Security Guard Salary in Pennsylvania

Security Guards in Pennsylvania earn an average of $36,245 per year across 2 metro areas. This is +2.3% lower than the national average.

Average Salary

$36,245

per year

Hourly Rate

$17.43

per hour

vs National

-2.3%

$37,110 national

Salary Range

$22,869

to $51,900

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

Nominal Salary

$36,245

Cost of Living Index

99

100 = national average

Adjusted Salary

$36,611

purchasing power equivalent

After adjusting for Pennsylvania's cost of living (below average), a Security Guard's salary of $36,245 has the purchasing power of $36,611 in an average-cost area.

Security Guard Salary by City in Pennsylvania

CityMedian SalaryHourly RateEntry Level (P10)Senior (P90)Employment
Philadelphia, PA$38,062$18.30/hr$24,233$54,3191,377
Pittsburgh, PA$34,428$16.55/hr$21,505$49,481979

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS Survey, 2026. Sorted by median salary (highest first).

Pennsylvania vs National Average

Security Guard Salary Comparison

Pennsylvania Average$36,245
National Average$37,110
Difference-$865 (-2.3%)

Employment in Pennsylvania

There are approximately 2,356 Security Guards employed across 2 metro areas in Pennsylvania.

Key Industries: Healthcare, Education, Manufacturing

State Income Tax: 3.07% flat rate

Security Guard Salary Range in Pennsylvania

Entry Level (10th Percentile)

$22,869

Starting salary for new Security Guards

Median (50th Percentile)

$36,245

Mid-career Security Guard salary

Senior (90th Percentile)

$51,900

Top earners in the field

Security Guard Salary in Neighboring States

Compare Security Guard salaries in Pennsylvania with nearby states to find the best opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Security Guard salary in Pennsylvania?

The average Security Guard salary in Pennsylvania is $36,245 per year ($17.43/hour) based on 2026 data across 2 metro areas. This is 2.3% below the national average of $37,110.

What is the highest paying city for Security Guards in Pennsylvania?

Philadelphia, PA is the highest paying city for Security Guards in Pennsylvania, with a median salary of $38,062 per year. The lowest paying metro area is Pittsburgh, PA at $34,428.

What is the salary range for Security Guards in Pennsylvania?

Security Guard salaries in Pennsylvania range from $22,869 (entry-level, 10th percentile) to $51,900 (experienced, 90th percentile). The median salary is $36,245 per year.

About This Data

Salary data is sourced from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. State-level averages are calculated from metro area data within Pennsylvania. Figures represent 2026 estimates and may not reflect all employers or self-employed workers. Cost of living adjustments use regional indices to provide purchasing power context.