Security Guard Salary in Pennsylvania
The median security guard salary in Pennsylvania is $33,360 per year, which is 4% below the national median of $34,750.
Security Guard Salary Overview in Pennsylvania (2026)
Pennsylvania ranks #23 out of 50 states for security guard compensation. Pennsylvania falls in the middle of the pack for security guard pay, offering salaries near the national average. At $33,360 per year, security guards in Pennsylvania earn $1,390 less than the national median of $34,750.
Pennsylvania's cost of living is near the national average at 96%, meaning security guard salaries here translate closely to their face value in purchasing power.
The salary spread in Pennsylvania is significant: security guards at the 10th percentile earn $24,000, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $49,920 — a $25,920 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in Pennsylvania for this role is Philadelphia, where the median reaches $35,445.
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 Pennsylvania by Experience
In Pennsylvania, an entry-level security guard earns around $24,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $48,000 per year. The cost of living index in Pennsylvania is 96% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | PA Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $24,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $27,840 |
| Median (50th) | $33,360 |
| 75th Percentile | $40,320 |
| 90th Percentile | $49,920 |
Security Guard Salary by City in Pennsylvania
The largest employment areas for security guards in Pennsylvania include Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown, and Reading. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Security Guard in Pennsylvania
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Pennsylvania has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Pennsylvania
Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Pennsylvania's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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