Security Guards Salary in West Virginia
Official Bureau of Labor Statistics Data - May 2024 - WV
Median Annual Salary in West Virginia
$28,019
$13.47 / hour
▼ 18.0% below national avg
National Median
$34,170
$16.43 / hour nationally
COL-Adjusted Purchasing Power
$31,624
Missouri equivalent (COL: 88.6)
Security Guards Salary in West Virginia
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (Entry Level) | $14,850 |
| 25th Percentile | $20,174 |
| 50th (Median) | $28,019 |
| 75th Percentile | $38,666 |
| 90th (Top Earners) | $48,193 |
| Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024 | |
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Cost of Living Adjusted Salary
The West Virginia median salary of $28,019 for Security Guards has the purchasing power of approximately $31,624 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).
West Virginia's lower cost of living (COL index: 88.6) 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 West Virginia?
Security Guards in West Virginia earn a median annual salary of $28,019 per year ($13.47/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is below the national median of $34,170.
Is West Virginia a good state for Security Guards?
West Virginia pays slightly below the national average for security guards. Cost of living in West Virginia is lower average (COL index: 88.6).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Security Guards in West Virginia?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 88.6 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $28,019 salary in West Virginia has the purchasing power of approximately $31,624 in Missouri. Lower living costs in West Virginia increase real purchasing power.
How does West Virginia 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 West Virginia
| # | Job Title | Median Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Anesthesiologists | $272,404 |
| 2 | Radiologists | $254,134 |
| 3 | Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric | $251,100 |
| 4 | Neurologists | $242,392 |
| 5 | Surgeons, All Other | $241,506 |
| 6 | Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric | $222,942 |
| 7 | Psychiatrists | $204,834 |
| 8 | Physicians, Pathologists | $200,014 |
| Source: BLS OEWS May 2024 | ||
About Security Guards in West Virginia
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