How Much Do Security Guards Make in Ontario?
If you’re thinking about becoming a security guard, one of the first questions is:
“How much do security guards make in Ontario?”
The answer depends on a few factors—but we can break it down simply so you know what to expect.
How Much Do Security Guards Make in Ontario?
In Ontario, most security guards earn between $17 and $25 per hour.
According to the Government of Canada Job Bank:
👉 https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/marketreport/wages-occupation/12990/ON
Entry-level: around $16–$18/hour
Average: around $18–$21/hour
Experienced: $22–$25+/hour
👉 Pay can vary depending on the job, location, and level of responsibility.
Security Guard Salary Ontario (Annual Breakdown)
If you work full-time, here’s what that looks like:
Entry-level: $33,000 – $38,000 per year
Mid-level: $38,000 – $45,000 per year
Experienced: $45,000 – $55,000+ per year
Some roles with overtime or specialized duties can earn more.
What Affects Security Guard Pay in Ontario?
Not all security jobs pay the same.
Here are the main factors that impact your wage:
1. Experience Level
The more experience you have, the more you can earn.
New guards start at lower hourly rates
Experienced guards with strong reporting and decision-making skills earn more
2. Type of Security Role
Different roles come with different responsibilities—and pay.
Static Security (On-Site Guards)
Fixed location (retail, residential, office)
Typically entry to mid-level pay
Mobile Patrol
Driving between sites
Higher responsibility → higher pay
Specialized Roles
Loss prevention
Tactical or high-risk sites
Supervisors
👉 These roles usually pay more due to increased responsibility.
3. Location in Ontario
Wages can vary by city.
Larger cities (Toronto, Hamilton, Kitchener) may offer slightly higher pay
Smaller areas may offer lower starting wages but steady work
4. Certifications and Training
Additional training can increase your earning potential.
Examples include:
Use of force training
First Aid / CPR
Crisis intervention
Specialized site certifications
👉 Employers often pay more for guards with advanced skills.
5. Employer and Contract Type
Different companies and contracts offer different pay structures.
Government or institutional contracts may pay more
Private contracts vary based on risk and requirements
Some roles include overtime or shift premiums
Entry-Level vs Experienced Security Guard Pay
Here’s a simple comparison:
Level | Hourly Pay | What to Expect
Entry-Level | $16–$18 | Basic duties, training phase
Mid-Level | $18–$21 | Independent work, reporting
Experienced. | $22–$25+ | Leadership, complex sites
Can You Make More as a Security Guard?
Yes.
Security is a field where you can grow over time.
You can increase your income by:
Gaining experience
Taking on higher-responsibility sites
Moving into supervisor roles
Developing specialized skills
Real-World Example
A new guard starts working at a retail site at $17/hour.
After gaining experience and additional training:
Moves into mobile patrol → $20/hour
Becomes a site lead or supervisor → $23–$25/hour
👉 Growth is based on performance and responsibility.
Is Security a Good Career in Ontario?
For many people, yes.
Security offers:
Steady work
Flexible hours
Opportunities to grow
Entry into law enforcement or related fields
It’s also a strong starting point for careers in:
Policing
Corrections
Emergency services
How to Get Started in Security
To work as a security guard in Ontario, you must:
Complete required training
Pass the provincial exam
Apply for a security guard license
Learn more here:
Security Guard Basic Training Course
Final Answer
Security guards in Ontario typically earn between $17 and $25 per hour, depending on experience, role, and location.
With the right training and experience, there is clear potential to earn more over time.
Thinking About a Career in Security?
If you’re exploring security as a career, understanding pay is just the first step.
The real value comes from:
Gaining experience
Building skills
Working with professional teams
Security is more than a job—it’s a path with real growth opportunities.
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