How to Become a Security Guards in California
Security Guards in California earn a median salary of $43,930/year, which is 14% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~2.1%. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,621/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in California
Becoming a security guards in California
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 185,510 security guards. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Santa Cruz-Watsonville.
Security Guards salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $47K | $22.47/hr | 25,400 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $46K | $22.13/hr | 530 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $46K | $22.08/hr | 10,150 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $46K | $22.05/hr | 570 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $46K | $21.95/hr | 1,530 |
| Napa | $44K | $20.94/hr | 840 |
| Salinas | $43K | $20.81/hr | 1,350 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $43K | $20.64/hr | 77,910 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $43K | $20.54/hr | 840 |
| Hanford-Corcoran | $42K | $20.21/hr | 280 |
| Vallejo | $42K | $20.08/hr | 990 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $41K | $19.89/hr | 13,370 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $41K | $19.66/hr | 10,920 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $40K | $19.36/hr | 1,940 |
| Redding | $40K | $19.16/hr | 430 |
Security Guards salary range in California
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in California?▼
The median security guards salary in California is $43,930 per year ($21.12/hr). This is 14% above the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $36,180 to $59,320.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in California?▼
Security Guards positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $43,930, a security guards in California would take home approximately $3,033/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($46,740), Santa Cruz-Watsonville ($46,030), San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($45,930). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for security guards?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.1%. On a $43,930 salary, this means roughly $938/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.