Animal Control Workers vs. Security Guards: Who Earns More?
Animal Control Workers out-earn Security Guards by $8K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Animal Control Workers land at $45,660 and Security Guards at $38,020. The education gap is real: animal control worker programs typically require high school diploma or equivalent, while security guard programs require high school diploma or equivalent. Top-paying state for Animal Control Workers is Washington ($66,440); for Security Guards it's District of Columbia ($64,210).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Animal Control Workers median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Animal Control Workers or Security Guards?
Animal Control Workers earn more nationally. The median is $45,660 for Animal Control Workers versus $38,020 for Security Guards, a difference of $8K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Animal Control Workers or Security Guards?
Animal Control Workers has the better 10-year outlook at 3.9% projected growth, compared to 0.4% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Animal Control Workers or Security Guards?
Animal Control Workers typically requires high school diploma or equivalent. Security Guards requires high school diploma or equivalent. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Animal Control Workers get paid the most?
Washington is the top-paying state for Animal Control Workers at $66,440/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Animal Control Workers vs. Security Guards pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Washington, Animal Control Workers earn $66,440 vs. $47,100 for Security Guards. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.