Security Guards Salary in California (2025)
✓ Sourced directly from BLS OES · Checked for accuracy at every rebuild · First published: 2026-08-25 · Last updated: 2026-10-25
BLS OES May 2025 · SOC 33-9032As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links below are affiliate links.
Overview
The median wage for security guards in California is $43,240 per year (gross, before tax) — 13.7% above the US national median of $38,020 for this occupation. Figures are from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025). Around 199,000 people work in this occupation in California. Negotiating an offer in California? A good salary negotiation guide helps you make the case for the upper percentiles.
California Salary Percentiles
| Percentile | Annual (gross) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $36,010 | Entry level / lowest decile |
| 25th | $37,180 | Early career |
| 50th (median) | $43,240 | Typical pay |
| 75th | $46,760 | Experienced |
| 90th | $57,880 | Senior / highest decile |
Career Essentials
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Start $1 Trial →How California Compares
| State | Median salary | vs national |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $64,210 | +68.9% |
| Alaska | $47,480 | +24.9% |
| Washington | $47,100 | +23.9% |
| Vermont | $45,550 | +19.8% |
| Oregon | $45,500 | +19.7% |
| New Hampshire | $45,200 | +18.9% |
| Colorado | $45,150 | +18.8% |
| Massachusetts | $44,670 | +17.5% |
| New York | $44,240 | +16.4% |
| Virginia | $43,640 | +14.8% |
| California | $43,240 | +13.7% |
All states for security guards →
Recommended Gear & Prep
Interviewing in California? Interview prep books cover the common question sets.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a security guards in California?
The median salary in California is $43,240 per year (gross, before tax), based on BLS OES May 2025 data. The mean is $44,920.
How does California pay compare to the US national average?
California is 13.7% above the US national median of $38,020 for this occupation.
Which US state pays security guards the most?
District of Columbia has the highest median pay for this occupation at $64,210 per year. See the state comparison table above for more.
Data: BLS OES, May 2025 · Page built 2026-10-25