Security Guard Salary in Washington
Based on 26K+ workers in Washington
Median Annual Salary (WA)
$47,100
$22.64/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
+19.6% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$38K – $68K
26K employed in Washington
The median Security Guard salary in Washington is $47,100 per year, which equates to roughly $23 per hour. This figure is 19.6% higher than the national average, indicating a strong demand for security professionals in the state. With approximately 25,800 individuals currently employed in this role, Washington offers a competitive landscape for those entering or advancing within the security field.
Several factors can influence the Security Guard salary in Washington. Experience level plays a significant role, with more seasoned guards often commanding higher pay. Location within the state, such as metropolitan areas versus rural regions, can also impact earning potential. Specialized certifications or additional responsibilities may lead to increased compensation beyond the median range of $37,720 to $68,390.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Washington
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $37,720 |
| 25th percentile | $42,030 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $47,100 |
| 75th percentile | $56,990 |
| 90th percentile | $68,390 |
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 Washington 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 Washington vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Washington) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $47,100 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,513 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Washington Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $47,100 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $48,513 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Washington
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $42,030 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $47,100 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $56,990 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $68,390 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Washington
How other high-demand occupations in Washington compare to Security Guard ($47,100 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in WA | $102,080 | +116.7% | $49.08/hr |
| Firefighter in WA | $94,520 | +100.7% | $45.44/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in WA | $46,800 | -0.6% | $22.50/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WA | $47,730 | +1.3% | $22.95/hr |
| Tutor in WA | $48,020 | +2.0% | $23.09/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WA | $49,180 | +4.4% | $23.64/hr |
| Receptionist in WA | $44,710 | -5.1% | $21.50/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WA | $44,620 | -5.3% | $21.45/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in WA | $50,330 | +6.9% | $24.20/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WA | $39,560 | -16.0% | $19.02/hr |
| Cashier in WA | $38,720 | -17.8% | $18.62/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in WA | $56,130 | +19.2% | $26.99/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical Security Guard salary range in Washington?
- The salary range for Security Guards in Washington typically falls between $37,720 and $68,390 annually. This indicates a broad spectrum of earning potential based on various influencing factors.
How does the median Security Guard salary in Washington compare to the national average?
- The median Security Guard salary in Washington is $47,100 per year, which is 19.6% higher than the national average. This suggests that security professionals in Washington generally earn more than their counterparts across the country.
What is the average hourly wage for a Security Guard in Washington?
- Security Guards in Washington earn a median hourly wage of $23. This breaks down from the annual median of $47,100 and positions Washington well above the national average.
Is the demand for Security Guards high in Washington?
- Yes, the demand appears to be substantial, with 25,800 individuals currently employed as Security Guards in Washington. This number, coupled with the higher median salary, suggests a robust job market for this profession in the state.