Security Guard Salary in Maryland
Based on 28K+ workers in Maryland
Median Annual Salary (MD)
$38,220
$18.38/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-2.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$34K – $64K
28K employed in Maryland
The median annual salary for a Security Guard in Maryland is $38,220, which translates to approximately $18 per hour. This figure is slightly lower than the national average, with Maryland Security Guard salaries being 2.9% less. Currently, there are an estimated 27,670 individuals employed in this role within the state.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Maryland. Experience level is a significant determinant, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. Additionally, the specific industry or type of facility where a guard is employed, such as a high-security government building versus a retail store, can impact earning potential. Location within Maryland and the employer's size also play a role.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Maryland
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $33,700 |
| 25th percentile | $35,700 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,220 |
| 75th percentile | $46,750 |
| 90th percentile | $64,320 |
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 Maryland 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 Maryland vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Maryland) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,220 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,367 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Maryland Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,220 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,367 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Maryland
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,700 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,220 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,750 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $64,320 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Maryland
How other high-demand occupations in Maryland compare to Security Guard ($38,220 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in MD | $77,970 | +104.0% | $37.49/hr |
| Firefighter in MD | $73,810 | +93.1% | $35.49/hr |
| Receptionist in MD | $38,100 | -0.3% | $18.32/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in MD | $38,040 | -0.5% | $18.29/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in MD | $37,820 | -1.0% | $18.18/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in MD | $37,690 | -1.4% | $18.12/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in MD | $36,750 | -3.8% | $17.67/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in MD | $40,860 | +6.9% | $19.64/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in MD | $35,510 | -7.1% | $17.07/hr |
| Cashier in MD | $34,390 | -10.0% | $16.53/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in MD | $33,660 | -11.9% | $16.18/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in MD | $42,830 | +12.1% | $20.59/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Security Guard in Maryland?
- The salary range for Security Guards in Maryland typically falls between $33,700 and $64,320 annually. This means that while the median is $38,220, a significant portion of guards earn more or less than this amount.
How does the Security Guard salary in Maryland compare to the national average?
- Security Guard salaries in Maryland are 2.9% lower than the national average. The median salary in Maryland is $38,220 per year, whereas the national median is typically higher.
What is the hourly wage for a Security Guard in Maryland?
- On average, Security Guards in Maryland earn an hourly wage of $18 per hour. This aligns with the median annual salary of $38,220.
Is the pay for Security Guards in Maryland generally good?
- The median Security Guard salary in Maryland is $38,220 per year. While this is slightly below the national average, the salary range extends up to $64,320, indicating opportunities for higher earnings for some individuals.