2024 Data

Security Guard Salary in Minneapolis, MN: $37,954 (2024)

Official 2024 BLS Data | $18.25/hour | $23,769 - $52,932 range

Median Annual Salary

$37,954

2.3% vs national

Hourly Rate

$18.25

/hour

Jobs in Area

1,236

employed

Salary Range$23,769 - $52,932
10th %Median90th %
Data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) | Editorial guidelines

Compare to Other Cities

See All →

Minneapolis, MN

$37,954

San Jose, CA

$52,005

$14,051 more (+37.0%)

in San Jose, CA

Security Guard Salary Range in Minneapolis, MN

Annual Salary Range

$38k

$24k

10th percentile

$31k

25th

$46k

75th

$53k

90th percentile

Salary Breakdown by Percentile

PercentileAnnual SalaryHourly Rate
10th Percentile (Entry Level)$23,769$11.43
25th Percentile$30,640$14.73
Median (50th Percentile)$37,954$18.25
75th Percentile$45,746$21.99
90th Percentile (Top Earners)$52,932$25.45
Average (Mean)$41,228$19.82

Security Guard Market Insights for Minneapolis, MN

Compensation Overview

Security Guard compensation in Minneapolis, MN aligns with regional expectations. The salary range from $23,769 to $52,932 provides a clear picture of earning potential at different career stages.

Local Market Context

Minneapolis, MN offers competitive compensation that aligns closely with national benchmarks. The Minnesota economy supports a diverse range of industries, providing stable employment opportunities across multiple sectors.

Career Outlook

The Security Guard profession offers diverse career opportunities across industries. Professional development and continuous learning are key factors in advancing within this field. With a 123% salary range from entry-level to top earners, there is substantial room for financial growth as you advance in your career.

Tips for Increasing Your Salary

  • Develop specialized expertise to command higher compensation—top earners make 39% more than median salaries
  • Build a professional network through industry associations and local business groups
  • Pursue relevant certifications or advanced education to demonstrate expertise

+2%

vs National Avg

+2%

vs State Avg

123%

Salary Range

1,236

Jobs in Area

Career Path & Salary Progression

Typical Security Guard salary growth in Minneapolis, MN based on experience level.

🎓

Entry Level

0-2 years

10th percentile

$23,769

/year

📈

Early Career

2-5 years

25th percentile

$30,640

/year

💼

Mid Career

5-10 years

50th percentile

$37,954

/year

🎯

Senior

10-15 years

75th percentile

$45,746

/year

Expert

15+ years

90th percentile

$52,932

/year

Next Career Steps

Common career progressions from Security Guard:

Note: Career progression and salary growth vary based on company size, industry, skills, and performance. These estimates use percentile data from the BLS as a general guide for typical career paths.

Security Guard Job Market in Minneapolis, MN

Where Security Guards Work

Security Guards work across multiple industries including corporations, government agencies, healthcare organizations, and consulting firms. Each sector offers different compensation structures and career trajectories.

Local Employment Landscape

The Minneapolis, MN area maintains a healthy employment base for this occupation, with opportunities distributed across multiple employers. This provides job stability and career mobility without the intense competition found in major metros.

Types of Employers Hiring

Large Corporations

Typically offer comprehensive benefits, structured advancement, and competitive base salaries with bonus potential

Small to Medium Businesses

May provide more responsibility earlier in your career, flexible work arrangements, and equity opportunities

Government Agencies

Known for job security, excellent benefits packages, pension plans, and work-life balance

Professional Services Firms

Provide client exposure, rapid skill development, and often above-market compensation for top performers

Skills That Increase Earning Potential

Advanced certifications in your specialtyLeadership and team managementData analysis and reportingCommunication and presentation skillsIndustry-specific software proficiency

Job Search Strategy for Minneapolis, MN

  • Research major employers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington area and follow them on LinkedIn for job alerts
  • Join local professional associations for networking and job leads specific to Minnesota
  • Tailor your salary expectations based on the Minneapolis, MN market rate of $37,954
  • Consider roles at varying experience levels—entry positions start at $23,769 in this market

Security Guard Career Overview in Minneapolis, MN

Local Employment
1,236
positions
Median Salary
$37,954
per year
vs National
+2%
difference
COL Index
103.2
100 = average

The job market for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN is moderate, with approximately 1,236 professionals employed across the metropolitan area. This represents a growing presence of Security Guard positions, reflecting the region's economic base and employer diversity in Minneapolis, MN. Compensation aligns closely with national benchmarks, indicating a balanced supply-demand dynamic in this market.

Minneapolis, MN's diverse economy supports protective services roles across multiple sectors including healthcare, education, government, technology, manufacturing, and professional services. Major employers in Minnesota range from large corporations and hospital systems to mid-size regional firms and growing startups. This employer diversity provides career stability and mobility, as professionals can advance their careers without necessarily relocating. The mix of public and private sector opportunities also creates varied compensation structures, with some employers offering lower base salaries but stronger benefits and job security.

The growth outlook for Security Guard positions in Minneapolis, MN is projected to remain stable with opportunities tied to local economic growth and industry trends. With 1,236 current positions and a median salary of $37,954, the market provides a solid foundation for career development. Professionals who invest in continuing education and stay current with industry developments position themselves for both job security and upward salary mobility. The combination of Minneapolis, MN's economic trajectory and broader industry trends suggests that qualified Security Guards will continue to find opportunities in this market over the coming years.

Minneapolis, MN offers a balanced proposition for Security Guards. The cost of living index of 103.2 sits near the national average, meaning the median salary of $37,954 translates to real purchasing power that closely matches the nominal figure. This makes salary comparisons with other similarly-priced metros straightforward. Security Guards evaluating Minneapolis, MN against peer cities should focus on factors beyond raw salary numbers, including career growth opportunities, industry specialization, commute quality, and lifestyle fit.

The Protective Services field in Minneapolis, MN benefits from the region's broader economic ecosystem. Local industry associations, professional networking groups, and continuing education opportunities through area universities and community colleges help Security Guards stay connected and advance their careers. Minnesota's business incentive programs and workforce development initiatives also play a role in attracting employers and creating positions. For Security Guards early in their career, Minneapolis, MN offers the chance to build a professional network in a market where individual contributions are often more visible than in the largest metros, potentially accelerating career progression.

Security Guard Compensation Deep Dive in Minneapolis, MN

Entry LevelMedianTop Earners
$23,769$37,954$52,932

The salary range for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN spans from $23,769 at the entry level (10th percentile) to $52,932 for top earners (90th percentile), a spread of $29,163. This 123% differential reflects the significant impact that experience, specialization, credentials, and employer type have on compensation in this field. The median salary of $37,954 sits at the midpoint of the market, representing what a Security Guard with moderate experience and standard qualifications can expect. The 25th percentile ($30,640) typically corresponds to early-career professionals with 1-3 years of experience, while the 75th percentile ($45,746) reflects seasoned professionals with specialized skills or management responsibilities.

Base salary tells only part of the compensation story for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN. Total compensation packages commonly include health insurance (valued at $6,000-$15,000 annually for employer contributions), retirement plan matching (typically 3-6% of salary, worth $1,518 per year at the median), paid time off (averaging 15-20 days), and in some cases performance bonuses, stock options, or professional development allowances. When evaluating job offers, Security Guards should request a total compensation breakdown. A position paying $30,640 with strong benefits may deliver more value than one paying $37,954 with minimal perks.

Cost of living directly impacts how far a Security Guard's salary goes in Minneapolis, MN. With a local cost-of-living index of 103.2 (where 100 equals the national average), the median salary of $37,954 provides purchasing power equivalent to approximately $36,777 in an average-cost U.S. city. This balanced cost environment means the salary figure closely reflects actual purchasing power, simplifying financial planning and comparisons with other mid-range markets.

Negotiating Security Guard compensation in Minneapolis, MN requires market awareness. The gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles ($30,640 to $45,746) represents the most common negotiation range. Candidates with in-demand certifications, niche expertise, or competing offers have the strongest leverage. In this market, salaries track national norms, and well-prepared candidates can typically move offers 5-10% above the initial number. Asking for a salary review after 6-12 months, signing bonuses, or additional PTO are effective alternatives when base salary flexibility is limited. On an hourly basis, Security Guards in this market earn between $11 and $25 per hour, with the median at $18.

Security Guard Career Path & Growth in Minneapolis, MN

Entry
$23,769
Early Career
$30,640
Mid Career
$37,954
Experienced
$45,746
Senior
$52,932

The career trajectory for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN shows significant earning potential over time. Entry-level professionals start around $23,769, while top earners reach $52,932, representing a 2.2x increase from start to peak. This progression typically unfolds over 10-20 years and is driven by accumulating expertise, taking on leadership responsibilities, developing specializations, and building a professional reputation. In Minneapolis, MN's protective services market, professionals who demonstrate consistent performance improvements and take on increasingly complex projects advance most quickly. Mid-career transitions into management, consulting, or entrepreneurship can also accelerate earnings beyond the standard progression curve.

Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN who are exploring career pivots or complementary roles should consider positions such as related professionals in the same field, supervisory roles, and cross-functional positions. These adjacent occupations often share transferable skills and can offer different compensation structures, work environments, or growth trajectories. In Minneapolis, MN's job market, professionals who develop cross-functional capabilities spanning multiple related roles tend to be more resilient to market shifts and better positioned for leadership opportunities. Lateral moves can also provide valuable perspective that strengthens a professional's long-term career trajectory.

The skills most in demand for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN include industry-specific technical competencies, communication and collaboration skills, analytical thinking, and adaptability to new tools and processes. Employers in Minneapolis, MN value professionals who combine deep subject-matter expertise with the ability to work effectively across teams and adapt to evolving industry requirements. Pursuing relevant professional certifications can provide a measurable salary boost of 5-15% and signal commitment to the field. Continuous learning through industry conferences, online courses, and professional associations helps Security Guards stay competitive in Minneapolis, MN's evolving job market.

More Questions About Security Guard Salaries in Minneapolis, MN

What is the starting salary for a Security Guard in Minneapolis, MN?

Entry-level Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN (10th percentile) earn approximately $23,769 per year, or about $1,981 per month. The 25th percentile, representing early-career professionals with some experience, earns $30,640. These figures reflect base salary only; new hires may also receive benefits worth an additional 20-30% of base pay. Building specialized skills and pursuing relevant certifications are the fastest paths to moving beyond entry-level compensation.

How much do experienced Security Guards make in Minneapolis, MN?

Experienced Security Guards at the 75th percentile earn $45,746 annually in Minneapolis, MN, while top earners at the 90th percentile make $52,932. The jump from median ($37,954) to 75th percentile represents a 21% increase, typically achieved through 5-10 years of experience, management responsibilities, or specialized expertise. Senior professionals who combine technical depth with leadership skills are best positioned for top-tier compensation.

Is Minneapolis, MN a good city for Security Guards?

Minneapolis, MN offers competitive compensation that closely tracks national averages. With 1,236 Security Guard positions in the metro area, there are solid opportunities across several major employers. Quality of life, industry presence, and long-term career trajectory should all factor into your evaluation alongside salary data.

How does Security Guard pay in Minneapolis, MN compare to the national average?

The median Security Guard salary in Minneapolis, MN is $37,954, which is 2% higher than the national median of $37,110. After adjusting for cost of living, the effective purchasing power is $36,777, which provides a more accurate comparison. Within Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN ranks at a competitive level for this occupation.

What benefits do Security Guards typically receive in Minneapolis, MN?

Beyond base salary, Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN typically receive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement contributions (401k matching of 3-6%), paid time off (15-25 days annually), and sometimes performance bonuses or profit sharing. The total value of benefits often adds 25-35% on top of base salary, meaning a Security Guard earning the median of $37,954 may receive total compensation of $49,340 or more. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development budgets, flexible work arrangements, and wellness programs.

What skills are most in demand for Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN?

Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN who command the highest salaries typically combine core technical competencies with strong communication skills, analytical thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. Employers in this market particularly value professionals who can demonstrate measurable impact, whether through revenue generation, cost savings, process improvements, or team leadership. Certifications relevant to the Protective Services field can increase earning potential by 5-15%. Staying current with industry trends and emerging technologies is essential for career advancement and salary growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

The median security guard salary in Minneapolis, MN is $37,954 per year ($18.25/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $23,769 for entry-level positions to $52,932 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level security guards in Minneapolis, MN typically start at around $23,769 per year ($11.43/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $37,954 within 3-5 years.

Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN earn a median hourly wage of $18.25 per hour. Hourly rates range from $11.43/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $25.45/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $23,769 and $52,932.

The median security guard salary of $37,954 in Minneapolis, MN is above the national median of $37,110 (2.3% higher). This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of security guards in the area earn more and half earn less.

Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN earn above the national average. The local median salary of $37,954 is 2.3% higher than the national median of $37,110. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $36,777.

The top 10% of security guards in Minneapolis, MN earn $52,932 or more per year ($25.45/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $45,746, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost security guard salary in Minneapolis, MN include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $37,954, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($45,746) or higher. Years of relevant experience

Minneapolis, MN has a moderate job market for security guards, with approximately 1,236 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $37,954 is above the national average. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your security guard salary to these Minneapolis, MN benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $23,769, 25th percentile: $30,640, 50th percentile (median): $37,954, 75th percentile: $45,746, 90th percentile (top earners): $52,932. If you earn more than $37,954, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $37,954 median base salary, security guards in Minneapolis, MN typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced security guards with 5-10 years in Minneapolis, MN typically earn $45,746 (75th percentile) to $52,932 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $52,932. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $37,954.

Security Guards in Minneapolis, MN can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($23,769) to median ($37,954) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($52,932) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $29,163 over a career.

Data Source & Methodology

Official government statistics you can trust

Primary Source

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) Program

Visit Official BLS Website

Data Year

2024

2 Years Old

Geographic Area

Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington

Metropolitan Statistical Area

Occupation Code

33-9032

SOC Classification

Sample Size

1,236

Employees Surveyed

How This Data Is Collected

The OEWS program produces employment and wage estimates annually for over 800 occupations across all metropolitan and nonmetropolitan areas. Approximately 1.1 million establishments are surveyed over a three-year period, representing the most comprehensive wage data available for the U.S. labor market.

Note: Percentile wages represent actual reported wages and may differ from individual compensation packages that include benefits, bonuses, and equity.

Last updated: January 23, 2026

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Security Guard in Minneapolis, MN

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Median: $37,954/yr

How Minneapolis, MN Compares

vs National Average

$37,110

+2.3%

vs Minnesota Average

$37,148

+2.2%

Cost-of-Living Adjusted

$36,777

-3.1%

Cost of living in Minneapolis, MN is 3.2% above the national average.

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