Salary distribution
Where District of Columbia security guards fall on the wage curve.
Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)
The middle 50% of workers earn between $46,040 and $74,460, with a median of $63,130.
Security Guards pay by experience level in District of Columbia
Each band reflects DOL Wage Levels I-IV mapped onto a four-step ladder. Click a level to see the disclosed-wage range for that segment.
Wage trend
Median annual wage in District of Columbia over the past 2 BLS OES releases. Real values are CPI-adjusted to 2024 dollars.
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.
10-year outlook
Growth 2024 → 2034
+0.4%
Projected annual openings
—
BLS outlook
Slower than average
Source: BLS Employment Projections, 2024–2034 cycle.
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Metro-level salary data for security guards in major District of Columbia metropolitan areas.
- Washington, D.C.$47,260
Compare Security Guards pay across nearby states
Frequently asked questions
- What is the median salary for Security Guards in District of Columbia?
- According to BLS Occupational Employment Statistics, the median annual wage for Security Guards in District of Columbia is $63,130.
- How does District of Columbia compare to the national median for Security Guards?
- The District of Columbia median is +59.3% versus the BLS national figure of $39,633.
- What is the salary range for Security Guards in District of Columbia?
- BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $36,840 and the 90th-percentile at $79,020, which captures most full-time workers in the role.
- Is Security Guards a growing field?
- BLS Employment Projections show employment growing by 0.4% over the projection cycle. See the 10-year outlook section above for details.
- 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. Wage data reflects BLS estimates 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.