Security Guards and Gambling Surveillance Officers earn $38,050 median salary – 2025 BLS data
The typical security guard or gambling surveillance officer earns $38,050 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That's a median – half earn more, half less. The average pay is slightly higher at $42,490, or about $18 an hour. The bottom 10% make $30,220, while the top 10% pull in $58,890.
How much Security Guards and Gambling Surveillance Officers earn
The national median salary for these 1.3 million workers is $38,050, with a mean wage of $42,490. Hourly, that works out to roughly $18.40. Pay varies widely by employer, location, and experience. The lowest-paid 10% earn $30,220 or less; the highest-paid 10% make $58,890 or more. Overtime and shift differentials can boost take-home pay significantly, especially in 24/7 operations like casinos or industrial sites.
Hazard pay and union contracts also affect compensation. Security guards at hospitals or government facilities often earn above the median, while those at retail or event venues may start near the bottom of the range. Gambling surveillance officers, who monitor casino floors via cameras, typically earn in the upper half of the scale due to the specialized skills required.
Pay by state
BLS data for the most recent year shows that the highest-paying state for security guards and gambling surveillance officers is the District of Columbia, with an annual mean wage of $58,650. The lowest-paying state is Mississippi, where the mean wage is $33,220. Alaska, Massachusetts, and New York also rank near the top, while southern states like Louisiana and Arkansas are at the bottom.
How to become Security Guards and Gambling Surveillance Officer
Most security guard jobs require a high school diploma or equivalent. Many states require a security guard license, which involves a background check and completion of a short training course – typically 8 to 16 hours. On-the-job training covers procedures, emergency response, and report writing. For gambling surveillance officer roles, employers often prefer some college coursework in criminal justice or computer science, plus experience in security or IT.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete any required state licensing or certification (background check and training).
- For surveillance positions, consider an associate's degree in criminal justice or a related field.
- Gain entry-level experience as a security guard, then apply for surveillance roles – casinos often promote from within.
Job outlook
The BLS does not project growth for this specific occupation between 2024 and 2034. However, demand for security services remains steady due to ongoing needs in retail, healthcare, and entertainment. Employment turnover is high, which creates regular openings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a security guard?
The bottom 10% of security guards earn $30,220 or less per year, according to BLS data. Many entry-level jobs pay around the federal minimum wage or slightly higher, but larger employers and unionized positions pay better.
How much do gambling surveillance officers make?
The BLS groups gambling surveillance officers with security guards, so the median of $38,050 applies. However, experienced surveillance officers at large casinos often earn above the median, closer to the top 10% figure of $58,890.
Do security guards get paid overtime?
Yes, many security jobs are hourly and eligible for overtime at 1.5 times the regular rate. This can significantly boost annual earnings, especially for positions that require 12-hour shifts or overnight work.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Security Guards and Gambling Surveillance Officers data.