Security Guards Salary in Sacramento, CA
BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom, CA
Compare Security Guards salary & buying power
Type a city below to see how Sacramento, CA stacks up on salary and cost of living.
In Sacramento, CA, security guards typically earn a median annual salary of $40,900, which translates to a median hourly wage of $19.66. This figure is notably higher than the national median for security guards at $38,370, reflecting regional economic factors and cost of living adjustments in the area. When compared to local household income, the average earnings for security guards are significantly lower; the area's median household income stands at $93,986. This disparity underscores a common trend where many occupations in service or protection roles do not align with the broader income distribution within the community.
Entry-level security guards in Sacramento generally earn closer to the 10th percentile of salary data, around $36,750 annually. In contrast, more experienced workers can approach or exceed the 90th percentile, reaching up to $55,170 per year. This significant wage gap is primarily driven by factors such as experience level, length of service, additional responsibilities, and specialized training in areas like emergency response or armed security. These elements contribute to higher compensation for seasoned professionals who possess advanced skills and a proven track record, reflecting the value they bring to their roles within the industry.
Salary percentile breakdown
Sacramento economic context
Frequently asked questions
How much do Security Guards make per hour in Sacramento?
The median hourly wage for Security Guards in Sacramento, CA is $19.66, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $25.99 or more per hour.
Is Sacramento above or below average for Security Guards salaries?
The median Security Guards salary in Sacramento, CA is 6.6% 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 Sacramento?
Entry-level Security Guards (10th percentile) earn around $36,750 per year in Sacramento, CA. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $37,850.