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Public Safety · Arizona

How to Become a Security Guards in Arizona

Security Guards in Arizona earn a median salary of $38,560/year, which is 0% above the national average. Arizona has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,259/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$39K
Median salary in Arizona
+0%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
26,720
Employed in Arizona

What a security guards can afford in Arizona

Gross annual salary$38,560
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$2,671/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arizona)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home52.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$38,560/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,259/mo

Becoming a security guards in Arizona

1

Meet education requirements

Security Guards positions in Arizona typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arizona. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many security guards positions in Arizona require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arizona licensure or certification

Arizona may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arizona Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arizona

Arizona employs 26,720 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Flagstaff and Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler.

Security Guards salary by metro area in Arizona

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Flagstaff$41K$19.67/hr300
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler$39K$18.54/hr21,140
Prescott Valley-Prescott$38K$18.31/hr290
Tucson$38K$18.2/hr2,600
Sierra Vista-Douglas$37K$17.78/hr300
Yuma$36K$17.26/hr570
Lake Havasu City-Kingman$34K$16.27/hr330

Security Guards salary range in Arizona

10th percentile (entry)
$32K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$39K
75th percentile
$44K
90th percentile (senior)
$50K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a security guards make in Arizona?

The median security guards salary in Arizona is $38,560 per year ($18.54/hr). This is 0% above the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $32,480 to $49,900.

What are the requirements to become a security guards in Arizona?

Security Guards positions in Arizona typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Arizona may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arizona licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a security guards afford to live in Arizona?

At the median salary of $38,560, a security guards in Arizona would take home approximately $2,671/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 52.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for security guards in Arizona?

The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Arizona are Flagstaff ($40,920), Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler ($38,560), Prescott Valley-Prescott ($38,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arizona have state income tax for security guards?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $38,560 salary, this means roughly $964/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.