Security Guard Salary in South Carolina
The median security guard salary in South Carolina is $30,928 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $34,750.
Security Guard Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for security guard compensation. Security Guard salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $30,928 per year, security guards in South Carolina earn $3,822 less than the national median of $34,750.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $30,928 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $34,751 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: security guards at the 10th percentile earn $22,250, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $46,280 — a $24,030 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $36,488.
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 South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level security guard earns around $23,140, while experienced professionals earn up to $44,500 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
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Earning $30,928? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $22,250 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,810 |
| Median (50th) | $30,928 |
| 75th Percentile | $37,380 |
| 90th Percentile | $46,280 |
Security Guard Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for security guards in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Security Guard in South Carolina
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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