Salary distribution
Where San Francisco security guards fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $44,440 and $55,060, with a median of $46,740.
Typical entry
Education
High school diploma
Experience
None
On-the-job training
Short-term on-the-job training
Top skills (O*NET)
- 4.7 / 5
Public Safety and Security
Knowledge
- 4.5 / 5
Customer and Personal Service
Knowledge
- 4.3 / 5
English Language
Knowledge
- 4.1 / 5
Computers and Electronics
Knowledge
- 4.0 / 5
Administration and Management
Knowledge
- 3.9 / 5
Problem Sensitivity
Ability
- 3.8 / 5
Education and Training
Knowledge
- 3.8 / 5
Telecommunications
Knowledge
Common tasks (O*NET)
- 01
Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.
- 02
Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.
- 03
Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.
- 04
Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.
- 05
Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.
- 06
Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.
- 07
Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.
- 08
Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.
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How the San Francisco metro compares to other major California metro areas for security guards.
- San Jose$45,930
- Los Angeles$42,940
- San Diego$41,380
- Sacramento$40,900
- Riverside$38,070
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Security Guards in San Francisco, California?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Security Guards in the San Francisco metropolitan area is $46,740.
- Does San Francisco pay more than the California state average for Security Guards?
- The San Francisco metro median is +6.4% versus the California state median of $43,930.
- How does San Francisco compare to the national median for Security Guards?
- The San Francisco metro median is +17.9% versus the BLS national figure of $39,633.
- What is the salary range for Security Guards in San Francisco?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $41,720 and the 90th-percentile at $62,710 for the San Francisco metro area.
- What education is required for Security Guards?
- BLS lists the typical entry-level education as High school diploma. Many employers also weigh prior experience and credentials.
Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the San Francisco CBSA boundary for the reference year shown and may not match individual offers, employer-specific ranges, or current market conditions. Confirm with a licensed professional before making career or compensation decisions.