Security Guards Salary in Portland, OR-WA

In Portland, OR-WA, security guards earn a median annual salary of $44,960, which translates to approximately $21.61 per hour. This figure is notably higher than the national median for security guards, which stands at $38,370 annually. When compared to the area's median household income of $94,573, it becomes evident that security guard earnings constitute less than half of this local benchmark. Despite this disparity, security guards in Portland are compensated more favorably relative to many other occupations within the region, reflecting both demand for their services and a relatively low local unemployment rate of 4.00%. This comparison underscores the economic positioning of security guards within the broader employment landscape of Portland.

Entry-level security guards in Portland typically earn around $37,900 annually (10th percentile), while those at the 25th percentile make approximately $39,340 per year. As experience and tenure increase, earnings can rise substantially; individuals at the 75th percentile earn about $48,970 annually, with top earners reaching up to $68,230 at the 90th percentile. The significant salary range from entry-level to experienced positions highlights various factors that drive compensation differences, including job responsibilities, working conditions, and levels of expertise required. Additionally, employment stability, potential for overtime work, and unionization can further influence earnings disparities among security guards in this area.