Security Guard Salary in Massachusetts
Based on 24K+ workers in Massachusetts
Median Annual Salary (MA)
$44,670
$21.48/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
+13.4% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$35K – $56K
24K employed in Massachusetts
The median Security Guard salary in Massachusetts is $44,670 annually, which averages to about $21 per hour. This figure is 13.4% higher than the national average, reflecting a strong demand for security professionals in the state. Currently, there are approximately 23,930 security guards employed in Massachusetts.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Massachusetts. Experience levels, specific employer, location within the state, and any specialized certifications or skills a guard possesses can all contribute to variations in pay. Those in higher cost-of-living areas or with advanced training may earn more.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Massachusetts
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $34,830 |
| 25th percentile | $37,720 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $44,670 |
| 75th percentile | $45,760 |
| 90th percentile | $55,800 |
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Massachusetts) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,670 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,010 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Massachusetts Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $44,670 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $46,010 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Massachusetts
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $37,720 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $44,670 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $45,760 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $55,800 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Massachusetts
How other high-demand occupations in Massachusetts compare to Security Guard ($44,670 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in MA | $78,940 | +76.7% | $37.95/hr |
| Firefighter in MA | $72,800 | +63.0% | $35.00/hr |
| Receptionist in MA | $43,870 | -1.8% | $21.09/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in MA | $45,600 | +2.1% | $21.92/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in MA | $46,470 | +4.0% | $22.34/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in MA | $46,680 | +4.5% | $22.44/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in MA | $47,320 | +5.9% | $22.75/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in MA | $40,910 | -8.4% | $19.67/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in MA | $49,120 | +10.0% | $23.62/hr |
| Tutor in MA | $49,430 | +10.7% | $23.76/hr |
| Medical Assistant in MA | $49,460 | +10.7% | $23.78/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in MA | $38,460 | -13.9% | $18.49/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Security Guard in Massachusetts?
- The salary range for Security Guards in Massachusetts generally falls between $34,830 and $55,800 per year. The median salary is $44,670 annually.
How does the Security Guard salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
- Security Guards in Massachusetts earn, on average, 13.4% more than their counterparts across the United States. This suggests a higher earning potential within the state.
What is the hourly rate for a Security Guard in Massachusetts?
- Based on the median annual salary of $44,670, the average hourly rate for a Security Guard in Massachusetts is approximately $21 per hour.
How many Security Guards are employed in Massachusetts?
- As of the latest data, there are 23,930 Security Guards employed throughout Massachusetts. This indicates a significant presence of the profession in the state's workforce.