Security Guard in Manchester, NH

The Salary Picture: Where Manchester Stands

Let's cut right to the numbers, because that's what matters when you're deciding on a move. The median salary for a Security Guard in the Manchester, NH metro area is $36,692/year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $17.64/hour. This is slightly above the national average for the occupation, which sits at $36,140/year. It's a small margin, but in a state with no income tax and a moderate cost of living, every dollar counts.

The job market here is stable but not booming. The metro area, which includes Manchester and the surrounding communities like Derry and Bedford, supports about 230 security guard positions. The 10-year job growth projection is a modest 3%. This tells you a few things: demand is consistent, with turnover creating openings, but you shouldn't expect a massive influx of new security guard positions. It's a "get your foot in the door, prove your worth, and move up" market.

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

Experience Level	Typical Responsibilities	Estimated Annual Salary Range
Entry-Level	Patrolling sites, access control, reporting incidents. Often unarmed.	$32,000 - $38,000
Mid-Level	Armed posts, specialized facilities (hospitals, data centers), shift lead.	$38,000 - $45,000
Senior-Level	Supervisor, training coordinator, managing contracts or client accounts.	$45,000 - $55,000
Expert/Specialist	Corporate security director, risk management, critical infrastructure protection.	$55,000 - $75,000+

Compared to other New Hampshire cities, Manchester is the middle ground. The Nashua metro area pays slightly more, on average, sometimes by $1-2/hour, due to its proximity to the Massachusetts border and higher corporate presence. Concord, the state capital, often has state government and legislative jobs that can pay at the higher end of the mid-level range. Dover/Rochester (Seacoast) can be more seasonal but may have premium rates for specialized maritime or tourism security. Manchester remains the largest hub for pure volume of opportunities, especially in healthcare and retail.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

The median salary of $36,692 translates to approximately $3,057 per month before taxes. In New Hampshire, you're not paying state income tax, which is a significant boost. However, federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare will still take a bite. Expect your take-home pay to be around $2,600 - $2,700 per month.

Now, let's factor in the biggest local expense: rent. The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the Manchester metro area is $1,348/month. This is close to the U.S. average, but the Cost of Living Index is 105.1 (US avg = 100), meaning overall expenses are about 5% higher than the national average.

Monthly Budget Breakdown for an Entry-Level Guard:

• Monthly Take-Home Pay: $2,650
• Rent (1BR): $1,348
• Remaining for Utilities, Food, Transportation, Savings: $1,302

Utilities (electric, gas, internet) can add $150-$250/month, and a car payment/insurance/gas is essential in Manchester. A modest car payment and insurance could be $400-$600/month. After these, you're left with roughly $500-$700 for food, savings, and everything else. It's doable with careful budgeting, but there's little room for error or major savings.

Can you afford to buy a home? At the median salary, it's challenging. The median home price in the Manchester area is over $350,000. A conventional mortgage for that amount, with a 20% down payment ($70,000), would result in a monthly payment (including taxes and insurance) likely exceeding $2,000/month. This is a significant portion of your take-home pay. Homeownership is generally more feasible for security guards in mid-level or senior positions, or for those in a dual-income household.

Where the Jobs Are: Manchester's Major Employers

Manchester's security job market is driven by several key sectors. Knowing where to look is half the battle. Here are the major local employers, with insights into their hiring trends:

1. Elliot Health System: As the largest employer in the region, Elliot Hospital is a constant source for security jobs. They need guards for 24/7 coverage, patient and staff safety, and asset protection. Hiring is steady, and they often post directly on their website. Insider tip: Experience in de-escalation and a clean background check are non-negotiable here. Shifts often include nights and weekends, which can come with a small differential pay.

2. Manchester Police Department (MPD) / City of Manchester: While not a traditional security company, the city employs security for municipal buildings, events, and public facilities. These are competitive, salaried positions that often require more experience or related law enforcement background. Check the City of Manchester's jobs portal. Hiring is tied to the city's budget cycle.

3. Securitas (for various contracts): Securitas is a major global security firm with a significant presence in New Hampshire, servicing many of Manchester's corporate and industrial clients. They provide security for manufacturing plants, corporate offices, and retail centers. They are often the first point of contact for large-scale contracts. Insider tip: They frequently offer training for new hires, including armed guard certification for those who qualify. Pay is competitive with the market median.

4. Stonyfield Yogurt (Danone North America): Located in nearby Londonderry, Stonyfield is a major local employer with high-security needs for its manufacturing facility. These are often steady, full-time positions with good benefits. The focus is on perimeter security, access control, and logistics. Hiring trends follow production schedules.

5. Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT): The airport requires a dedicated security workforce for terminal screening, perimeter patrols, and access control. These jobs are governed by federal standards (TSA) and often require specific training. Pay can be slightly above the local median due to the specialized nature. Check directly with the airport or TSA contractors.

6. Retail Centers (e.g., Mall of New Hampshire, Walmart, Target): Retail security is a huge segment. Theft prevention and customer safety are key. Many of these positions are contracted through firms like Securitas or G4S. Hiring can be seasonal, with a spike before the holidays. Insider tip: Retail security is a great way to get your foot in the door for entry-level experience.

Getting Licensed in NH

In New Hampshire, security guards are licensed through the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Division of Licensing. It's a straightforward process, but it has costs and a timeline.

• Requirements: You must be at least 21 years old, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, and have no felony convictions. You must complete a state-approved training course (40 hours for unarmed, 14 hours for armed, plus 8 hours of state-mandated training).
• Costs: The application fee is $100 (subject to change). Training course fees vary by provider but expect to pay $300-$600 for a basic unarmed guard course. Firearms training for armed guards is additional.
• Timeline: The entire process, from starting training to receiving your license, typically takes 4-8 weeks. This assumes you can secure a training slot, complete the course, and have your background check processed. It's best to start the process before you move, if possible, to be job-ready.
• Resources: The primary source is the NH Department of Safety website. They list approved training schools and provide the application packet. For federal roles (like airports), additional TSA-specific training is required.

Best Neighborhoods for Security Guards

Manchester is a city of distinct neighborhoods, each with a different vibe and commute profile. Choosing the right one can impact your quality of life and budget.

1. Downtown Manchester: The heart of the action. Easy walking or short drives to many major employers (Elliot Hospital, city buildings, retail). Rent for a 1BR is likely $1,400-$1,600/month. Best for those who want to avoid a long commute and enjoy urban life. Insider tip: Parking can be a challenge and an added expense in some buildings. Look for apartments with dedicated spots.

2. The Millyard District: Adjacent to downtown, this revitalized area is home to tech companies and restaurants. Slightly cheaper than downtown proper, with 1BR rents around $1,200-$1,400/month. A great balance of urban access and a slightly quieter, more industrial-chic feel.

3. Bedford (West Side of the River): A more suburban, affluent area. Commute to downtown is 10-15 minutes. It's home to many corporate headquarters and high-end retail. Rent is higher here, often $1,500-$1,800/month for a 1BR. Ideal for those seeking a quieter, family-friendly environment. You might find higher-paying corporate security jobs here.

4. South Manchester (Pine Valley/Candia Road Area): More residential and affordable. Rents can be found in the $1,100-$1,350/month range. Commutes are reasonable (15-20 minutes to downtown). Good for those who want a suburban feel with easy access to the city's main arteries for work.

5. Goffstown: A separate town just north of Manchester, offering a classic New England village feel. Rents are similar to South Manchester ($1,100-$1,400/month). The commute is easy via Route 114. Perfect for those who want a small-town community but work in Manchester.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Security is not just a job; it's a career path with room for advancement. The 3% growth rate means you can't just wait for openings; you have to create them.

• Specialty Premiums: Certifications add value. Armed guards can earn $2-$4/hour more than unarmed. Specialized training in areas like crisis intervention, first aid/CPR (often required by employers like Elliot Hospital), or electronic surveillance systems can lead to better assignments and pay.
• Advancement Paths:
  • Vertical: Guard → Shift Lead → Supervisor → Account Manager → Operations Manager.
  • Lateral: Move from a retail post to a more specialized role in healthcare, corporate, or government security.
  • Educational: Pursuing an associate's degree in criminal justice or security management can open doors to corporate security director roles. Many companies offer tuition assistance.
• 10-Year Outlook: With 3% growth, the landscape will be similar but more technologically integrated. Expect more emphasis on cybersecurity awareness, CCTV monitoring, and integrated security systems. The senior-level and specialist roles will be in higher demand as experienced guards retire. The key is to stay adaptable and continuously upskill. The foundation of $36,692 can grow substantially with proactive career management.

The Verdict: Is Manchester Right for You?

Pros	Cons
No State Income Tax: Maximizes your take-home pay.	High Cost of Living: Rent and utilities eat into the budget.
Stable Job Market: Steady demand from healthcare, retail, and industry.	Limited Growth: Job growth is slow (3%), requiring proactive advancement.
Manageable Commutes: Most jobs are within a 15-20 minute drive.	Competitive Entry-Level Market: Many applicants for a limited number of jobs (230 total).
Variety of Employers: Options from hospitals to airports to retail.	Weather: Winters can be harsh, affecting commutes and outdoor guarding posts.
Centrally Located: Easy access to Boston, the Seacoast, and mountains.	Median Salary vs. Rent: $36,692 is tight against $1,348/month rent.

Final Recommendation: Manchester, NH is a solid choice for security guards who are practical, financially disciplined, and career-focused. It's not a place to get rich quickly, but it offers a stable foundation, no state tax, and clear paths for advancement. It's ideal for a single person or a dual-income couple willing to budget carefully. If you're looking for rapid job growth or easy homeownership on an entry-level salary, you may find it challenging. However, if you see security as a long-term career and are willing to invest in training and experience, Manchester provides a stable and respectable platform to build upon.

FAQs

1. Is the cost of living really that high in Manchester?
The index of 105.1 means it's 5% above the national average. While not as extreme as Boston, rent and healthcare costs are significant drivers. Your biggest expense will be housing. Being willing to have a roommate can drastically improve your financial flexibility.

2. Do I need to be armed to get a good job?
Not necessarily. Many excellent positions in healthcare (Elliot Hospital) and retail are unarmed. However, armed guards do have a higher earning potential and access to certain contracts (corporate, industrial). It's a personal choice based on your comfort level and career goals.

3. What's the best way to find a security job in Manchester?
Check the NH Department of Employment Security job board. Look directly on the websites of major employers like Elliot Health System and the City of Manchester. For contracted jobs, search on Indeed and LinkedIn for Securitas, G4S, and other large firms. Networking with current guards at your target employers can also lead to referrals.

4. How does the winter impact security jobs?
It adds a layer of challenge. Outdoor patrol posts require proper cold-weather gear (often provided by the employer). Commutes can be delayed. Some seasonal positions (e.g., at retail centers) may end after the holidays. However, indoor posts at hospitals, corporate offices, and airports remain unaffected and are in high demand.

5. Can I make a career out of security in Manchester?
Yes, if you are strategic. The median salary of $36,692 is a starting point. By gaining experience, earning certifications (armed, CPR, crisis intervention), and pursuing supervisory roles, you can realistically reach the $45,000 - $55,000 range within 5-7 years. The key is to treat it as a profession, not just a job.