How much does a Prison Guard make in the United States?
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The average Prison Guard salary in the United States is $39,184 as of September 2026. The range for our most popular Prison Guard positions (listed below) typically falls between $34,975 and $43,392. Keep in mind that salary ranges can vary widely depending on many important factors, including position, education, certifications, additional skills, and the number of years you have spent in your profession. With more online, real-time compensation data than any other website, Salary.com helps you determine your exact pay target.
Prison Guard's Annual Base Salary
| $0K $20K $40K $60K $80K | |
| Prison Officer | |
| Prison Chaplain | |
| Prison Counselor | |
| Prison Teacher | |
| Prison Governor | |
| Guard | |
| Prison Custody Officer | |
| Crossing Guard | |
| Security Guard | |
| Traffic Guard |
Prison Guard's Annual Base Salary
| Job Title | Salary | Hourly Rate | Location | Date Updated |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prison Officer | $53,505 | $25.72 | United States | September 2026 |
| Prison Chaplain | $63,726 | $30.64 | United States | September 2026 |
| Prison Counselor | $43,143 | $20.74 | United States | September 2026 |
| Prison Teacher | $53,822 | $25.88 | United States | September 2026 |
| Prison Governor | $44,406 | $21.35 | United States | September 2026 |
| Guard | $38,411 | $18.47 | United States | September 2026 |
| Prison Custody Officer | $44,759 | $21.52 | United States | September 2026 |
| Crossing Guard | $30,151 | $14.50 | United States | September 2026 |
| Security Guard | $46,740 | $22.47 | United States | September 2026 |
| Traffic Guard | $54,919 | $26.40 | United States | September 2026 |
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Escorts people to and from a designated area. May require a high school diploma or its equivalent and 2-4 years of experience in the field or in a related area. Is familiar with standard concepts, practices, and procedures within a particular field. Relies on limited experience and judgment to plan and accomplish goals. Performs a variety of tasks. A certain degree of creativity and latitude is required. Typically reports to a supervisor/manager. View Crossing Guard SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Pedestrian Crossing Guard, School Crossing Guard
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Provides security and guards buildings, grounds, materials, work sites, or other venues. Monitors security systems and responds to alarms, reports of issues, or requests for assistance. Patrols an assigned location. Follows required gate-keeping procedures such as verifying visitor credentials, conducting inspections, or preparing paperwork. May operate an access control or identity system to control building access. Completes shift activity logs and inputs to systems. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Requires Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. May require a Security Guard License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works under the close direction of senior personnel in the functional area. Possesses a moderate understanding of general aspects of the job. May require 0-1 year of general work experience. View Security Guard - Unarmed SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Security Associate, Security Guard I, Security Patrol Specialist
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Provides security and guards buildings, grounds, materials, work sites, or other venues. Monitors security systems and responds to alarms, reports of issues, or requests for assistance. Patrols an assigned location. Follows required gate-keeping procedures such as verifying visitor credentials, conducting inspections, or preparing paperwork. May operate an access control or identity system to control building access. Completes shift activity logs and inputs to systems. Typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent. Requires Basic Life Support (BLS). Typically requires Firearms Certification. Requires Security Guard License. Typically reports to a supervisor. Works independently within established procedures associated with the specific job function. Has gained proficiency in multiple competencies relevant to the job. Typically requires 3-5 years of related experience. View Security Guard - Armed SalaryAlternate Job Titles:Security Guard II, Security Senior Associate, Senior Security Patrol Specialist