Unarmed Security Guard

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for security guards is $19.96 as of May 2026. The lowest 10 percent earn $14.00 per hour, while the highest 10 percent earn $28.75 per hour. Annual median pay totals $41,500 for full-time workers.

As per the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division, the federal minimum wage for security guards under FLSA is $7.25 per hour as of January 1, 2026. Overtime pay is required at 1.5 times the regular rate for all hours worked over 40 in a workweek. 30 states mandate higher rates, such as $16.50 per hour in California.

As per U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, security guard jobs typically qualify under H-2B temporary non-agricultural worker visas with a FY2026 cap of 66,000 visas plus supplemental allocations up to 64,000. Employers must file Form I-129 with a $460 fee and obtain temporary labor certification from DOL. H-1B visas do not apply due to lack of specialty occupation status.

As per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, no formal postsecondary education is required, but a high school diploma or GED is preferred by 70 percent of employers. Entry-level positions need no prior experience, though 40 hours of on-the-job training is standard. Applicants must be 18 years old with a clean criminal background.