Security Guard Salary in Nashville, Tennessee
The median security guard salary in Nashville, TN is $34,750 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the Tennessee state average.
Security Guard Pay in Nashville: What to Expect (2026)
Nashville offers a median security guard salary of $34,750, which is $3,822 above the Tennessee state average of $30,928. Compared to the national median of $34,750, Nashville pays above average for this role.
Nashville's cost of living is 100% 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 Nashville spans from $25,000 at the 10th percentile to $52,000 at the 90th percentile — a $27,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $26,000, while senior security guards with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $50,000. As a major metro area with a population of 689,447, Nashville typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Security Guard Salary in Nashville by Experience
In Nashville, an entry-level security guard earns around $26,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $50,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Nashville, TN
| Percentile | Nashville |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $29,000 |
| Median (50th) | $34,750 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $52,000 |
Security Guard Salary in Other Tennessee Cities
How to Become a Security Guard in Nashville
Education
Most security guard positions require a high school diploma. Nashville and the surrounding Tennessee 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 Nashville may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Security Guard Jobs in Nashville
Browse open security guard positions in Nashville, TN: