Security Guard Jobs Near Me: Pay in 2026 Turns Out Higher Than Many Expect

Security remains a steady need across the United States in 2026. Shopping centers, hospitals, office buildings, warehouses, construction sites, residential communities, schools, and event venues all require trained personnel to monitor access, patrol premises, respond to incidents, and maintain safety. Searches for security guard jobs near me, security guard services near me, security guard companies near me, security guard company near me, security guard positions near me, security guard job near me, and security guard agencies near me appear daily as people look for local openings. From February 2026, hourly earnings in many security roles rise noticeably due to updated minimum wage laws in several states, renewed collective bargaining agreements in the private security sector, and continued demand for reliable officers. Entry-level pay often starts higher than in previous years, and experienced guards see meaningful increases through shift differentials, overtime, and site-specific premiums.

Factors Driving Higher Pay in 2026

Several elements contribute to the upward movement:

State minimum wage increases take effect in early 2026 in multiple jurisdictions, setting stronger baselines for hourly roles.
The Private Security Sectoral Bargaining Council and similar agreements in key states negotiate higher base rates and improved benefits packages.
Persistent staffing shortages in healthcare facilities, data centers, logistics hubs, and high-traffic retail locations push employers to offer competitive wages to fill shifts.
Overtime remains common during peak seasons—holiday shopping, major events, construction booms, and severe weather response—adding time-and-a-half or double-time pay.

National averages for security guards in 2026 range from $18 to $28 per hour for entry-level and mid-experience roles, with many positions paying $20–$35 per hour depending on location, shift type, and site requirements. Annual earnings for full-time guards frequently fall between $40,000 and $65,000 before overtime, with higher figures in urban centers and specialized assignments.

Types of Security Positions Available

Opportunities vary by setting and responsibilities:

Static Guard / Gatehouse Roles
Monitoring entrances, checking IDs, logging visitors, and controlling access at office parks, apartment complexes, schools, and industrial sites. Day shifts (typically 6:00 AM–2:00 PM or 7:00 AM–3:00 PM) suit many who prefer regular hours. Pay often ranges from $19 to $26 per hour in 2026.
Patrol Officers
Walking or driving rounds in retail centers, warehouses, hospitals, and residential communities. Mobile patrols cover larger areas and respond to alarms or incidents. Evening and overnight shifts carry higher rates ($22–$32 per hour) due to demand.
Event Security
Crowd management, bag checks, and access control at concerts, sporting events, festivals, and corporate gatherings. These roles often pay $25–$40 per hour, with opportunities for weekend or seasonal work.
Healthcare and Institutional Security
Access control, visitor screening, and de-escalation in hospitals, nursing homes, and behavioral health facilities. These positions value calm demeanor and often include shift differentials, bringing hourly pay to $23–$35.
Construction Site Security
Perimeter checks, equipment monitoring, and preventing theft or vandalism at active build sites. Day shifts are common, with rates typically $20–$30 per hour.

Many positions require a state-issued security guard card or license, obtained through a short training course (8–40 hours depending on state). Employers frequently cover or reimburse the cost for new hires.

Where to Find Openings in 2026

Job postings concentrate in:

Major metropolitan areas (New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Miami, Atlanta) – high-volume retail, healthcare, and office security needs.
Industrial corridors (Dallas-Fort Worth, Atlanta metro, Inland Empire CA, Northern New Jersey) – warehouse and logistics facilities.
Growing suburbs and retirement communities – gated neighborhoods, senior living campuses, and medical centers.
College towns and event-heavy cities – campus security, stadiums, and convention centers.

Openings appear on company websites (Allied Universal, Securitas, G4S, GardaWorld), job boards, local Facebook groups, and community boards at libraries or senior centers.

Getting Started in Security Work

The path remains straightforward:

Obtain a state security guard license (requirements vary but usually include background check, fingerprints, and short training).
Prepare a resume highlighting reliability, customer service experience, or any prior security-related work.
Apply to local companies using terms like security guard jobs near me or security guard positions near me.
Attend interviews focused on availability, situational judgment, and professionalism.
Complete company orientation, site-specific training, and any required certifications (CPR, first aid, de-escalation).

Many employers hire year-round and train new officers on the job. Day shifts and part-time options accommodate family schedules or semi-retirement plans.

Practical Benefits of Security Roles

These positions provide:

Predictable schedules with options for daytime hours.
Opportunities for overtime during events or peak seasons.
Clear advancement paths to supervisor, site manager, or specialized roles.
Contribution to keeping communities, businesses, and events safe.
Steady demand with less seasonal fluctuation than some fields.

In 2026, security work offers reliable employment for those seeking hands-on roles with fair compensation and structured hours.

Moving Forward

February 2026 brings stronger pay in many security positions nationwide. Demand stays consistent in retail, healthcare, logistics, residential, and event sectors.

Checking local job postings, company websites, and community boards reveals current openings. For individuals looking for steady work with solid earnings, security guard roles provide practical opportunities in familiar settings