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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Security Guards salary in Richmond, Virginia

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Richmond metropolitan area. Skills and task data from O*NET. State and national figures shown for context.

Adrian Serafin, founder and editor of RateOrchardBy Adrian SerafinFounderUpdated April 30, 2026
Median annual$37,960
Mean annual$45,100
Range (10th to 90th)$31,380 to $70,100
Richmond, Virginia employment4,410
State vs national-4.2% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Richmond security guards fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

Shaded band = interquartile range (where most full-time workers fall)

10TH$31,38025TH$36,500MEDIAN$37,96075TH$48,37090TH$70,100

The middle 50% of workers earn between $36,500 and $48,370, with a median of $37,960.

Typical entry

  • Education

    High school diploma

  • Experience

    None

  • On-the-job training

    Short-term on-the-job training

Top skills (O*NET)

  • Public Safety and Security

    Knowledge

    4.7 / 5
  • Customer and Personal Service

    Knowledge

    4.5 / 5
  • English Language

    Knowledge

    4.3 / 5
  • Computers and Electronics

    Knowledge

    4.1 / 5
  • Administration and Management

    Knowledge

    4.0 / 5
  • Problem Sensitivity

    Ability

    3.9 / 5
  • Education and Training

    Knowledge

    3.8 / 5
  • Telecommunications

    Knowledge

    3.8 / 5

Common tasks (O*NET)

  1. 01

    Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.

  2. 02

    Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.

  3. 03

    Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.

  4. 04

    Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.

  5. 05

    Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.

  6. 06

    Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.

  7. 07

    Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.

  8. 08

    Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.

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Other metros in Virginia

How the Richmond metro compares to other major Virginia metro areas for security guards.

Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Security Guards in Richmond, Virginia?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Security Guards in the Richmond metropolitan area is $37,960.
Does Richmond pay more than the Virginia state average for Security Guards?
The Richmond metro median is -12.6% versus the Virginia state median of $43,440.
How does Richmond compare to the national median for Security Guards?
The Richmond metro median is -4.2% versus the BLS national figure of $39,633.
What is the salary range for Security Guards in Richmond?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $31,380 and the 90th-percentile at $70,100 for the Richmond 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.
Disclaimer

Information on this page is for general educational purposes only. It is not career, financial, or tax advice. BLS metro estimates reflect the Richmond 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.