Security Guards Salary in California
Security Guards in California earn a median of $43,240 a year, +14% compared with the U.S. median.
Updated October 2026 · Data: BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
- Median pay
- $43,240
- vs. U.S. median
- +14% ($38,020)
- Rank among states
- 13 of 51
- Jobs in the state
- 199,480
Pay range in California
The lowest-paid 10% earn under $36,010; the top 10% earn over $57,880. Nationally the range is $30,210 to $58,840.
States ranked near California
Similar jobs in California
- Correctional Officers and Jailers$96,370 median in California
- Transit and Railroad Police$109,650 median in California
- Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers$118,880 median in California
- Animal Control Workers$62,630 median in California
- Public Safety Telecommunicators$80,120 median in California
- Crossing Guards and Flaggers$50,610 median in California
Security Guards pay in California
How much do security guards make in California?
The median is $43,240 a year. The lowest-paid 10% earn under $36,010 and the top 10% earn over $57,880. BLS OEWS May 2025.
Is California a good state for security guards?
On pay alone it ranks 13 of 51 (+14% vs. the national median of $38,020). Living costs are not included.