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METRO DATA PROFILE · 2024

Security Guards salary in Seattle, Washington

Metro-level median, range, and employment from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics for the Seattle 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$48,400
Mean annual$53,000
Range (10th to 90th)$39,410 to $72,710
Seattle, Washington employment16,320
State vs national+22.1% vs national

Salary distribution

Where Seattle security guards fall on the wage curve.

Annual wage distribution

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

10TH$39,41025TH$44,810MEDIAN$48,40075TH$57,98090TH$72,710

The middle 50% of workers earn between $44,810 and $57,980, with a median of $48,400.

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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Frequently asked questions

What is the median salary for Security Guards in Seattle, Washington?
According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, the median annual wage for Security Guards in the Seattle metropolitan area is $48,400.
Does Seattle pay more than the Washington state average for Security Guards?
The Seattle metro median is +0.8% versus the Washington state median of $48,010.
How does Seattle compare to the national median for Security Guards?
The Seattle metro median is +22.1% versus the BLS national figure of $39,633.
What is the salary range for Security Guards in Seattle?
BLS reports the 10th-percentile annual wage at $39,410 and the 90th-percentile at $72,710 for the Seattle 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 Seattle 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.