Security Guard Salary in South Carolina
Based on 17K+ workers in South Carolina
Median Annual Salary (SC)
$35,460
$17.05/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-9.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$27K – $49K
17K employed in South Carolina
The median annual Security Guard salary in South Carolina is $35,460, translating to approximately $17 per hour. This figure is 9.9% lower than the national average for the profession. With over 16,610 individuals employed in this role across the state, it represents a significant sector within South Carolina's workforce.
Several factors influence the Security Guard salary in South Carolina. Experience level, the specific employer, location within the state, and additional certifications or specialized skills can all impact earning potential. The salary range generally falls between $27,420 and $48,850 annually, reflecting these varying influences on compensation.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in South Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $27,420 |
| 25th percentile | $30,130 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $35,460 |
| 75th percentile | $38,220 |
| 90th percentile | $48,850 |
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 South Carolina 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 South Carolina vs National
| Year | Median Salary (South Carolina) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,460 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,524 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | South Carolina Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $35,460 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $36,524 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in South Carolina
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $30,130 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $35,460 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $38,220 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $48,850 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in South Carolina
How other high-demand occupations in South Carolina compare to Security Guard ($35,460 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in SC | $58,070 | +63.8% | $27.92/hr |
| Firefighter in SC | $42,570 | +20.1% | $20.47/hr |
| Receptionist in SC | $35,510 | +0.1% | $17.07/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in SC | $35,740 | +0.8% | $17.18/hr |
| Rehabilitation Counselor in SC | $35,990 | +1.5% | $17.30/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in SC | $36,020 | +1.6% | $17.32/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in SC | $37,220 | +5.0% | $17.89/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in SC | $33,590 | -5.3% | $16.15/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in SC | $38,860 | +9.6% | $18.68/hr |
| Tutor in SC | $39,800 | +12.2% | $19.13/hr |
| Social Worker in SC | $39,930 | +12.6% | $19.20/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in SC | $30,690 | -13.5% | $14.75/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guard make on average in South Carolina?
- The median Security Guard salary in South Carolina is $35,460 per year. This averages out to about $17 per hour. This median is 9.9% less than the national average.
What is the typical salary range for Security Guards in South Carolina?
- In South Carolina, Security Guards typically earn between $27,420 and $48,850 annually. This range reflects differences in experience, employer, and location within the state.
Is the Security Guard salary in South Carolina higher or lower than the national average?
- The Security Guard salary in South Carolina is lower than the national average. The median salary is 9.9% below the national median for this profession.
How many Security Guards are employed in South Carolina?
- There are approximately 16,610 Security Guards employed in South Carolina. This makes it a notable occupation within the state's job market.