Security Guard Salary in Tennessee
The median security guard salary in Tennessee is $30,928 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $34,750.
Security Guard Salary Overview in Tennessee (2026)
Tennessee ranks #41 out of 50 states for security guard compensation. Security Guard salaries in Tennessee are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $30,928 per year, security guards in Tennessee earn $3,822 less than the national median of $34,750.
A key advantage of working in Tennessee 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 Tennessee 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 Tennessee for this role is Nashville, where the median reaches $34,750.
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 Tennessee by Experience
In Tennessee, 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 Tennessee is 89% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in Tennessee
| Percentile | TN 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 Tennessee
The largest employment areas for security guards in Tennessee include Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, and Chattanooga. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.
How to Become a Security Guard in Tennessee
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Tennessee has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in Tennessee
Nationally, security guard employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Tennessee's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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