Security Guards in Kentucky
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Kentucky | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $35,520 | $38,370 | -7.4% vs US |
| State Rank | #46 of 54 states | ||
| Employment | 13,500 jobs | 1,241,770 jobs | 1.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $28,680 | $13.79 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,780 | $14.80 |
| Median | $35,520 | $17.08 |
| 75th Percentile | $39,340 | $18.91 |
| 90th Percentile | $48,730 | $23.43 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Security Guards in Kentucky in 2026?
With a median salary of $35,520 in Kentucky and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +69.2%, security guards are still in strong and growing demand.
How can security guards increase their salary in Kentucky?
Security Guards in Kentucky can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Kentucky currently ranks #46 out of 54 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Security Guards in Kentucky?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Natural Gas Distribution | $94,160 |
| Motion Picture and Video Exhibition | $91,510 |
| Rail Transportation | $82,690 |
How are Security Guards paid in Kentucky compared to the national average?
The median salary for Security Guards in Kentucky is $35,520, which is 7.4% below the national median of $38,370.