Lifeguards’ Wages Soar in Select States, Highlighting Economic Disparities

High pay in D.C., Hawaii, and California contrasts with low wages elsewhere, raising questions about labor value and safety priorities.

In May 2024, lifeguards and recreational protective service workers earned mean hourly wages exceeding $21.00 in the District of Columbia ($28.91), Hawaii ($27.83), and California ($21.64), according to the Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics program.

Meanwhile, wages lagged at $12.00 or less in Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Mississippi, exposing stark regional pay gaps. California led employment with nearly 22,000 workers, followed by Texas (11,600) and Florida (10,010), while states like Delaware and Vermont employed fewer than 300.

These disparities underscore broader economic divides, where high-cost states prioritize safety personnel with better pay, potentially attracting skilled workers but straining budgets elsewhere.

Low wages in some regions raise concerns about lifeguard recruitment and public safety risks.

As Americans flock to pools and beaches, these findings highlight the uneven value placed on those ensuring their safety.