How to Become a Security Guards in Texas
Security Guards in Texas earn a median salary of $35,980/year, which is 5% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $649/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in Texas
Becoming a security guards in Texas
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state, contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 106,210 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Odessa and Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos.
Security Guards salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Odessa | $38K | $18.47/hr | 230 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $38K | $18.23/hr | 8,410 |
| Midland | $38K | $18.03/hr | 240 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $37K | $17.63/hr | 34,000 |
| Tyler | $36K | $17.39/hr | 530 |
| Abilene | $36K | $17.37/hr | 220 |
| Amarillo | $36K | $17.08/hr | 590 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $35K | $17.05/hr | 29,250 |
| Killeen-Temple | $35K | $17.01/hr | 730 |
| Waco | $35K | $16.96/hr | 650 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $35K | $16.96/hr | 11,420 |
| Lubbock | $35K | $16.93/hr | 850 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $35K | $16.83/hr | 1,100 |
| Wichita Falls | $35K | $16.79/hr | 220 |
| Texarkana | $34K | $16.37/hr | 150 |
Security Guards salary range in Texas
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in Texas?▼
The median security guards salary in Texas is $35,980 per year ($17.3/hr). This is 5% below the national median of $38,020. Salaries range from $26,950 to $50,740.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in Texas?▼
Security Guards positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $35,980, a security guards in Texas would take home approximately $2,579/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,930/month, that's 74.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Texas are Odessa ($38,420), Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos ($37,920), Midland ($37,500). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros, a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for security guards?▼
No, Texas 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.