Private Detective Or Investigator salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Private Detective Or Investigator in United States is approximately 54,060 USD (54,195 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 Private Detective Or Investigator do?

A private detective or investigator is a professional hired to conduct investigations and gather information on behalf of individuals, organizations, or attorneys. They work independently or for private investigation agencies, offering a range of services such as background checks, surveillance, locating missing persons, investigating fraud or theft, and conducting undercover operations. Private detectives use various techniques to collect evidence, including interviewing witnesses, conducting research, analyzing documents, and using surveillance equipment. They may also collaborate with law enforcement agencies, lawyers, or insurance companies to assist in solving criminal cases or gathering evidence for legal proceedings.

Skills: Private Detective, Investigator, Surveillance, Background Checks, Missing Persons, Fraud Investigation
Job industry: Professional, scientific, and technical services

How much does Private Detective Or Investigator make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Private Detective Or Investigator a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Private Detective Or Investigator 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 Private Detective Or Investigator?

High salary for Private Detective Or Investigator would be somewhere between 59,466 USD and 78,387 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Private Detective Or Investigator 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: 54,060 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 4,505 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,040 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 26 USD per hour
By working as Private Detective Or Investigator a person can save up to 2,236 USD per month or 26,835 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 Private Detective Or Investigator

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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