Security Guards in Washington
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Washington | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $48,010 | $38,370 | +25.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #3 of 54 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 24,820 jobs | 1,241,770 jobs | 2.0% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Washington
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $38,030 | $18.29 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,640 | $20.50 |
| Median | $48,010 | $23.08 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,040 | $27.91 |
| 90th Percentile | $73,480 | $35.33 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Security Guards in Washington in 2026?
With a median salary of $48,010 in Washington and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +67.6%, security guards are still in strong and growing demand.
How can security guards increase their salary in Washington?
Security Guards in Washington 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: Washington currently ranks #3 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 Washington?
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 Washington compared to the national average?
The median salary for Security Guards in Washington is $48,010, which is 25.1% above the national median of $38,370.