Security Guard Salary in Montana
Based on 2K+ workers in Montana
Median Annual Salary (MT)
$38,480
$18.50/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-2.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$29K – $57K
2K employed in Montana
The median Security Guard salary in Montana is $38,480 annually, translating to approximately $19 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national average, with Montana guards earning about 2.3% less than their counterparts nationwide. Currently, there are an estimated 1,610 Security Guards employed across the state.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Montana. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. The specific industry or type of facility being protected, such as a retail store versus a government building, can also impact compensation, as can the geographic location within Montana.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Montana
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $28,800 |
| 25th percentile | $35,260 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,480 |
| 75th percentile | $46,300 |
| 90th percentile | $57,310 |
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 Montana 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 Montana vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Montana) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,480 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,634 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Montana Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,480 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $39,634 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Montana
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,260 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,480 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,300 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $57,310 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Montana
How other high-demand occupations in Montana compare to Security Guard ($38,480 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in MT | $70,050 | +82.0% | $33.68/hr |
| Firefighter in MT | $59,310 | +54.1% | $28.51/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in MT | $38,060 | -1.1% | $18.30/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in MT | $39,050 | +1.5% | $18.77/hr |
| Receptionist in MT | $37,360 | -2.9% | $17.96/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in MT | $36,630 | -4.8% | $17.61/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in MT | $36,270 | -5.7% | $17.44/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in MT | $40,900 | +6.3% | $19.66/hr |
| Cashier in MT | $34,190 | -11.1% | $16.44/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in MT | $33,990 | -11.7% | $16.34/hr |
| Administrative Assistant in MT | $43,940 | +14.2% | $21.13/hr |
| Tutor in MT | $45,050 | +17.1% | $21.66/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Security Guard in Montana?
- The salary range for a Security Guard in Montana typically falls between $28,800 and $57,310 per year. This means that while the median is $38,480, there's a substantial variation based on experience and other factors.
How does the Security Guard salary in Montana compare to the national average?
- The average Security Guard salary in Montana is slightly lower than the national average. Montana guards earn approximately 2.3% less than the national median salary.
What is the hourly wage for a Security Guard in Montana?
- Based on the median annual salary of $38,480, a Security Guard in Montana can expect to earn around $19 per hour. This hourly rate can fluctuate depending on the specific employer and role.
How many Security Guards are employed in Montana?
- There are approximately 1,610 Security Guards employed throughout Montana. This number indicates the overall demand for security professionals within the state.