Security Guard Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median security guard salary in Durham, NC is $33,013 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Security Guard Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median security guard salary of $33,013, which is $1,043 above the North Carolina state average of $31,970. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% 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 Durham spans from $23,750 at the 10th percentile to $49,400 at the 90th percentile — a $25,650 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $24,700, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $47,500. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Security Guard Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level security guard earns around $24,700, while experienced professionals earn up to $47,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,750 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,550 |
| Median (50th) | $33,013 |
| 75th Percentile | $39,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $49,400 |
Security Guard Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Durham
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina 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 Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Durham
Browse open security guard positions in Durham, NC: