How Much Do Lifeguards Get Paid?

Have you ever wondered how much lifeguards earn for keeping people safe at pools, beaches, and water parks? Although it may seem like a straightforward job, the salary of a lifeguard can vary based on several factors. From location to level of experience, many aspects play a role in determining how much lifeguards get paid.

In this blog, we’ll break down what influences a lifeguard’s pay, provide an overview of average earnings, and help you understand whether becoming a lifeguard is financially rewarding.

What Affects a Lifeguard’s Salary?

While all lifeguards have similar duties, their pay can differ significantly. The main factors that determine how much they get paid include the following:

1. Location

Lifeguards in some areas earn more than others. For example, those who are working in busy cities or popular tourist destinations often receive higher wages. This is due to higher demand, increased responsibility, and the cost of living in those areas. Therefore, those in large cities or on well-known beaches may earn more than those working at smaller, local pools.

However, it’s not just city or beach lifeguards who benefit from location-based pay. Some pools in wealthier areas might offer higher wages because they can afford to pay more, whereas smaller, community-run pools might have tighter budgets.

2. Type of Facility

The kind of environment a lifeguard works in can also affect how much they earn. A lifeguard working at a public pool may not earn the same as someone working at a large water park or luxury resort. Facilities with more visitors or those that offer premium services often pay more to ensure they have well-trained staff. On the other hand, smaller pools or less busy facilities may offer lower wages.

3. Experience and Certifications

Experience plays a huge role in determining how much lifeguards get paid. A new lifeguard might start at an entry-level wage, while someone with several years of experience may earn more. Moreover, having additional certifications, such as advanced first aid or water rescue training, can also increase a lifeguard’s salary. Thus, more experienced and well-trained employees are often seen as more valuable to employers and compensated accordingly.

4. Full-time vs Part-time

Whether a lifeguard works full-time or part-time can impact their earnings. Full-time employees often receive a stable salary and might even get benefits like paid holidays. Part-time or seasonal lifeguards, however, may only be paid for the hours they work, which can result in less consistent income. Therefore, those who work throughout the year rather than just during the summer may earn more annually.

How Much Do Lifeguards Earn in the UK?

On average, lifeguards in the UK earn between £8 to £12 per hour. However, this figure can vary greatly depending on the factors mentioned earlier. A lifeguard working at a local community pool might earn closer to £8 an hour, while someone working at a popular tourist destination could earn £12 or more.

Moreover, the annual salary for a full-time lifeguard usually ranges from £16,000 to £25,000. However, those who work in high-demand areas, such as major cities or large resorts, could earn even more.

Lifeguard Salary by Region

The salaries of lifeguards can be different in different regions in the UK.  Here’s a quick breakdown of how lifeguard wages can differ by region in the UK:

London

In London, where the cost of living is higher, they can expect to earn on the upper end of the scale. Professionals here often earn between £10 and £15 per hour due to the higher demand and greater responsibilities of working in a busy urban environment.

Coastal Areas

Coastal lifeguards, especially those working in well-known beach towns, can earn more than their counterparts at local pools. These professionals can earn around £10 to £13 per hour. Beaches can be busier than pools, and the added challenges of tides and larger crowds justify the higher pay.

Small Towns and Rural Areas

In smaller towns or rural areas, they might earn closer to the lower end of the pay scale. These areas tend to have fewer resources and smaller facilities, which means lifeguards in these locations typically earn around £8 to £10 per hour.

Additional Benefits

While the hourly wage or annual salary is important, many professionals also enjoy additional benefits. These may include free or discounted access to the pool or facility where they work, flexible hours, and paid training. Moreover, some employers offer health and pension benefits to full-time lifeguards, making the job more attractive as a long-term career option.

Furthermore, those working at resorts or holiday parks may even receive perks like free accommodation or food. These added benefits can help offset lower wages, especially for seasonal or part-time workers. As a result, the overall compensation for these professionals often goes beyond just their hourly rate.

Lifeguard Career Progression

Many people view lifeguarding as a summer job or something for students, but it can also be a long-term career. Those who gain more experience and certifications can progress to higher-paying roles. For example, some of them go on to become:

• Senior Lifeguards: With more experience, some of them can take on leadership roles, overseeing other lifeguards and ensuring that safety protocols are followed. Senior professionals often earn more than regular professionals and may have additional responsibilities.

• Swimming Instructors: Some professionals use their experience and certifications to become swimming instructors. Teaching others how to swim can be a rewarding job, and instructors often earn higher hourly rates than lifeguards.

• Lifeguard Trainers: Experienced professionals can also train new lifeguards, which can lead to a higher salary. Being a lifeguard trainer requires advanced certifications, but it is a natural progression for those who want to continue in the field.

Is Lifeguarding a Good Job?

Lifeguarding can be a rewarding job, both in terms of experience and salary. While the pay may not always be as high as other professions, it offers flexibility and the opportunity to work in different environments. Moreover, as they gain experience and certifications, their earning potential increases.

Thus, lifeguarding can be a good option for those looking for seasonal work or a career with room for growth. With the right experience and location, they can earn a decent wage while doing an important job.

Conclusion

While the average hourly wage in the UK is between £8 to £12, various factors like location, experience, and the type of facility can influence a lifeguard’s salary. Moreover, lifeguards who invest in additional certifications and experience may earn more and even progress to higher-paying roles. Therefore, lifeguarding is not just a summer job; it can be a rewarding career with plenty of growth opportunities. If you’re ready to take the first step towards a fulfilling and financially rewarding role, enrol in a Lifeguard Course with the Course Cave today and start your journey to becoming a certified lifeguard.