Security Guard Salary UK 2026 | Take-Home Pay Calculator
The UK private security industry continues to grow in 2026, driven by increased demand for asset protection, corporate concierge services, and event management. Whether you are looking to become a static guard, a CCTV operator, or a high-end close protection officer, understanding your potential earnings is crucial. Use our comprehensive guide and 2026 calculator to determine your take-home pay after tax and National Insurance.
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Security Guard Salary Calculator 2026
Calculate your weekly, monthly, and yearly take-home pay based on your hourly rate and hours worked. Updated for the 2025/2026 tax year.
Estimated Take-Home Pay (2025/26 Tax Year)
*Estimates based on standard tax code 1257L. Does not include pension contributions or student loans.
UK Security Salary Overview 2026
In 2026, the landscape for security professionals in the United Kingdom has shifted due to inflation adjustments and the rising National Living Wage. The security sector, regulated largely by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), offers a wide variance in pay depending on the risk level, required training, and location of the role.
Entry-level positions, typically referred to as "Static Guarding" or retail security, generally hover just above the National Minimum Wage, typically offering between £11.44 and £14.00 per hour. This translates to a gross annual income of approximately £21,000 to £28,000 depending on whether the guard works a standard 40-hour week or takes on overtime and 12-hour shifts common in the industry.
Conversely, specialized roles such as Close Protection (Bodyguarding) or Cyber-Physical Security Specialists command significantly higher salaries. A seasoned Close Protection Officer (CPO) working for high-net-worth individuals or corporate executives can expect to earn between £40,000 and £80,000+, with some top-tier contracts exceeding £100,000 per annum.
Detailed Salary Breakdown by Role
It is essential to distinguish between the different types of SIA licences and the roles they enable, as this is the primary driver of salary potential.
1. Static Security Guard
Hourly Rate: £11.44 - £14.00
Annual Salary: £21,000 - £27,000
Static guards are responsible for manning gatehouses, reception desks in corporate buildings, or monitoring construction sites. While the physical demands may be lower than mobile patrols, the hours are long. In 2026, many corporate static guard roles have evolved into "concierge security," requiring better customer service skills and commanding rates closer to £15/hour in London.
2. Retail Security Officer
Hourly Rate: £12.00 - £15.00
Annual Salary: £23,000 - £30,000
Retail security involves loss prevention and dealing with the public. Due to the higher risk of confrontation and the need for conflict management skills, these roles often pay slightly more than basic static guarding. Experienced store detectives can earn upwards of £32,000.
3. Mobile Patrol Officer
Hourly Rate: £12.50 - £16.00
Annual Salary: £24,000 - £32,000
Mobile patrol officers drive between multiple sites to conduct inspections. This role requires a driving licence and the ability to work independently. The added responsibility of a vehicle and key-holding duties justifies the higher pay bracket.
4. CCTV Operator (Public Space Surveillance)
Hourly Rate: £12.00 - £15.50
Annual Salary: £22,000 - £29,000
CCTV operators work in control rooms monitoring screens. This role requires high concentration levels. In 2026, proficiency with AI-assisted monitoring software is becoming a desirable skill that can push wages higher.
5. Door Supervisor (Bouncers)
Hourly Rate: £15.00 - £25.00 (Often casual/weekend)
Annual Salary: Varies heavily based on hours
Working at clubs, bars, and events, door supervisors face higher physical risks. While the hourly rate is attractive, the hours are often unsociable (nights and weekends) and may not always guarantee a full-time income unless combined with other security work.
6. Close Protection Officer (CPO)
Daily Rate: £250 - £500+
Annual Salary: £40,000 - £100,000+
The elite tier of the private security industry. CPOs protect VIPs, celebrities, and executives. This role requires the most expensive training and often a background in the military or police. Salaries in this sector are highly dependent on reputation, networking, and the specific risk profile of the principal (the client).
7. Security Manager
Annual Salary: £30,000 - £55,000
Managers oversee teams of guards, handle rostering, client liaisons, and compliance. Regional managers for large security firms can earn significantly more, often including company cars and performance bonuses.
SIA Licence Requirements & Costs 2026
To work legally in the UK private security industry, you must hold a licence from the Security Industry Authority (SIA). Working without one is a criminal offence, both for the operative and the employer.
- Application Fee: The cost of the licence application itself remains £190 for a three-year period. If you apply for a second licence (e.g., holding both CCTV and Door Supervisor), the second one is discounted by 50%.
- Training Costs: Before applying, you must pass an accredited training course.
- Door Supervisor Course: Typically 6 days, costing £250 - £350. This includes physical intervention training and First Aid.
- Security Guarding Course: Typically 4 days, costing £200 - £250. Note: A Door Supervisor licence covers you for standard guarding, but a Guarding licence does not cover you for licensed premises (alcohol). Therefore, most people opt for the Door Supervisor qualification for flexibility.
- CCTV Operator: 3 days, approx £200.
- Close Protection: 16-21 days, costing £2,500 - £4,000+ depending on whether it includes firearms training (for overseas work) or advanced driving.
Take-Home Pay Examples (2025/2026 Tax Year)
The following tables illustrate what a security professional might actually bank at the end of the month at various salary points. These calculations assume a standard tax code (1257L) and Class 1 National Insurance contributions.
Example 1: Entry Level Guard (£24,000 Gross)
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Income | £24,000 |
| Taxable Income | £11,430 |
| Income Tax (20%) | £2,286 |
| National Insurance (~8%) | £1,098 |
| Yearly Take-Home | £20,616 |
| Monthly Take-Home | £1,718 |
Example 2: Experienced / Supervisor (£30,000 Gross)
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Income | £30,000 |
| Taxable Income | £17,430 |
| Income Tax (20%) | £3,486 |
| National Insurance (~8%) | £1,578 |
| Yearly Take-Home | £24,936 |
| Monthly Take-Home | £2,078 |
Example 3: Manager / Close Protection (£50,000 Gross)
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Gross Income | £50,000 |
| Taxable Income | £37,430 |
| Income Tax (20%) | £7,486 |
| National Insurance (~8%) | £3,178 |
| Yearly Take-Home | £39,336 |
| Monthly Take-Home | £3,278 |
Major Security Employers in the UK
The UK security market is dominated by several large multinational corporations, alongside thousands of smaller local agencies. Securing employment with a major firm often guarantees better stability, pension contributions, and structured career progression.
- G4S: One of the world's largest security companies, offering roles ranging from cash-in-transit to prison security and event stewardship.
- Securitas: Known for technology-led security solutions, Securitas often recruits for mobile patrols and high-tech monitoring centers.
- Mitie: A major facilities management company that holds significant government and retail contracts.
- Corps Security: The oldest security company in the world, with a strong focus on corporate security and ex-military recruitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Disclaimer: This article provides general guidance on security guard salaries in the UK as of 2026. Tax rules and minimum wage legislation are subject to change by His Majesty's Government. Always consult a qualified accountant or the HMRC website for personal financial advice.