Average Security Guards Salary in Lake Charles, LA
Security Guards in Lake Charles, Louisiana, earn an average annual salary of $35,030. This figure is notably below the national average of $42,450, suggesting that local market dynamics and potentially a different economic landscape influence compensation in this sector. The specific economic conditions and demand within the Lake Charles area play a significant role in shaping these salary outcomes.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $35,030 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 24.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $49,340.
- Outlook: The job market for Security Guards in Lake Charles appears stable, with a local workforce of 910 individuals. The Location Quotient of 1.13 indicates a slightly higher concentration of these roles compared to the national average, suggesting a consistent, albeit not overwhelmingly high, demand for security personnel within the region.
Salary Overview
The average Security Guards in Lake Charles, LA earns-17.5%below the national average.
$16.8
$674
$2,919
Security Guards Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Security Guard salary trends in Lake Charles is not provided, it is generally assumed that, similar to national trends, compensation for this role has seen incremental growth over the past four years. This growth is typically driven by inflation, evolving security needs, and the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the field.
Security Guards Salary Distribution in Lake Charles, LA
Salary progression for Security Guards in Lake Charles typically correlates with experience and specialization. Entry-level positions may start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with advanced certifications or supervisory responsibilities can command significantly higher salaries. The percentile gaps in earnings reflect this career trajectory, rewarding dedication and expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $21,810 | $10.5 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $26,273 | $12.6 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $31,140 | $15 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $43,788 | $21.1 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $49,340 | $23.7 |
Detailed Security Guards Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$35,030
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$35,030
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $35,030 in Lake Charles aligns precisely with the national average Cost of Living Index of 100. This means that while the nominal salary is lower than the national average, the purchasing power of that salary locally is on par with the national standard, indicating a balanced economic environment for residents.
Job Market Context
910
Total Jobs
9.12
Per 1K Jobs
1.13
Location Quotient
With a location quotient of 1.13, Lake Charles, LA has a slightly higher-than-average concentration of Security Guards roles compared to the national norm.
With a Location Quotient of 1.13, Lake Charles shows a slightly higher concentration of Security Guard positions than the national average. This suggests that the job market is moderately competitive, with a demand that is a bit more pronounced than in other areas, offering a reasonable number of opportunities for qualified individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Security Guards
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX Security Guards Salary | $34,770↓ 1% | 56 mi |
| Lafayette, LA Security Guards Salary | $31,810↓ 9% | 70 mi |
| Alexandria, LA Security Guards Salary | $36,800↑ 5% | 87 mi |
Comparing salaries near Lake Charles, LA
Hiring Security Guardss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Security Guards make in Lake Charles, LA?
The median annual salary for a Security Guards in Lake Charles, LA is $35,030. This typically ranges from $21,810 for entry-level positions to $49,340 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Lake Charles, LA is 17.5% lower than the national median of $42,450.
Is Lake Charles, LA a lucrative place for Security Guards?
No, not particularly lucrative compared to the national average.While the cost of living is average, the average salary of $35,030 is significantly lower than the national average of $42,450, indicating less earning potential in this specific role.
Is Lake Charles, LA a good place to live for Security Guards?
The Cost of Living Index in Lake Charles, LA is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Lake Charles, LA?
Some top paying nearby cities include Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX ($34,770) and Lafayette, LA.
How does the number of Security Guards in Lake Charles compare to the national average?
Lake Charles has 9.12 Security Guards per 1,000 workers, which is slightly above the national average, indicating a moderate presence of this profession in the local workforce.
What is the total number of Security Guards employed in Lake Charles?
There are approximately 910 Security Guards employed within Lake Charles, contributing to the local economy and security infrastructure.
Does experience significantly impact a Security Guard's salary in Lake Charles?
Yes, experience is a key factor in salary determination. More experienced Security Guards with specialized skills or supervisory roles typically earn higher wages than entry-level personnel.
How does the cost of living in Lake Charles affect the Security Guard salary?
The cost of living in Lake Charles is at the national average (100). This means the $35,030 salary has purchasing power equivalent to the national average, making the lower nominal salary more manageable locally.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 910 employees in the Lake Charles, LA area with a job density of 9.12 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 Lake Charles, LA