Security Guard Salary in Rhode Island
Based on 3K+ workers in Rhode Island
Median Annual Salary (RI)
$36,940
$17.76/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-6.2% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$31K – $49K
3K employed in Rhode Island
The median Security Guard salary in Rhode Island is $36,940 annually, or approximately $18 per hour. This figure is 6.2% lower than the national average for security guards. With 3,160 individuals employed in this role across the state, it represents a significant sector within the Rhode Island job market.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Rhode Island. Experience level plays a crucial role, with more seasoned professionals often commanding higher pay. Additionally, the specific industry, such as healthcare or manufacturing, and the employer's size and location within Rhode Island can also impact earning potential and the overall salary range, which typically falls between $31,200 and $48,520.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Rhode Island
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $31,200 |
| 25th percentile | $34,370 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $36,940 |
| 75th percentile | $44,510 |
| 90th percentile | $48,520 |
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 Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Rhode Island) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,940 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,048 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Rhode Island Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $36,940 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,048 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Rhode Island
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $34,370 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $36,940 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $44,510 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $48,520 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Rhode Island
How other high-demand occupations in Rhode Island compare to Security Guard ($36,940 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in RI | $77,230 | +109.1% | $37.13/hr |
| Firefighter in RI | $67,380 | +82.4% | $32.39/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in RI | $36,510 | -1.2% | $17.55/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in RI | $36,470 | -1.3% | $17.53/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in RI | $35,420 | -4.1% | $17.03/hr |
| Cashier in RI | $34,860 | -5.6% | $16.76/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in RI | $34,860 | -5.6% | $16.76/hr |
| Tutor in RI | $41,960 | +13.6% | $20.17/hr |
| Fast Food and Counter Worker in RI | $31,490 | -14.8% | $15.14/hr |
| Receptionist in RI | $42,620 | +15.4% | $20.49/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in RI | $43,680 | +18.2% | $21.00/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in RI | $44,380 | +20.1% | $21.34/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly wage for a Security Guard in Rhode Island?
- The median hourly wage for a Security Guard in Rhode Island is $18. This means that half of all security guards earn more than this amount, and half earn less.
What is the salary range for Security Guards in Rhode Island?
- The salary range for Security Guards in Rhode Island is between $31,200 and $48,520 annually. This indicates the potential earnings for entry-level positions compared to those with more extensive experience or specialized roles.
How does Rhode Island's Security Guard pay compare to the national average?
- Security Guard salaries in Rhode Island are 6.2% lower than the national average. This suggests that while the median annual salary is $36,940, the national median would be higher.
How many Security Guards are employed in Rhode Island?
- There are approximately 3,160 Security Guards employed in Rhode Island. This number provides context for the size of the job market for this profession within the state.