Security Guard in Lynn, MA

The Salary Picture: Where Lynn Stands

As a local who’s watched the job market here for years, I can tell you straight up: Security Guard pay in Lynn isn’t going to make you rich, but it’s a stable, steady trade if you know the landscape. The city’s cost of living is high, and rents have climbed sharply, so every dollar counts.

First, let’s look at the hard numbers. The median salary for a Security Guard in Lynn is $37,397/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.98/hour. This sits just above the national average of $36,140/year, a testament to the higher cost of living in Massachusetts. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are approximately 202 jobs for Security Guards in the broader Lynn metro area, with a projected 10-year job growth of 3%. That 3% growth is modest—it’s not an exploding field, but it’s not shrinking either. It means steady demand, especially for guards who are reliable and licensed.

To understand where you might fit in, here’s a breakdown by experience level. These are typical ranges based on local job postings and industry chatter:

Experience Level	Typical Yearly Salary	Typical Hourly Rate	Key Local Employers at This Level
Entry-Level (0-2 years)	$33,000 - $37,000	$15.85 - $17.80	Hospital security, retail malls, basic contract firms
Mid-Level (2-5 years)	$38,000 - $44,000	$18.25 - $21.15	Corporate campuses, university security, transport
Senior-Level (5-10 years)	$45,000 - $52,000	$21.60 - $25.00	Supervisory roles, specialized sites (tech, finance)
Expert/Specialist (10+ years)	$53,000+	$25.50+	Lead trainer, security manager, federal contracts

Insider Tip: The jump from Entry to Mid-Level is often the toughest. It’s not just about tenure; it’s about getting the right specialty license (like armed guard) or landing a job with a better employer. In Lynn, the higher-end pay is almost always tied to working for a major institution, not a small, local contractor.

How does Lynn stack up against other Massachusetts cities? It’s not Boston, but it’s not Springfield either. Boston’s median is closer to $42,000, but the cost of living there is brutally high. Worcester offers a similar median salary ($36,800) with a slightly lower cost of living, while Springfield’s median drops to around $34,500. For a Security Guard, Lynn occupies a middle ground: pay is competitive for the region, but you’re within a short commute of Boston’s higher-paying jobs, should you choose to make that drive.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get real about the numbers. Earning $37,397/year translates to a monthly gross income of about $3,116. After state and federal taxes, you’re looking at a net take-home of approximately $2,450 - $2,550/month. This is a critical figure because it’s what you have to work with for all your expenses.

The biggest bite in Lynn is housing. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $2,064/month. Using a conservative estimate of take-home pay at $2,500/month, that leaves you with just $436/month for everything else: utilities, groceries, a car, insurance, and savings. It’s tight, but manageable if you budget aggressively and avoid unnecessary debt.

Here’s a sample monthly budget breakdown for a single Security Guard earning the median salary:

Category	Estimated Cost	Notes & Local Insights
Rent (1BR Apartment)	$2,064	This is the city average. A roommate can cut this to ~$1,100.
Utilities (Elec/Gas/Internet)	$180	Older Lynn apartments can have drafty windows; winter heating bills are real.
Groceries & Household	$300	Shop at Market Basket in Lynn or Chelsea; avoid downtown Boston prices.
Car (Payment, Gas, Insurance)	$350	A used, reliable car is essential. Public transit (MBTA) is limited in Lynn.
Phone / Misc.	$100	Basic plan.
Total Expenses	$2,994
Remaining Buffer	~$456	This is for savings, emergencies, and discretionary spending.

Can you afford to buy a home? On a $37,397 salary, it’s a significant challenge. With a 20% down payment, you’d need to save for many years. However, Lynn’s median home price is around $450,000. A more realistic path might be to partner with a spouse or partner’s income, or to consider a condo/townhouse in the $300,000 range in neighborhoods like West Lynn or near Highland Park. It’s not impossible, but it requires long-term planning and potentially moving to a higher-income specialty (see “The Long Game” section).

Where the Jobs Are: Lynn's Major Employers

The Lynn job market for Security Guards is anchored by a few key sectors: healthcare, education, and manufacturing/logistics. You’re not going to find a ton of corporate headquarters here, but the institutions that are here are always hiring.

1. Lynn General Hospital (Part of North Shore Medical Center): A major employer. They need guards for 24/7 coverage, patient safety, and asset protection. Jobs here often come with better benefits than contract work. Hiring is steady, but you’ll need to pass a strong background check.
2. North Shore Community College (Lynn Campus): College security is a different pace—more community relations, less confrontation. They hire for both day and evening shifts to cover campus events and facilities.
3. General Electric (GE) Aviation (Lynn Plant): While not as massive as it once was, the GE plant requires security for its critical infrastructure. These are often well-paying, unionized positions with excellent benefits, but they’re highly competitive and may require prior industrial security experience.
4. Boston Regional Medical Center (in nearby Stoneham): Many Lynn residents commute here. It’s a large hospital system with a constant need for security personnel, offering a path to a higher salary than most Lynn-based jobs.
5. Contract Security Firms (Securitas, G4S, local outfits): These companies service multiple Lynn locations—shopping plazas, office buildings, and residential complexes. It’s the easiest entry point, but pay is at the lower end of the scale. Insider Tip: Ask about “standby” pay and overtime opportunities when interviewing with contractors.
6. MBTA (Lynn Station & Facilities): The transportation hub at Lynn Station requires security. Jobs here are public-facing and can be hectic, especially during rush hour. Pay is middle-of-the-road, but benefits are state-level.
7. Walmart Supercenter / Target (Lynn): Retail loss prevention (asset protection) is a specific Security Guard role. It’s less about standing post and more about investigations and customer service. Pay is typically at the entry-to-mid level.

Getting Licensed in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has strict requirements, but the process is straightforward if you follow the steps. You’ll apply through the state’s Department of Public Safety (DPS) Licensing Section.

Step 1: The Unarmed Guard License

• Requirement: You must be at least 18, a US citizen or authorized to work, and have no disqualifying criminal history.
• Training: Complete a 4-hour pre-assignment course from a DPS-certified school. In Lynn, you can take this at schools in nearby Chelsea or Revere; there’s no dedicated school in Lynn proper.
• Cost: The course costs $50-$100. The state license application fee is $75. Total startup cost: roughly $125-$175.
• Timeline: You can schedule the course and submit your application quickly. Once submitted, processing takes about 4-6 weeks. You can’t work as a guard until you have the license in hand.

Step 2: The Armed Guard License (If Desired)

• This is a major step up in pay and responsibility. You need an Unarmed license first.
• Training: An additional 40-hour course (in-class and range time) at a certified school.
• Cost: The course typically costs $400-$600. An additional $100 state fee applies.
• Timeline: This adds another 2-3 months to your timeline. The armed license is a career accelerator in Lynn, especially for hospital or corporate campus roles.

Insider Tip: Keep your license active! Renewals are every 2 years and require 8 hours of continuing education. Many employers will pay for this, but you must stay on top of the deadlines.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Where you live in Lynn impacts your commute, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s a local’s guide to neighborhoods, from most to least recommended for a Security Guard on a median salary.

1. West Lynn: This is the most affordable and practical choice. Neighborhoods like Highland Park and East Lynn have a mix of older triple-deckers and smaller apartment buildings. You can find 1BR apartments for $1,600 - $1,900/month. It’s a quick drive to Lynn General Hospital or the GE plant. The commute is minimal, saving you gas and time. It’s a working-class area with a strong community feel.
2. Central/City Center: Close to Lynn Station and the downtown core. Rents are higher ($1,900 - $2,200/month), but if you work at the MBTA, hospital, or a downtown office, your commute is walkable or a short bus ride. This is convenient but can be noisy and less residential.
3. Lynnfield (Bordering Lynn): Technically a separate town, but it’s right next door. The rent is significantly higher ($2,200+), and it’s more suburban. A good option if you have a partner with a higher income or are looking for a quieter lifestyle. Commute to Lynn jobs is easy via Route 1 or 128.
4. East Lynn (near the beach): The area near Lynn Beach and the Nahant border is scenic but has higher rents ($2,000 - $2,400+). It’s a longer drive to the major employers, and parking can be a hassle. Not the most cost-effective choice on a $37,397 salary unless you’re willing to have a roommate.
5. Avoid: The area immediately surrounding the Lynn Commons can be challenging for parking and has higher traffic. While not unsafe, the constant activity isn’t ideal for someone who spends their days in a security role. Stick to the residential side streets in West Lynn or Central for a better balance.

The Long Game: Career Growth

The 3% job growth means you can’t expect the market to explode. Your advancement depends on specialization and networking. Here’s how to increase your earnings beyond the median.

• Armed Guard Premium: This is the single biggest pay bump. An armed guard in Lynn can earn $45,000 - $55,000+, especially at hospitals or financial institutions. The investment in training ($600+) pays for itself within a year.
• Specialty Certifications: Get certified in CPR/AED, first aid, and de-escalation. These are often required for hospital and corporate roles. Some employers, like Lynn General, will pay for this training.
• Management Path: Move from a floor guard to a supervisor or site manager. This requires strong communication and leadership skills. Pay jumps to $50,000 - $65,000. You’ll manage schedules, handle client relations, and oversee a team.
• Federal Contracts: Getting a Security Officer position with a federal agency (like the VA in Chelsea or a federal courthouse) requires a higher clearance but pays significantly more ($60,000+). It’s a long-term goal that requires a clean record and patience.

10-Year Outlook: The field will remain stable, with technology (cameras, access control) changing the job but not eliminating it. The human element for judgment, presence, and emergency response is irreplaceable. Guards who adapt to new tech and specialize will see the best opportunities. In Lynn, the most stable long-term bets are with major institutions—hospitals, universities, and large logistics companies.

The Verdict: Is Lynn Right for You?

Lynn offers a viable but challenging path for a Security Guard. It’s a city of grit and resilience, and the job market reflects that.

Pros	Cons
Stable Job Market: Major employers (hospitals, factories) provide consistent openings.	High Cost of Living: Rent eats a huge portion of the median salary ($37,397).
Proximity to Boston: Easy commute to higher-paying Boston jobs if you’re willing to drive.	Modest Growth: The 3% growth rate means you must be proactive to advance.
Clear Licensing Path: MA has a straightforward, if bureaucratic, process to get started.	Weather & Commute: Winters can be harsh, and public transit is limited outside the core.
Lower Barrier to Entry: You can start earning quickly with minimal upfront training cost.	Limited High-End Employers: Fewer corporate HQs than in Boston or Cambridge.

Final Recommendation: Lynn is a good fit for a Security Guard who is:

• Budget-conscious and willing to live with a roommate or in West Lynn.
• Looking for a stable, entry-to-mid-level job with clear steps for advancement.
• Open to commuting to Boston for higher pay in the future.

It is not the best fit if you are looking for rapid, high-end salary growth without specialization, or if you prefer a suburban, low-density lifestyle.

FAQs

1. Do I need a car to work as a Security Guard in Lynn?
Yes, almost certainly. While some downtown jobs are accessible via the MBTA bus or commuter rail, most posts (hospitals, industrial plants, retail plazas) require a car for shifting schedules and reaching locations not well-served by public transit. Factor car expenses into your budget.

2. Can I get a job with just an unarmed license?
Absolutely. The vast majority of Security Guard jobs in Lynn are unarmed. Start here to gain experience. An armed license is a good next step once you’re established and want to boost your income.

3. Is the cost of living in Lynn really that high?
The 111.6 Cost of Living Index (vs. US avg 100) confirms it. While cheaper than Boston, Lynn’s rents have risen sharply. The key is housing choice—living in a shared apartment in West Lynn makes it manageable on a $37,397 salary.

4. What’s the typical shift like?
Expect 8-12 hour shifts, often overnight or on weekends. Hospitals and 24/7 facilities are always hiring for the “graveyard” shift, which sometimes offers a small premium. Flexibility is key.

5. How do I find a job when I’m new to the area?
Start with the major employers listed above (hospital, college, contractors). Use Indeed and LinkedIn, but also walk into local security company offices. Networking with current guards at Lynn General or the GE plant is an insider tip—many jobs are filled through referrals.

Final Thought: Lynn is a city that rewards hard work and reliability. If you’re a dedicated Security Guard, you can build a solid, steady career here. Just be smart with your money, get licensed, and always keep an eye on the next certification that will put more money in your pocket.