Security Guard Salary in Athens, Georgia
The median security guard salary in Athens, GA is $31,275 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 3.2% below the Georgia state average.
Security Guard Pay in Athens: What to Expect (2026)
Athens offers a median security guard salary of $31,275, which is $1,043 below the Georgia state average of $32,318. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Athens pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Athens's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for security guards in Athens spans from $22,500 at the 10th percentile to $46,800 at the 90th percentile — a $24,300 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $23,400, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $45,000. With a population of 127,064, Athens is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Security Guard Salary in Athens by Experience
In Athens, an entry-level security guard earns around $23,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $45,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Athens, GA
| Percentile | Athens |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $22,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,100 |
| Median (50th) | $31,275 |
| 75th Percentile | $37,800 |
| 90th Percentile | $46,800 |
Security Guard Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Athens
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Athens and the surrounding Georgia area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Athens may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Athens
Browse open security guard positions in Athens, GA: