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Public Safety · Ohio

How to Become a Security Guards in Ohio

Security Guards in Ohio earn a median salary of $35,770/year, which is 6% below the national average. Ohio has a state income tax of ~0.8%. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,282/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$36K
Median salary in Ohio
-6%
vs. national average
0.8%
State income tax
34,450
Employed in Ohio

What a security guards can afford in Ohio

Gross annual salary$35,770
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 0.8% state tax)$2,542/mo
Median 2BR rent (Ohio)-$1,260/mo
Rent as % of take-home49.6% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$35,770/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,282/mo

Becoming a security guards in Ohio

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Ohio licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Ohio

Ohio employs 34,450 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Springfield and Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek.

Security Guards salary by metro area in Ohio

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Springfield$38K$18.05/hr160
Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek$37K$17.56/hr2,040
Cincinnati$36K$17.36/hr7,970
Cleveland$36K$17.25/hr7,630
Columbus$36K$17.21/hr9,300
Sandusky$36K$17.17/hr230
Akron$35K$16.99/hr1,940
Canton-Massillon$35K$16.89/hr750
Toledo$35K$16.8/hr1,680
Mansfield$34K$16.19/hr140
Youngstown-Warren$33K$15.87/hr1,490
Lima$30K$14.45/hr140

Security Guards salary range in Ohio

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$36K
75th percentile
$45K
90th percentile (senior)
$55K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a security guards make in Ohio?

The median security guards salary in Ohio is $35,770 per year ($17.2/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $38,020. Salaries range from $29,030 to $55,440.

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

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

Can a security guards afford to live in Ohio?

At the median salary of $35,770, a security guards in Ohio would take home approximately $2,542/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,260/month, that's 49.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for security guards in Ohio?

The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Ohio are Springfield ($37,540), Dayton-Kettering-Beavercreek ($36,510), Cincinnati ($36,110). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Ohio have state income tax for security guards?

Yes, Ohio has a state income tax rate of approximately 0.8%. On a $35,770 salary, this means roughly $272/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.