Public Service Massachusetts (MA) Rank #3 of 50

Security Guard Salary in Massachusetts

The median security guard salary in Massachusetts is $46,913 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $34,750.

Median Salary
$46,913
vs National
+$12,163
State Rank
#3 of 50
Cost of Living
135%

Security Guard Salary Overview in Massachusetts (2026)

Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for security guard compensation. This places Massachusetts in the top tier nationally, making it one of the best states for security guards seeking high pay. At $46,913 per year, security guards in Massachusetts earn $12,163 more than the national median of $34,750.

It's worth noting that Massachusetts's cost of living is 135% of the national average, which reduces the real purchasing power of the $46,913 salary. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective salary is closer to $34,750.

The salary spread in Massachusetts is significant: security guards at the 10th percentile earn $33,750, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $70,200 — a $36,450 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Massachusetts for this role is Cambridge, where the median reaches $55,600.

Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for security guards across the country.

Security Guard Salary in Massachusetts by Experience

In Massachusetts, an entry-level security guard earns around $35,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $67,500 per year. The cost of living index in Massachusetts is 135% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$35,100
+$9,100 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$48,600
+$12,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$67,500
+$17,500 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in Massachusetts

Percentile MA Salary
10th Percentile $33,750
25th Percentile $39,150
Median (50th) $46,913
75th Percentile $56,700
90th Percentile $70,200

Security Guard Salary by City in Massachusetts

The largest employment areas for security guards in Massachusetts include Boston, Worcester, Springfield, and Cambridge. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Security Guard in Massachusetts

Education

Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Massachusetts has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SurveillanceAccess ControlReport WritingCommunicationObservationCPR/First Aid

Job Outlook in Massachusetts

Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Massachusetts's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Security Guard Salary in Massachusetts

How much does a Security Guard make in Massachusetts? ▼
The median security guard salary in Massachusetts is $46,913 per year, which is 35.0% above the national median of $34,750. Salaries range from $33,750 (10th percentile) to $70,200 (90th percentile).
How much does a Security Guard make per hour in Massachusetts? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $46,913, a security guard in Massachusetts earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is Massachusetts a good state for security guards? ▼
Massachusetts ranks #3 out of 50 states for security guard pay. The cost of living index is 135% of the national average. Entry-level security guards earn $35,100, while senior professionals earn $67,500.
How does Massachusetts compare to other states for security guard salary? ▼
The highest paying state for security guards is Hawaii at $59,075. Massachusetts's median of $46,913 ranks #3 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Hawaii ($59,075) and California ($47,955).
What is the entry-level security guard salary in Massachusetts? ▼
An entry-level security guard in Massachusetts earns approximately $35,100 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $48,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $67,500.
What city in Massachusetts pays security guards the most? ▼
Cambridge is the highest paying city in Massachusetts for security guards, with a median salary of $55,600. Other cities include Boston and Worcester.