Security Guards

Pay in California

Median: $44,335 a year, $21.32 an hour.

About 199,480 people work in this job in California.

Source: EDD LMID OEWS, 2026 1st quarter, California statewide (data.ca.gov resource modified 2026-10-01)

Outlook

Projected change from 2024 to 2034: +3.3%, with about 264,160 total openings expected.

Source: EDD LMID long-term projections 2024 to 2034, California

Typical credential

Typical education to start: High school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training: Short-term on-the-job training. Work experience: None.

Job details on O*NET

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Schools with a matching program

Programs are matched by title. Confirm with the school that a program leads to this job.

• Bakersfield College (Central Valley): Security Guard Card (Certificate of Completion)
• Long Beach City College (Los Angeles): Security Guard Training - Certificate of Completion
• Montebello Adult (Los Angeles): Guard Card
• Schurr Community Adult (Los Angeles): Guard Card
• Torrance Adult School - Hamilton Site (Los Angeles): Security Guard Courses