How to Become a Security Guards in New York
Security Guards in New York earn a median salary of $42,680/year, which is 11% above the national average. New York has a state income tax of ~4.1%. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,471/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in New York
Becoming a security guards in New York
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in New York typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New York. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in New York require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain New York licensure or certification
New York may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New York Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in New York
New York employs 132,140 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Ithaca and Watertown-Fort Drum.
Security Guards salary by metro area in New York
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ithaca | $48K | $23.31/hr | 250 |
| Watertown-Fort Drum | $46K | $21.91/hr | 180 |
| Utica-Rome | $45K | $21.53/hr | 860 |
| Kingston | $44K | $21.21/hr | 300 |
| Syracuse | $43K | $20.89/hr | 1,790 |
| Albany-Schenectady-Troy | $43K | $20.69/hr | 2,270 |
| Rochester | $42K | $20.29/hr | 3,100 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City | $42K | $20.21/hr | 138,940 |
| Elmira | $41K | $19.49/hr | 90 |
| Glens Falls | $40K | $19/hr | 200 |
| Binghamton | $39K | $18.74/hr | 670 |
| Kiryas Joel-Poughkeepsie-Newburgh | $38K | $18.51/hr | 2,600 |
| Buffalo-Cheektowaga | $38K | $18.37/hr | 3,720 |
Security Guards salary range in New York
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in New York?▼
The median security guards salary in New York is $42,680 per year ($20.52/hr). This is 11% above the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $35,630 to $60,150.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in New York?▼
Security Guards positions in New York typically require High school diploma or equivalent. New York may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New York licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in New York?▼
At the median salary of $42,680, a security guards in New York would take home approximately $2,883/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 49% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in New York?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in New York are Ithaca ($48,480), Watertown-Fort Drum ($45,570), Utica-Rome ($44,790). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does New York have state income tax for security guards?▼
Yes, New York has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.1%. On a $42,680 salary, this means roughly $1,742/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.