Security Guard Salary in Delaware
Based on 3K+ workers in Delaware
Median Annual Salary (DE)
$36,360
$17.48/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-7.7% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $73K
3K employed in Delaware
The median Security Guard salary in Delaware is $36,360 per year, which equates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 7.7% lower than the national average for this profession, indicating a slightly lower earning potential within the state. The total number of employed security guards in Delaware is 3,430.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Delaware. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. The specific employer, location within Delaware, and any specialized security training or certifications can also impact an individual's earning potential, potentially pushing salaries beyond the typical range.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Delaware
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $32,450 |
| 25th percentile | $36,000 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,360 |
| 75th percentile | $44,450 |
| 90th percentile | $73,390 |
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 Delaware 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 Delaware vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Delaware) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,360 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,451 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Delaware Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,360 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $37,451 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Delaware
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $36,000 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,360 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $44,450 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $73,390 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Delaware
How other high-demand occupations in Delaware compare to Security Guard ($36,360 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in DE | $92,970 | +155.7% | $44.70/hr |
| Firefighter in DE | $46,710 | +28.5% | $22.46/hr |
| Receptionist in DE | $36,310 | -0.1% | $17.46/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in DE | $36,880 | +1.4% | $17.73/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in DE | $35,360 | -2.8% | $17.00/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in DE | $37,420 | +2.9% | $17.99/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in DE | $37,840 | +4.1% | $18.19/hr |
| Tutor in DE | $34,730 | -4.5% | $16.70/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in DE | $34,320 | -5.6% | $16.50/hr |
| Cashier in DE | $33,490 | -7.9% | $16.10/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in DE | $31,300 | -13.9% | $15.05/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in DE | $42,030 | +15.6% | $20.21/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a security guard in Delaware?
- The median Security Guard salary in Delaware is $36,360 per year. This means half of all security guards in the state earn less than this amount, while the other half earn more.
What is the typical salary range for security guards in Delaware?
- The salary range for security guards in Delaware generally falls between $32,450 and $73,390 annually. This wide range reflects differences in experience, employer, and specific duties.
How does the Security Guard salary in Delaware compare to the national average?
- The median Security Guard salary in Delaware is 7.7% lower than the national average. This suggests that Delaware may offer a slightly lower compensation for security guard positions compared to the rest of the country.
Is it possible for a security guard in Delaware to earn more than $70,000 per year?
- Yes, it is possible for some security guards in Delaware to earn above $70,000 per year. The top end of the salary range reaches $73,390, indicating that highly experienced or specialized security professionals can achieve higher pay.