Security Guard Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median security guard salary in Raleigh, NC is $34,055 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Security Guard Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median security guard salary of $34,055, which is $2,085 above the North Carolina state average of $31,970. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $24,500 at the 10th percentile to $50,960 at the 90th percentile — a $26,460 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $25,480, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $49,000. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Security Guard Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level security guard earns around $25,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $49,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,500 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,420 |
| Median (50th) | $34,055 |
| 75th Percentile | $41,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $50,960 |
Security Guard Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Raleigh
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open security guard positions in Raleigh, NC: