanced Certifications
Getting certificates like an armed guard license or CPR training shows you have special skills. This makes you more valuable and can lead to better pay.
Pursue Specialized Roles
Think about working in special areas such as protecting executives, managing big events, or guarding risky places. These jobs usually pay more.
Work in Higher-Paying Fields
Security jobs in hospitals, government offices, and tech companies often pay better than those in retail or events. Exploring these options can improve your earnings.
Move to Places with Better Pay
Some states or cities have higher wages because the cost of living is more. Moving to places like New York or California can boost your income.
Take Overtime and Night Shifts
Working extra hours, nights, or holidays usually means extra pay. Taking these shifts can increase your total earnings fast.
Aim for Management Roles
Getting promoted to supervisor or manager means more responsibility and more money. Showing leadership and good communication helps you move up.
How Much Do Armed Security Guards Make?
Unarmed guards are typically paid less than armed security guards because of the increased responsibility and risk of carrying a gun. Armed security guards in the United States earn approximately $50,000 or above per annum, depending on their experience, place of work, and employer. Others can even earn more when operating in risky conditions or in governmental organizations.
Experience is significant in the pay because the entry-level armed guards are paid less and the ones who have years of experience or specialized training make more money. The places that have a higher living standard like New York or California, are also better paid and they can be much higher than the national average by many thousands of dollars.
Besides a base salary, armed guards can also earn extra money through overtime, night shifts, or bonuses based on taking on more dangerous assignments, making this a financially viable career option for those who qualify and receive experience.
Conclusion
The salary of security guards can widely depend on the experience and location, certification and the type of work. Security guards can have a rewarding career with gradual salary increment when they are focused and dedicated. In case of professional security services or to learn more about a career in the security field, you can contact Security Florida. We offer professional advice, training services and stable security personnel that are based on your requirements.
FAQs.
The average security guard salary in the U.S. is approximately $35,600/ year or 17 per hour.
Yes, security guards usually make more money which is usually $40,000-58000 or more.
Licenses such as armed guard licensing, CPR training and security course specializations may also raise salary.
Yes, senior guards tend to receive a higher pay, and they are more likely to get a promotion.
Yes, night shifts, holidays or overtime are usually accompanied with additional salary.
Healthcare, government, and tech-associated security employment tends to have higher wages as compared to retail security or event security.
