Security Guards Salary in Greenville, SC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Greenville-Anderson-Greer, SC

Median annual salary $33,740 -12.1% vs national
Median hourly $16.22
10th percentile $28,140
90th percentile $43,700
Employed locally 3,120
National median $38,370

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    In Greenville, SC, security guards earn a median annual salary of $33,740, which translates to approximately $16.22 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national median for this occupation at $38,370. When compared to the local household income, which stands at $69,016, it becomes evident that security guards' earnings make up roughly 49% of a typical Greenville household's median income. This comparison underscores the financial challenges faced by individuals in this role relative to the broader community’s earning capacity.

    For entry-level security guards in Greenville, SC, salaries tend to hover around the 10th percentile mark at approximately $28,140 annually. In contrast, those with more experience and possibly additional responsibilities or certifications can earn upwards of $43,700 annually, aligning with the 90th percentile. The significant difference between these earnings levels is driven by factors such as length of service, specialized skills, educational background, and performance-based incentives. Experienced workers are often entrusted with supervisory roles or tasked with more critical assignments, which justifies the higher compensation bracket they fall into.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $28,140
    25th
    $29,430
    50th (median)
    $33,740
    75th
    $37,950
    90th
    $43,700

    Greenville economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $69,016 2023 • Census ACS
    Security Guards salary vs area income 49% Median Security Guards salary is 51% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Security Guards make per hour in Greenville?

    The median hourly wage for Security Guards in Greenville, SC is $16.22, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $21.73 or more per hour.

    Is Greenville above or below average for Security Guards salaries?

    The median Security Guards salary in Greenville, SC is 12.1% below the national median of $38,370. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Security Guards in Greenville?

    Entry-level Security Guards (10th percentile) earn around $28,140 per year in Greenville, SC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $29,430.