Security Guard Salary in Wisconsin
Based on 12K+ workers in Wisconsin
Median Annual Salary (WI)
$37,440
$18.00/hr
vs National Average
$39,375
-4.9% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$30K – $55K
12K employed in Wisconsin
The median Security Guard salary in Wisconsin is $37,440 per year, which translates to an hourly rate of $18. This figure is 4.9% lower than the national average. With over 12,000 security guards employed in the state, understanding this salary landscape is crucial for professionals in the field.
Several factors influence the Security Guard salary in Wisconsin. Experience levels play a significant role, with more seasoned guards often earning more. Geographic location within the state, employer type (private vs. public sector), and specific job duties, such as armed versus unarmed security, can also cause variations in pay. Additional certifications or specialized skills may also command higher compensation.
Salary Distribution — Security Guard in Wisconsin
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30,410 |
| 25th percentile | $35,030 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $37,440 |
| 75th percentile | $46,210 |
| 90th percentile | $54,680 |
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 Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Wisconsin) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,440 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,563 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Wisconsin Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $37,440 | $39,375 |
| 2026 (projected) | $38,563 | $40,556 |
Security Guard Salary by Experience Level in Wisconsin
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $35,030 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $37,440 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $46,210 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $54,680 |
Security Guard Salary in Other States
Related Security Guard Salaries in Wisconsin
How other high-demand occupations in Wisconsin compare to Security Guard ($37,440 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Security Guard | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Police Officer in WI | $78,090 | +108.6% | $37.54/hr |
| Firefighter in WI | $46,850 | +25.1% | $22.52/hr |
| Tutor in WI | $37,820 | +1.0% | $18.18/hr |
| Restaurant Cook in WI | $36,550 | -2.4% | $17.57/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in WI | $36,340 | -2.9% | $17.47/hr |
| Air Traffic Controller in WI | $39,400 | +5.2% | $18.94/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in WI | $35,000 | -6.5% | $16.83/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in WI | $34,480 | -7.9% | $16.58/hr |
| Receptionist in WI | $41,150 | +9.9% | $19.78/hr |
| Cashier in WI | $30,880 | -17.5% | $14.85/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in WI | $45,130 | +20.5% | $21.70/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in WI | $29,670 | -20.8% | $14.26/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Security Guard in Wisconsin?
- The median Security Guard salary in Wisconsin is $37,440 annually, or $18 per hour. This median figure means half of security guards earn less, and half earn more, within the state.
What is the salary range for Security Guards in Wisconsin?
- The salary range for Security Guards in Wisconsin typically falls between $30,410 and $54,680 per year. This means that while the median is $37,440, some positions offer significantly less or more compensation.
How does the Security Guard salary in Wisconsin compare to the national average?
- Security Guard salaries in Wisconsin are 4.9% lower than the national average. While the median annual pay is $37,440 in Wisconsin, the national median is higher, reflecting regional economic differences.
How many Security Guards are employed in Wisconsin?
- There are approximately 12,030 Security Guards employed in Wisconsin. This substantial number indicates a steady demand for these professionals across various industries within the state.