Security officers are responsible for protecting people, property, and businesses. From patrolling office buildings and shopping malls to monitoring hospital facilities and government sites, they form an essential part of public and private safety. In 2025, security officers remain in high demand, with opportunities across industries ranging from retail to aviation.
This guide provides a complete overview of security officer salaries in the U.S., with breakdowns by experience level, state, and industry, along with factors that influence pay and the future outlook of the profession.
Average Security Officer Salary in the U.S.
According to recent labor data, the average hourly wage for security officers in the U.S. is $17.50, which equals about $36,000 annually for full-time workers. Pay varies widely depending on location, experience, and type of security job.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Average Hourly Pay | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 yrs) | $15 – $16 | $31,000 – $33,000 |
| Mid-Level (3–5 yrs) | $17 – $18 | $35,000 – $38,000 |
| Senior (5+ yrs) | $20 – $22 | $41,000 – $46,000 |
| Supervisor/Armed | $25+ | $50,000+ |
A security officer with advanced training and armed certification can earn over 60% more than a new hire with minimal experience.
Security Officer Salary by State
Wages vary significantly depending on the state. Higher-paying states tend to be those with large urban centers, higher costs of living, and greater security needs.
State-by-State Comparison
| State | Avg. Hourly Pay | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $21.50 | $44,700 | Driven by cost of living and demand in cities like LA & SF |
| New York | $20.80 | $43,200 | High demand in NYC, finance sector |
| Washington | $19.80 | $41,100 | Seattle tech hubs boost pay |
| Texas | $16.20 | $33,700 | Lower cost of living, moderate wages |
| Florida | $15.00 | $31,200 | Large tourism industry, but lower pay |
| Illinois | $17.80 | $37,000 | Chicago metro area raises wages |
Key Insight: A security officer in California earns nearly $13,000 more annually than one in Florida, even in similar roles.
Security Officer Salary by Industry
Security officers work in multiple sectors, from malls and offices to airports and hospitals. Salaries vary based on the risk level and responsibilities of the job.
Industry Breakdown
| Industry | Avg. Hourly Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Private Security Firms | $16 – $18 | Covers retail, events, offices |
| Hospitals & Healthcare | $18 – $19 | Stable demand, benefits often included |
| Government Contracts | $20 – $23 | Federal & state contracts pay higher |
| Airports & Transportation | $21 – $24 | High responsibility roles, TSA roles higher |
| Corporate Security | $22+ | Executive protection, sensitive sites |
Takeaway: Specialized security roles, especially those in airports or government facilities, often pay the most.
Factors That Influence Pay
Several variables determine a security officer’s salary:
- Armed vs. Unarmed – Armed security officers earn significantly more due to required certifications and higher responsibility.
- Licensing – States with stricter licensing often pay more.
- Unionization – Union-backed positions, especially in government contracts, have better wages and benefits.
- Experience – Supervisory roles or senior officers earn much more than entry-level hires.
- Work Setting – Corporate and government contracts pay better than retail or event security.
- Shift Work – Night shifts and overtime can increase earnings by 10–20%.
Work Hours and Lifestyle
Most full-time security officers work 40 hours per week, though many roles require overtime, weekends, and holiday coverage.
- Standard Hours: 8-hour or 12-hour shifts.
- Overtime: Common in high-demand industries like airports or hospitals.
- Part-Time: Event security roles are often part-time and hourly.
While the work provides job stability, it can also be physically demanding and stressful, especially in high-risk environments.
Salary Outlook & Future Trends
The outlook for security officers in the U.S. remains strong.
- Job Growth: The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects demand for security officers to grow steadily through 2032 due to rising concerns about safety and crime.
- Technology Integration: AI-powered surveillance and advanced monitoring systems are changing the field, but human officers remain essential.
- Wage Growth: Minimum wage increases in several states will push up base salaries for entry-level security roles.
- Specialization: Demand for trained armed officers and cybersecurity-knowledgeable guards is increasing.
Security officers are vital across industries, from hospitals to shopping malls. In the United States, the average security officer earns $17.50 per hour ($36,000 annually), though wages range from $31,000 for new hires to $50,000+ for supervisors and armed officers.
Location, experience, and industry heavily influence pay, with California, New York, and Washington offering the highest wages. For those seeking stability and advancement, security offers long-term career potential, especially with specialized training.
Michael Anderson is a U.S.-based salary and labor market analyst with deep expertise in wage data, career trends, and cost-of-living analysis. At SmartSalaryGuide, he provides reliable, data-driven insights that help readers make informed career and financial decisions. With years of experience studying labor statistics and employment patterns, Michael has developed a reputation for translating complex economic data into clear, actionable guidance. His work empowers professionals, job seekers, and employers alike to better understand the dynamics of today’s job market and plan confidently for the future.