Average Security Guards Salary in Decatur, AL
Security Guards in Decatur, AL, can expect an average annual salary of $44,360. This figure is notably higher than the national average of $42,450, suggesting that local economic factors and demand within Decatur contribute to a more favorable compensation landscape for these essential professionals.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $44,360 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 7.1% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $60,200.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 470 Security Guards and a Location Quotient of 0.99, Decatur presents a stable job market for this profession. While the concentration is nearly at the national average, the presence of nearly 8 Security Guards per 1,000 workers indicates consistent demand and employment opportunities within the area.
Salary Overview
The average Security Guards in Decatur, AL earns+4.5%above the national average.
$21.3
$853
$3,697
Security Guards Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Security Guards in Decatur, AL, have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. This anticipated upward trajectory is likely driven by increasing security needs and a dynamic local economy.
Security Guards Salary Distribution in Decatur, AL
Career progression for Security Guards in Decatur, AL, typically involves a salary increase with experience. Entry-level positions might start closer to the lower end of the pay scale, while senior guards with specialized skills or supervisory responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries, reflecting the percentile gaps in compensation.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $29,210 | $14 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $33,270 | $16 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $37,720 | $18.1 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $55,450 | $26.7 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $60,200 | $28.9 |
Detailed Security Guards Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$44,360
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$44,360
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $44,360 in Decatur, AL, aligns perfectly with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that the purchasing power of a Security Guard's salary in Decatur is equivalent to the national average, offering a balanced financial standing for residents.
Job Market Context
470
Total Jobs
7.957
Per 1K Jobs
0.99
Location Quotient
Decatur, AL has 0.99x the national average concentration of Security Guards jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
Decatur, AL, exhibits a Security Guard job market that is closely aligned with national employment patterns, as indicated by its Location Quotient of 0.99. This suggests a healthy and competitive market where the number of Security Guards is proportionate to the national average, ensuring a steady supply of talent for employers.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Security Guards
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Huntsville, AL Security Guards Salary | $39,600↓ 11% | 22 mi |
| Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL Security Guards Salary | $32,360↓ 27% | 42 mi |
| Gadsden, AL Security Guards Salary | $31,040↓ 30% | 68 mi |
| Birmingham, AL Security Guards Salary | $33,460↓ 25% | 73 mi |
| East Tennessee nonmetropolitan area Security Guards Salary | $39,020↓ 12% | 83 mi |
Comparing salaries near Decatur, AL
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guards make in Decatur, AL?
The median annual salary for a Security Guards in Decatur, AL is $44,360. This typically ranges from $29,210 for entry-level positions to $60,200 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Decatur, AL is 4.5% higher than the national median of $42,450.
Is Decatur, AL a lucrative place for Security Guards?
Yes, it offers slightly above-average compensation.Security Guards in Decatur, AL, earn an average of $44,360 annually, which is more than the national average. Coupled with a cost of living that matches the national average, this makes Decatur a financially sound location for this profession.
Is Decatur, AL a good place to live for Security Guards?
The Cost of Living Index in Decatur, AL is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Decatur, AL?
Some top paying nearby cities include Huntsville, AL ($39,600) and Florence-Muscle Shoals, AL.
How does the number of Security Guards in Decatur compare nationally?
Decatur has a total local workforce of 470 Security Guards, with 7.957 jobs per 1,000 workers, which is very close to the national average concentration.
What is the Cost of Living in Decatur, AL?
The Cost of Living Index in Decatur, AL, is 100, which is exactly the national average. This means everyday expenses are neither significantly higher nor lower than the typical US city.
Does experience impact Security Guard salaries in Decatur?
Yes, like most professions, experience plays a crucial role. Senior Security Guards with more years of service and potentially specialized skills will generally earn more than entry-level personnel.
Is the Security Guard job market in Decatur growing?
While specific growth rates aren't provided, the stable Location Quotient and consistent jobs per capita suggest a steady and reliable job market for Security Guards in Decatur.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 470 employees in the Decatur, AL area with a job density of 7.957 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 Decatur, AL