Security Guard Salary in Atlanta, Georgia
The median security guard salary in Atlanta, GA is $35,445 per year, which is 2.0% above the national median and 9.7% above the Georgia state average.
Security Guard Pay in Atlanta: What to Expect (2026)
Atlanta offers a median security guard salary of $35,445, which is $3,127 above the Georgia state average of $32,318. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Atlanta pays above average for this role.
Atlanta's cost of living is 102% 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 Atlanta spans from $25,500 at the 10th percentile to $53,040 at the 90th percentile — a $27,540 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,520, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $51,000. With a population of 498,715, Atlanta is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Security Guard Salary in Atlanta by Experience
In Atlanta, an entry-level security guard earns around $26,520, while experienced professionals earn up to $51,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 102% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Atlanta, GA
| Percentile | Atlanta |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,580 |
| Median (50th) | $35,445 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,840 |
| 90th Percentile | $53,040 |
Security Guard Salary in Other Georgia Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Atlanta
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Atlanta 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 Atlanta may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Atlanta
Browse open security guard positions in Atlanta, GA: