Average Security Guards Salary in Auburn-Opelika, AL
Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL earn an average annual salary of $32,190. This figure is notably below the national average of $42,450, suggesting that local economic factors and demand dynamics play a significant role in compensation within this region. The specific pay rates for security roles are often influenced by the prevailing wage scales and the overall economic health of the metropolitan area.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $32,190 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 40.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $41,310.
- Outlook: With a total local workforce of 270 and a Location Quotient of 0.46, the job market for Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL, indicates a lower concentration compared to the national average. This suggests that while there is a presence of security guard roles, the demand may not be as robust as in more densely populated or industrially diverse areas, potentially impacting hiring opportunities and salary growth.
Salary Overview
The average Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL earns-24.2%below the national average.
$15.5
$619
$2,683
Security Guards Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Security Guard salary growth in Auburn-Opelika, AL is not provided, it is generally assumed that compensation for such roles has seen modest increases over the past four years, mirroring broader economic trends and inflation adjustments. These incremental raises are typical across many service-oriented professions as employers adapt to changing labor market conditions and cost of living.
Security Guards Salary Distribution in Auburn-Opelika, AL
Experience significantly influences a Security Guard's earning potential in Auburn-Opelika, AL. Entry-level positions typically command the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities can expect to earn considerably more. The salary gap between junior and senior roles reflects the value placed on accumulated knowledge, proven reliability, and leadership capabilities within the security industry.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $23,190 | $11.1 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $24,143 | $11.6 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $30,260 | $14.5 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $40,238 | $19.3 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $41,310 | $19.9 |
Detailed Security Guards Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$32,190
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$32,190
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $32,190 for Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL, aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the nominal income earned by a security guard in this area has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, offering a balanced lifestyle without the premium often associated with higher cost-of-living regions.
Job Market Context
270
Total Jobs
3.733
Per 1K Jobs
0.46
Location Quotient
At 0.46x, Auburn-Opelika, AL has a notably lower concentration of Security Guards jobs than the national average. Opportunities in this area are relatively scarce for this profession.
The Location Quotient of 0.46 for Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL, signifies that this profession is less concentrated locally than the national average. This suggests that the job market for security guards may be less competitive, with fewer professionals vying for available positions compared to other areas. While this could imply more opportunities for qualified individuals, it also points to a potentially smaller overall demand for these services within the region.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Security Guards
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Columbus, GA-AL Security Guards Salary | $39,820↑ 24% | 36 mi |
| Montgomery, AL Security Guards Salary | $32,520↑ 1% | 49 mi |
| Anniston-Oxford, AL Security Guards Salary | $36,370↑ 13% | 76 mi |
| Northeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $32,090↓ 0% | 77 mi |
| Southeast Alabama nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $35,270↑ 10% | 77 mi |
Comparing salaries near Auburn-Opelika, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guards make in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
The median annual salary for a Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL is $32,190. This typically ranges from $23,190 for entry-level positions to $41,310 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 24.2% lower than the national median of $42,450.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a lucrative place for Security Guards?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to national standards.The average salary of $32,190 is significantly lower than the national average of $42,450. While the cost of living is average, the lower salary indicates less financial advantage for security guards in this area.
Is Auburn-Opelika, AL a good place to live for Security Guards?
The Cost of Living Index in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Auburn-Opelika, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Columbus, GA-AL ($39,820) and Montgomery, AL.
How does the number of Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika compare nationally?
With 3.733 jobs per 1,000 workers, the density of Security Guard positions in Auburn-Opelika, AL is lower than the national average, reflecting a less concentrated job market for this profession.
What is the total number of Security Guards employed in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
There are approximately 270 Security Guards employed within the Auburn-Opelika, AL metropolitan area, forming the local workforce for this occupation.
Does the Cost of Living in Auburn-Opelika, AL affect Security Guard salaries?
The Cost of Living Index in Auburn-Opelika, AL is 100, which is the national average. This means the $32,190 salary has average purchasing power, neither significantly boosted nor diminished by local living expenses.
How does the Location Quotient impact job prospects for Security Guards in Auburn-Opelika, AL?
A Location Quotient of 0.46 suggests that Security Guards are less prevalent in Auburn-Opelika, AL than the national average, which could mean fewer specialized roles but potentially less competition for general security positions.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 270 employees in the Auburn-Opelika, AL area with a job density of 3.733 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 Auburn-Opelika, AL