Security Guards Salary in Riverside, CA

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA

Median annual salary $38,070 -0.8% vs national
Median hourly $18.31
10th percentile $35,430
90th percentile $56,230
Employed locally 21,090
National median $38,370

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Security Guards
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    In Riverside, CA, the typical security guard earns a median annual salary of $38,070, which is slightly below the national median for this occupation at $38,370. When compared to the local area's median household income of $86,031, it becomes evident that security guards earn significantly less than the average household in Riverside. This disparity highlights the economic challenges faced by individuals within this profession, as their earnings account for just about 44% of the median household income in the region.

    Entry-level security guards in Riverside typically earn near the lower end of the salary spectrum, with salaries around $35,430 at the 10th percentile and $36,290 at the 25th percentile. In contrast, those with more experience can see their earnings rise substantially, reaching up to $44,660 at the 75th percentile and even as high as $56,230 at the 90th percentile. The differences in pay are driven by factors such as length of service, additional responsibilities, specialized skills, and certifications that experienced workers might possess. These elements not only enhance job performance but also increase an individual's value to employers, thereby justifying higher wages for seasoned professionals.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $35,430
    25th
    $36,290
    50th (median)
    $38,070
    75th
    $44,660
    90th
    $56,230

    Riverside economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $86,031 2023 • Census ACS
    Security Guards salary vs area income 44% Median Security Guards salary is 56% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Security Guards make per hour in Riverside?

    The median hourly wage for Security Guards in Riverside, CA is $18.31, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $26.98 or more per hour.

    Is Riverside above or below average for Security Guards salaries?

    The median Security Guards salary in Riverside, CA is 0.8% 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 Riverside?

    Entry-level Security Guards (10th percentile) earn around $35,430 per year in Riverside, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $36,290.