Security Guard Salary in Missouri
The median security guard salary in Missouri is $30,580 per year, which is 12% below the national median of $34,750.
Security Guard Salary Overview in Missouri (2026)
Missouri ranks #42 out of 50 states for security guard compensation. Security Guard salaries in Missouri are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $30,580 per year, security guards in Missouri earn $4,170 less than the national median of $34,750.
A key advantage of working in Missouri is its below-average cost of living (88% of the national index). This means the $30,580 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $34,750 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in Missouri is significant: security guards at the 10th percentile earn $22,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $45,760 — a $23,760 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Missouri for this role is Kansas City, where the median reaches $31,970.
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 Missouri by Experience
In Missouri, an entry-level security guard earns around $22,880, while experienced professionals earn up to $44,000 per year. The cost of living index in Missouri is 88% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Missouri
| Percentile | MO Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $22,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,520 |
| Median (50th) | $30,580 |
| 75th Percentile | $36,960 |
| 90th Percentile | $45,760 |
Security Guard Salary by City in Missouri
The largest employment areas for security guards in Missouri include Kansas City, Saint Louis, Springfield, and Columbia. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Security Guard in Missouri
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Missouri has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Missouri
Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Missouri's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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