Security Guard Salary in Arkansas
Based on 6K+ workers in Arkansas
Median Annual Salary (AR)
$35,770
$17.20/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-9.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $57K
6K employed in Arkansas
The median Security Guard salary in Arkansas is $35,770 per year, which translates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 9.2% lower than the national average for the profession. In Arkansas, there are an estimated 6,390 individuals currently employed as security guards.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Arkansas, including experience level, the specific employer, and the geographic location within the state. Those with specialized training or a longer work history tend to earn more. The size and type of business or institution they protect also play a role in compensation.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Arkansas
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,870 |
| 25th percentile | $29,750 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,770 |
| 75th percentile | $41,210 |
| 90th percentile | $57,410 |
Top-Paying Industries for Security Guard (U.S.)
Which industries pay Security Guards the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Security Guards in Arkansas tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Utilities | $66,720 | 5K |
| Finance and Insurance | $57,380 | 4K |
| Information | $47,900 | 3K |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | $47,230 | 10K |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $46,450 | 33K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Security Guard in Arkansas vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Arkansas) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,770 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,843 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Arkansas Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,770 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,843 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Arkansas
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $29,750 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,770 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $41,210 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $57,410 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Arkansas
How other high-demand occupations in Arkansas compare to Security Guard ($35,770 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in AR | $47,670 | +33.3% | $22.92/hr |
| Firefighter in AR | $39,690 | +11.0% | $19.08/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in AR | $35,210 | -1.6% | $16.93/hr |
| Receptionist in AR | $34,840 | -2.6% | $16.75/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in AR | $34,700 | -3.0% | $16.68/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in AR | $34,430 | -3.7% | $16.55/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in AR | $37,630 | +5.2% | $18.09/hr |
| Construction Laborer in AR | $37,630 | +5.2% | $18.09/hr |
| Medical Assistant in AR | $37,760 | +5.6% | $18.15/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in AR | $37,840 | +5.8% | $18.19/hr |
| Real Estate Sales Agent in AR | $38,180 | +6.7% | $18.36/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in AR | $38,680 | +8.1% | $18.60/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a security guard in Arkansas?
- In Arkansas, security guards can expect to earn within a range of $28,870 to $57,410 annually. The median salary sits at $35,770 per year, offering a good benchmark for earning potential.
How does the average security guard pay in Arkansas compare to the national average?
- The average Security Guard salary in Arkansas is 9.2% lower than the national average. This means that, on average, security guards in Arkansas earn less than their counterparts across the country.
How many security guards are employed in Arkansas?
- There are approximately 6,390 security guards employed in Arkansas. This indicates a stable job market for individuals in this profession within the state.
Is it possible for security guards in Arkansas to earn more than the median salary?
- Yes, it is possible to earn more than the median salary of $35,770 per year. The upper end of the salary range in Arkansas reaches $57,410, suggesting opportunities for higher earnings with experience or in specialized roles.