Average Security Guards Salary in Ames, IA
The average salary for a Security Guards in Ames, IA is $39,220. This compensation is in line with national standards, reflecting a balanced and stable local job market.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $39,220 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 9.3% ↘ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $45,530.
- Outlook: The current demand for Security Guardss is stable, with a local workforce of approximately 170 professionals. This role remains a specialized component of the broader Ames, IA economy.
Salary Overview
The average Security Guards in Ames, IA earns-7.6%below the national average.
$18.9
$754
$3,268
Security Guards Salary Trends (2020-2024)
Over the past 2 years, Security Guards salaries in Ames, IA have seen a slight adjustment of -9.3%. This positive trajectory often correlates with increased demand and a favorable future outlook for the profession.
Security Guards Salary Distribution in Ames, IA
The earning potential for Security Guardss in Ames, IA varies significantly by experience level. The salary gap is relatively narrow, suggesting consistent and predictable earnings from entry-level to senior positions. Entry-level roles (10th percentile) typically start around $30,700, while highly experienced professionals can command wages upwards of $45,530.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $30,700 | $14.8 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $29,415 | $14.1 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $37,510 | $18 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $49,025 | $23.6 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $45,530 | $21.9 |
Detailed Security Guards Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$39,220
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$39,220
Adjusted for COL (100)
In Ames, IA, the Cost of Living Index is 100. This increases your effective purchasing power from $39,220 to $39,220.
Job Market Context
170
Total Jobs
2.937
Per 1K Jobs
0.36
Location Quotient
At 0.36x, Ames, IA has a notably lower concentration of Security Guards jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
170 people work as Security Guards in Ames, IA.
Moderate density — roughly 2.937 out of every 1,000 local jobs are in this profession.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Security Guards
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $39,260↑ 0% | 21 mi |
| Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $40,170↑ 2% | 21 mi |
| Northeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $37,060↓ 6% | 21 mi |
| Southwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $39,230↑ 0% | 21 mi |
| Des Moines-West Des Moines, IA Security Guards Salary | $41,260↑ 5% | 31 mi |
Comparing salaries near Ames, IA
Hiring Security Guardss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guards make in Ames, IA?
The median annual salary for a Security Guards in Ames, IA is $39,220. This typically ranges from $30,700 for entry-level positions to $45,530 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Ames, IA is 7.6% lower than the national median of $42,450.
Is Ames, IA a good place for Security Guardss?
It depends on your priorities. While the average Security Guards salary in Ames, IA is $39,220 (below the national average), the area may offer a lower cost of living or other lifestyle benefits typical of Ames, IA. See distinct detailed breakdown below.
Is Ames, IA a good place to live for Security Guards?
The Cost of Living Index in Ames, IA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Ames, IA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Southeast Iowa nonmetropolitan area ($39,260) and Northwest Iowa nonmetropolitan area.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 170 employees in the Ames, IA area with a job density of 2.937 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Security Guards • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Ames, IA