Security Guard in Augusta-Richmond County, GA

The Salary Picture: Where Augusta-Richmond County Stands

As a Security Guard in Augusta-Richmond County, Georgia, your earning potential is slightly above the national average, but the margin is thin. The median salary is $36,183/year, which breaks down to $17.4/hour. For context, the national average salary for Security Guards is $36,140/year, meaning Augusta is virtually identical to the U.S. typical wage, giving you a stable benchmark. The local job market is modest but steady, with an estimated 405 jobs in the metro area. However, the 10-year job growth is only 3%, which is slower than the national average for security roles, indicating a stable but not booming market. This isn't a place where you’ll see massive wage spikes or explosive demand, but it’s a reliable environment for consistent work.

To give you a clearer picture of how experience impacts your pay, here’s a breakdown of what you might expect at different career stages in the Augusta area. These are estimations based on regional data and industry trends, as specific local experience-level data can be sparse.

Experience Level	Estimated Annual Salary	Estimated Hourly Rate
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$28,000 - $32,000	$13.50 - $15.40
Mid-Level (3-5 years)	$34,000 - $38,000	$16.35 - $18.27
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$38,000 - $44,000	$18.27 - $21.15
Expert/Specialist (10+ years)	$44,000+	$21.15+

When you compare Augusta to other major Georgia cities, its salary is competitive. Atlanta’s cost of living and higher demand might push its median salary closer to $38,000 for similar roles, but the competition is fiercer. Savannah, with its tourism and port security needs, may offer slightly higher premiums for specialized roles, but the median is likely similar. Columbus and Macon are closer to Augusta in terms of market size and wage. For a security guard, Augusta offers a "Goldilocks" scenario—not the high pressure of Atlanta, but more opportunity than smaller, rural towns. Local insiders know that the Augusta mega-site, the Medical District, and major event venues like the Augusta National Golf Club (during tournament season) create unique, temporary spikes in demand that can boost your annual earnings if you’re positioned to catch them.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about your budget. Augusta-Richmond County has an average 1BR rent of $961/month and a Cost of Living Index of 100.4 (where the US average is 100). This means the area is just a hair above the national average for expenses, but your salary keeps pace. For a Security Guard earning the median salary of $36,183/year, here’s a practical monthly budget breakdown after taxes and basic living costs. (Note: This uses general tax estimates for Georgia; your actual take-home will vary.)

Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Gross Monthly Income	$3,015	($36,183 / 12 months)
Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA)	~$600	Georgia has a progressive tax; varies by filing status.
Estimated Net Monthly Income	~$2,415	Your "take-home" pay.
Rent (1BR Average)	$961	The largest fixed expense.
Utilities (Electric, Water, Internet)	$180	Augusta's summer heat can spike electric bills.
Groceries	$350	Moderate budget for a single person.
Car Payment/Insurance/Gas	$350	Crucial: Augusta is a car-dependent city.
Health Insurance (if not employer-provided)	$250	Varies widely; many guards get this via employer.
Miscellaneous (Phone, Personal, Savings)	$324	Includes a modest $100 savings contribution.
Total Expenses	~$2,415	Breaks even.
Remaining Buffer	$0

Can they afford to buy a home? With this budget, buying a home on a single security guard's median salary is extremely challenging without a partner or significant savings. The median home price in Augusta-Richmond County is around $215,000. A 20% down payment would be $43,000, and a monthly mortgage payment (including taxes and insurance) would likely exceed $1,400/month, which is over 58% of your net income—far above the recommended 30% threshold. While some might qualify for FHA loans with a lower down payment, the monthly payment would still be a severe strain. It’s more realistic to view homeownership as a long-term goal requiring dual incomes, significant overtime (often available in security), or career advancement to a higher-paying specialty.

The Local Breakdown: Major Employers and Hiring Trends

The security job market here is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, education, government, and event security. The "Augusta University Medical District" is a massive, contiguous complex that employs hundreds of security officers. Major employers include:

1. Augusta University Health (including Piedmont Augusta): As the state's only public academic medical center, security is 24/7. They handle everything from patient safety to asset protection. Hiring is consistent due to expansion projects and turnover. They often post jobs directly on their website.
2. Georgia Regents University (Augusta University): The main campus and satellite locations (like the Health Sciences campus) require campus security. These roles often come with benefits and a path to "Public Safety Officer" titles. Trends: Increasing focus on campus safety post-pandemic.
3. Savannah River Site (SRS) & Contractor Companies (like Centerra): This is the federal nuclear site nearby. It requires high-level, cleared security personnel. This is a premium market. Getting a DOE security clearance can lead to salaries $10,000+ above the median, but the background check is intensive. Contractors like Centerra and SDA are major hirers.
4. Augusta-Richmond County government: School system security (SCSD), courthouse security, and municipal building security. These are often unionized or have public employee benefits, which can be more stable. Hiring is periodic and posted on the county website.
5. Augusta National Golf Club (Patrons & Masters Week): This is a seasonal goldmine. The Masters Tournament in April requires hundreds of temporary security officers. Pay is often $18-$22/hour for the two-week period. Insiders know to apply in January/February through the event-specific security contractor (often a local or regional firm). It’s a great way to boost annual income.
6. Privately-Held Commercial & Industrial: Companies like Club Car, Olin, and various manufacturing plants in the industrial parks along Washington Road and Doug Barnard Parkway. Security here is often tied to loss prevention and access control. Hiring is steady but not explosive.

Getting Licensed in GA

Georgia has straightforward requirements for Security Guards, which you can get started on immediately. All information is governed by the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) Council.

• Requirement: You must complete an 8-hour initial training course from a POST-certified school. This covers criminal and civil law, use of force, and report writing. The course typically costs $100 - $150.
• Background Check: You must pass a criminal background check. No felony convictions. Certain misdemeanors may disqualify you.
• Application: You submit your training certificate and application to the Georgia POST Council. The application fee is $100 for a 5-year license.
• Timeline: The process is relatively quick. You can complete the 8-hour course in one day. The background check and application processing can take 2-4 weeks. You can job hunt while waiting for your license, but you cannot work as an armed guard or in a role requiring a license without it.
• Armed License: If you want to work armed, you must complete an additional 16-hour course (cost: ~$250-$350) and pass a separate qualification. This opens up higher-paying roles at SRS, banks, and executive protection, but it requires more training and liability.

Insider Tip: Many local security companies (like those staffing Augusta University or commercial sites) will often hire you as a "trainee" and pay for your initial training if you commit to a contract. It’s worth asking about during interviews.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Your neighborhood choice in Augusta will heavily depend on your job location and lifestyle. The city is spread out, and traffic can be congested during shifts changes on major arteries like Washington Road, Walton Way, and Bobby Jones Expressway.

1. North Augusta, SC (Just across the river): A popular choice for a reason. It’s safe, has good schools, and offers a quick commute to most Augusta employers. Rent is comparable to Augusta, around $950/month for a 1BR. Commute to the Medical District is 10-15 minutes. Ideal for those with families or who want a quieter residential feel.
2. Downtown Augusta & The Hill: The historic heart of the city. Closer to government jobs, the courthouse, and event venues. Rent can be higher for renovated lofts ($1,100-$1,250/month), but you might save on gas. The vibe is walkable and vibrant. Best for single professionals who work downtown or don’t mind a short commute.
3. Evans/Martinez (Columbia County): Suburban, family-oriented, and a major hub for commercial security jobs (shopping centers, private schools). Commute to the southside can be 20-30 minutes. Rent is similar to the county average ($950-$1,000/month). This is a top choice if you work in the commercial or retail security sector.
4. West Augusta (near the Mall & Medical District): This area is a practical compromise. It’s centrally located, with easy access to I-20 and Washington Road. You’ll find older, more affordable apartment options ($850-$950/month). It’s not the most glamorous area, but for a security guard on a budget, it’s a strategic location to minimize commute times to major employers.
5. South Augusta (near Fort Gordon): This area is seeing growth due to the Cyber Command expansion at Fort Gordon. It’s more affordable, with rents often $800-$900/month. Commute to downtown can be 25-35 minutes, but it’s ideal if you’re looking at security roles connected to military or government contractors. It’s also close to the Augusta Regional Airport.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 10-year outlook for security in Augusta is one of specialization and stability. The 3% job growth means you’re not competing in a hiring frenzy, so standing out is key.

• Specialty Premiums:
  • Clearance: A DOE clearance (for SRS) or a DoD Secret clearance (for Fort Gordon) can add $5,000-$15,000 to your annual salary immediately.
  • Certifications: The Certified Protection Professional (CPP) from ASIS is the gold standard and can lead to management roles, pushing salaries toward $60,000+.
  • Armed Guard: The armed certification is the most common pay bump, often adding $2-$4/hour.
• Advancement Paths: The typical path is from Guard → Shift Supervisor → Account Manager/Operations Manager. You can also move into hospital security (which can lead to roles in healthcare administration) or corporate security (for companies like Club Car or Olin). Another path is to become an instructor at a local POST school, leveraging your experience.
• 10-Year Outlook: The demand for security will remain constant in healthcare, education, and government. The major variable is the Fort Gordon Cyber Center expansion. If the government continues to invest, demand for cleared, high-tech security roles will grow significantly, potentially outpacing the overall 3% growth rate. For the average guard, the key to growth is obtaining a specialty (armed, clearance, or a professional certification like CPP) to move from the median salary into the $44,000+ bracket.

The Verdict: Is Augusta-Richmond County Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: Anchored by healthcare, government, and a major federal site.	Slow Growth: The 3% 10-year outlook means limited upward mobility without specialization.
Competitive Wages: Median salary of $36,183 is on par with the national average.	Car Dependency: You will need a reliable vehicle; public transit is limited.
Affordable Living: Rent ($961/month) is manageable on a security guard's salary, allowing for a decent lifestyle.	Summer Heat: August in Georgia is brutally hot and humid, which can make outdoor security shifts challenging.
Diverse Opportunities: From event security at the Masters to high-clearance work at SRS.	Limited Nightlife/Social Scene: Compared to Atlanta, the social options are smaller.
"Insider" Opportunities: Seasonal work at Augusta National and SRS can significantly boost income.	Competitive for Premium Roles: The best-paying jobs (SRS, AU Health) are competitive and may require prior experience or connections.

Final Recommendation: Augusta-Richmond County is an excellent choice for a Security Guard who values stability over high-risk, high-reward opportunities. It’s ideal if you are entry to mid-level, looking for a place where your salary covers your basic needs without constant financial stress. It’s also a strategic move for those willing to specialize—if you secure a clearance or an armed license, you can tap into the premium markets here. It is not the best choice if you are looking for rapid career advancement without additional training or if you want a bustling, walkable urban core. For the right person, Augusta offers a balanced, grounded career path.

FAQs

1. How do I find a job as a Security Guard in Augusta?
Start with local staffing agencies (like "Augusta Staffing" or "People Plus") that contract security services. Also, check the job boards for major employers directly: Augusta University Health, the Richmond County Sheriff's Office (for school security), and federal contractors like Centerra at SRS. For event security, network with local firms and apply early for the Masters.

2. Is the cost of living really that low?
Yes, for the Southeast. The Cost of Living Index of 100.4 is very close to the national average, but the median home price and rent are lower than in Atlanta or Charlotte. Your biggest expense will be your car, so factor in a reliable vehicle and insurance.

3. What's the weather like for outdoor security work?
Georgia summers are long and hot, from May to September, with highs regularly in the 90s and high humidity. Winters are mild but can be cold. Employers with outdoor posts should provide shaded areas and water, but it's a factor to consider if you have health concerns.

4. Can I make a living wage with the median salary?
Yes, but it requires careful budgeting. With the median salary of $36,183 and average rent of $961/month, you can live comfortably as a single person if you manage discretionary spending. You will not have much room for error or luxury, but it’s a sustainable wage for the area.

5. What's the best path to higher pay?
The most direct path is obtaining an armed guard license and applying to high-security posts (banks, SRS). The second path is gaining a security clearance through a federal contractor. The third, long-term path is earning a certification like the CPP to move into management. Seasonal work at the Masters is a great way to add $2,000-$3,000 to your annual income in a short period.