Security Guard Salary in Kentucky
Based on 14K+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$35,420
$17.03/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-10.0% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$28K – $51K
14K employed in Kentucky
The median Security Guard salary in Kentucky is $35,420 per year, which translates to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 10.0% lower than the national average for this profession. With over 13,580 individuals employed in this role within the state, it represents a significant segment of the workforce.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Kentucky. These include the specific location within the state, the experience level of the individual, the size and type of the employer, and any specialized certifications or skills they possess. Wages generally fall between $28,450 and $50,800 annually.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,450 |
| 25th percentile | $31,440 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,420 |
| 75th percentile | $40,370 |
| 90th percentile | $50,800 |
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 Kentucky 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 Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,420 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,483 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Kentucky Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,420 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,483 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $31,440 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,420 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $40,370 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $50,800 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Security Guard ($35,420 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in KY | $60,490 | +70.8% | $29.08/hr |
| Firefighter in KY | $37,150 | +4.9% | $17.86/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in KY | $34,640 | -2.2% | $16.65/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in KY | $36,440 | +2.9% | $17.52/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in KY | $36,810 | +3.9% | $17.70/hr |
| Receptionist in KY | $32,940 | -7.0% | $15.84/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in KY | $38,370 | +8.3% | $18.45/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in KY | $38,700 | +9.3% | $18.61/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in KY | $39,200 | +10.7% | $18.85/hr |
| Medical Assistant in KY | $39,270 | +10.9% | $18.88/hr |
| Tutor in KY | $39,990 | +12.9% | $19.23/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in KY | $29,660 | -16.3% | $14.26/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Security Guard salary in Kentucky?
- The median Security Guard salary in Kentucky is $35,420 annually, or about $17 per hour. This is below the national average by 10.0%.
What is the salary range for Security Guards in Kentucky?
- In Kentucky, Security Guard salaries typically range from $28,450 to $50,800 per year. The median pay is $35,420 annually.
How many Security Guards are employed in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 13,580 Security Guards employed in Kentucky. The median annual salary for these positions is $35,420.
Is the Security Guard salary in Kentucky higher or lower than the national average?
- The Security Guard salary in Kentucky is lower than the national average by 10.0%. The median annual salary in Kentucky is $35,420, compared to the national median.