How to Become a Security Guards in Washington
Security Guards in Washington earn a median salary of $48,010/year, which is 25% above the national average. Washington has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a security guards takes home approximately $1,973/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a security guards can afford in Washington
Becoming a security guards in Washington
Meet education requirements
Security Guards positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Washington. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many security guards positions in Washington require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Washington licensure or certification
Washington may require specific licensing or professional certification for security guardss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Washington Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Washington
Washington employs 24,820 security guards. The highest concentrations are in Kennewick-Richland and Mount Vernon-Anacortes.
Security Guards salary by metro area in Washington
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kennewick-Richland | $88K | $42.2/hr | 650 |
| Mount Vernon-Anacortes | $49K | $23.69/hr | 220 |
| Walla Walla | $49K | $23.41/hr | 50 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $48K | $23.27/hr | 16,320 |
| Bremerton-Silverdale-Port Orchard | $47K | $22.73/hr | 520 |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $46K | $22.08/hr | 890 |
| Yakima | $44K | $21.31/hr | 460 |
| Bellingham | $44K | $21.03/hr | 390 |
| Longview-Kelso | $44K | $21.01/hr | 130 |
| Wenatchee-East Wenatchee | $44K | $20.93/hr | 220 |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $41K | $19.89/hr | 2,270 |
Security Guards salary range in Washington
Security Guards careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a security guards make in Washington?▼
The median security guards salary in Washington is $48,010 per year ($23.08/hr). This is 25% above the national median of $38,370. Salaries range from $38,030 to $73,480.
What are the requirements to become a security guards in Washington?▼
Security Guards positions in Washington typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Washington may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Washington licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a security guards afford to live in Washington?▼
At the median salary of $48,010, a security guards in Washington would take home approximately $3,385/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 41.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for security guards in Washington?▼
The highest paying metro areas for security guards in Washington are Kennewick-Richland ($87,770), Mount Vernon-Anacortes ($49,270), Walla Walla ($48,700). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Washington have state income tax for security guards?▼
No, Washington 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.