Security Guards Salary in Indianapolis, IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Indianapolis-Carmel-Greenwood, IN

Median annual salary $39,030 +1.7% vs national
Median hourly $18.77
10th percentile $31,400
90th percentile $69,350
Employed locally 8,290
National median $38,370

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    In Indianapolis, Indiana, security guards earn a median annual salary of $39,030, which is slightly higher than the national median of $38,370 for this occupation. This translates to a median hourly wage of $18.77. When compared to the local median household income of $77,065, it's evident that the earnings from working as a security guard are approximately half of what an average household in Indianapolis earns annually. With an estimated employment number of 8,290 security guards in the area and a relatively low unemployment rate of 3.80%, this profession remains a significant part of the local job market.

    Entry-level security guards in Indianapolis typically earn around $31,400 annually, representing the 10th percentile, while those at the lower end of the salary spectrum (25th percentile) make approximately $35,220 per year. Conversely, experienced workers who reach the higher end of the earnings scale can expect to earn up to $46,080 at the 75th percentile and even as much as $69,350 at the 90th percentile. The disparity in wages between entry-level and seasoned professionals is driven by factors such as experience, additional certifications, responsibilities, and the specific nature or location of their assignments, which may command higher pay due to increased risks or required skill sets.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $31,400
    25th
    $35,220
    50th (median)
    $39,030
    75th
    $46,080
    90th
    $69,350

    Indianapolis economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.80% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $77,065 2023 • Census ACS
    Security Guards salary vs area income 51% Median Security Guards salary is 49% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Security Guards make per hour in Indianapolis?

    The median hourly wage for Security Guards in Indianapolis, IN is $18.77, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $28.55 or more per hour.

    Is Indianapolis above or below average for Security Guards salaries?

    The median Security Guards salary in Indianapolis, IN is 1.7% above 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 Indianapolis?

    Entry-level Security Guards (10th percentile) earn around $31,400 per year in Indianapolis, IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $35,220.