How to Become a Security Guards in Tennessee
Security Guards in Tennessee earn a median salary of $36,090/year, which is 6% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,174/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a security guards in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 28,260 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin and Clarksville.
Security Guards salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $38K | $18.14/hr | 10,790 |
| Clarksville | $36K | $17.35/hr | 330 |
| Knoxville | $36K | $17.29/hr | 2,940 |
| Kingsport-Bristol | $36K | $17.25/hr | 530 |
| Chattanooga | $36K | $17.09/hr | 1,870 |
| Jackson | $35K | $16.95/hr | 490 |
| Memphis | $35K | $16.95/hr | 8,410 |
| Morristown | $34K | $16.15/hr | 90 |
| Cleveland | $33K | $15.75/hr | 180 |
| Johnson City | $28K | $13.69/hr | 810 |
Security Guards salary range in Tennessee
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in Tennessee?▼
The median security guards salary in Tennessee is $36,090 per year ($17.35/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $28,690 to $60,200.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in Tennessee?▼
Security Guards positions in Tennessee typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $36,090, a security guards in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,586/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.6% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Tennessee are Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($37,730), Clarksville ($36,090), Knoxville ($35,960). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for security guards?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means security guards keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.