Security Guards Salary in South Carolina
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - SC
Median Annual Salary in South Carolina
$30,753
$14.79 / hour
▼ 10.0% below national avg
National Median
$34,170
$16.43 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$32,646
Missouri equivalent (COL: 94.2)
Security Guards Salary in South Carolina
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $16,299 |
| 25th Percentile | $22,142 |
| 50th (Median) | $30,753 |
| 75th Percentile | $42,439 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $52,895 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The South Carolina median salary of $30,753 for Security Guards has the purchasing power of approximately $32,646 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
South Carolina's lower cost of living (COL index: 94.2) means your salary goes further than in higher-cost states.
COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do Security Guards make in South Carolina?
Security Guards in South Carolina earn a median annual salary of $30,753 per year ($14.79/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is below the national median of $34,170.
Is South Carolina a good state for Security Guards?
South Carolina pays slightly below the national average for security guards. Cost of living in South Carolina is lower average (COL index: 94.2).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Security Guards in South Carolina?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 94.2 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $30,753 salary in South Carolina has the purchasing power of approximately $32,646 in Missouri. Lower living costs in South Carolina increase real purchasing power.
How does South Carolina compare to neighboring states for Security Guards salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Security Guards salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.
Top Paying Jobs in South Carolina
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologists | $298,980 |
| 2 | Radiologists | $278,928 |
| 3 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $275,598 |
| 4 | Neurologists | $266,040 |
| 5 | Surgeons, All Other | $265,068 |
| 6 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $244,692 |
| 7 | Psychiatrists | $224,818 |
| 8 | Physicians, Pathologists | $219,528 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Security Guards in South Carolina
Security Guards work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the protective service sector of the U.S. economy.
Education Required: High school diploma