Detectives

Median annual earnings of police detectives and criminal investigators were $91,100 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). The lowest paid 10 percent earned $50,670 or less, while the highest paid 10 percent earned more than $154,360 annually. Fifty percent of police detectives and criminal investigators earned between $64,830 and $116,170. Median annual earnings were $75,780 for those worked for state agencies, and $82,880 for those who were employed by local agencies. Compensation generally increases considerably with experience. Police departments generally offer better than average benefits, including health insurance, paid vacation, sick days, and pension plans.

Median annual earnings of salaried private detectives and investigators were $49,540 in May 2023, according to the DOL. The lowest paid 10 percent earned less than $36,060, and the highest paid 10 percent earned more than $96,600. Fifty percent of salaried private detectives and investigators earned between $40,130 and $74,830.

Private investigators who are self-employed have the potential to earn much higher salaries. Hourly fees of $50 to $150 and even more, excluding expenses, are possible. Detectives who work for an agency may receive benefits, such as health insurance, but self-employed investigators must provide their own.