Security Guard Salary in New Jersey
Based on 42K+ workers in New Jersey
Median Annual Salary (NJ)
$38,880
$18.69/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-1.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$32K – $60K
42K employed in New Jersey
The median Security Guard salary in New Jersey is $38,880 annually, which translates to approximately $19 per hour. This figure is slightly below the national average, indicating a competitive job market for security professionals in the Garden State.
Several factors influence the Security Guard salary in New Jersey. Experience level, specific employer, geographic location within the state, and any specialized security certifications can all contribute to variations in pay, pushing salaries beyond the median of $38,880 into a range that can reach up to $60,420 for more experienced or specialized roles.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in New Jersey
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $32,230 |
| 25th percentile | $34,770 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $38,880 |
| 75th percentile | $48,120 |
| 90th percentile | $60,420 |
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 New Jersey 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 New Jersey vs National
| Year | Median Salary (New Jersey) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,880 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,046 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | New Jersey Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $38,880 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $40,046 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in New Jersey
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $34,770 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $38,880 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $48,120 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $60,420 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in New Jersey
How other high-demand occupations in New Jersey compare to Security Guard ($38,880 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in NJ | $92,610 | +138.2% | $44.52/hr |
| Firefighter in NJ | $84,130 | +116.4% | $40.45/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in NJ | $38,460 | -1.1% | $18.49/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in NJ | $39,610 | +1.9% | $19.04/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in NJ | $37,250 | -4.2% | $17.91/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in NJ | $37,090 | -4.6% | $17.83/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in NJ | $36,520 | -6.1% | $17.56/hr |
| Receptionist in NJ | $41,650 | +7.1% | $20.02/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in NJ | $42,480 | +9.3% | $20.42/hr |
| Cashier in NJ | $34,590 | -11.0% | $16.63/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in NJ | $34,150 | -12.2% | $16.42/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in NJ | $44,960 | +15.6% | $21.62/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical salary range for a Security Guard in New Jersey?
- In New Jersey, Security Guards can expect to earn between $32,230 and $60,420 per year. The median salary falls at $38,880 annually, providing a good benchmark for entry-level to experienced positions.
How does the Security Guard salary in New Jersey compare to the national average?
- The average Security Guard salary in New Jersey is about 1.3% lower than the national average. This means New Jersey offers a slightly less lucrative earning potential compared to the rest of the country, with a median of $38,880.
How many Security Guards are employed in New Jersey?
- There are a significant number of Security Guards employed across New Jersey, with the total number of individuals in this profession estimated at 41,540. This indicates a substantial demand for security services within the state.
Is it possible for a Security Guard in New Jersey to earn more than the median salary?
- Yes, it is definitely possible to earn more than the median Security Guard salary of $38,880 annually. Top earners in New Jersey can make up to $60,420 per year, often due to extensive experience, specialized skills, or working for higher-paying employers.