Prison Guard salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Prison Guard in United States is approximately 50,942 USD (50,906 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Prison Guard do?

A prison guard, also known as a correctional officer, is responsible for maintaining order and security within a correctional facility. Their primary role is to ensure the safety of inmates, staff, and visitors while preventing escapes and maintaining control over the inmate population. Prison guards enforce rules and regulations, conduct searches, and monitor inmate activities to prevent violence, drug use, and other illegal activities. They are responsible for supervising daily routines, such as meals, recreation, and work assignments, and may also provide counseling and support to inmates. Additionally, prison guards must document incidents, write reports, and testify in court when necessary.

Skills: Prison guard, Correctional officer, Law enforcement, Security, Inmate supervision, Safety.
Job industry: Correctional services

How much does Prison Guard make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 4 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Prison Guard a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Prison Guard is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Prison Guard?

High salary for Prison Guard would be somewhere between 56,036 USD and 73,866 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Prison Guard in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 50,942 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 4,245 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 980 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 24 USD per hour
By working as Prison Guard a person can save up to 1,962 USD per month or 23,546 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: Canada, Mexico.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Prison Guard

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in United States

Data as of 2025

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