SOC 333021
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Conduct investigations related to suspected violations of federal, state, or local laws to prevent or solve crimes. Excludes "Private Detectives and Investigators" (33-9021).
National Median
$93,580
per year
National Salary Overview
Median Annual
$93,580
Entry Level (10th pct)
$54,160
Experienced (90th pct)
$159,410
Total Employed
110,790
Salary Distribution
Salary percentiles show the range from entry-level (10th) to top earners (90th)
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience Level | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Entry Level0-2 years experience | $54,160 - $68,390 |
| Mid Career2-8 years experience | $68,390 - $120,080 |
| Senior / Expert8+ years experience | $120,080 - $159,410 |
Highest Paying Locations for Detectives and Criminal Investigators
#1
Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV
$157,270
+68.1% vs national
#2San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA
$156,890
+67.7% vs national
#3Brunswick-St. Simons, GA
$155,110
+65.8% vs national
#4Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV
$153,340
+63.9% vs national
#5Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura, CA
$143,250
+53.1% vs national
Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary by Location
Compare salaries across 50 metropolitan areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Detectives and Criminal Investigators?
The national median annual salary for Detectives and Criminal Investigators is $93,580, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data. This means half of workers in this occupation earn more, and half earn less.
Where do Detectives and Criminal Investigatorss earn the most?
The highest-paying metro area for Detectives and Criminal Investigatorss is Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-WV, with a median salary of $157,270.
How much can an experienced Detectives and Criminal Investigators make?
Top-earning Detectives and Criminal Investigatorss (90th percentile) make $159,410 or more annually. This typically reflects workers with significant experience, specialized skills, or positions in high-paying regions.