Security Guard Salary in Des Moines, Iowa
The median security guard salary in Des Moines, IA is $31,970 per year, which is 8% below the national median and 3.4% above the Iowa state average.
Security Guard Pay in Des Moines: What to Expect (2026)
Des Moines offers a median security guard salary of $31,970, which is $1,042 above the Iowa state average of $30,928. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Des Moines pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Des Moines's cost of living is 92% 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 Des Moines spans from $23,000 at the 10th percentile to $47,840 at the 90th percentile — a $24,840 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $23,920, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $46,000. With a population of 214,133, Des Moines is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Security Guard Salary in Des Moines by Experience
In Des Moines, an entry-level security guard earns around $23,920, while experienced professionals earn up to $46,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 92% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Des Moines, IA
| Percentile | Des Moines |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $26,680 |
| Median (50th) | $31,970 |
| 75th Percentile | $38,640 |
| 90th Percentile | $47,840 |
Security Guard Salary in Other Iowa Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Des Moines
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Des Moines and the surrounding Iowa 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 Des Moines may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Des Moines
Browse open security guard positions in Des Moines, IA: