Average Detective or Criminal Investigator Salary

$75,622
Avg. Base Salary (USD)
10%
$51k
MEDIAN
$76k
90%
$139k

The average salary for a Detective or Criminal Investigator is $75,622 in 2026

Base Salary
$51k - $139k
Bonus
$1k - $12k
Profit Sharing
$0 - $6k
Commission
$0 - $8k
Total Pay
$50k - $142k
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FAQs About Detective or Criminal Investigators

What is the highest pay for Detective or Criminal Investigators?

Our data indicates that the highest pay for a Detective or Criminal Investigator is $139k / year

What is the lowest pay for Detective or Criminal Investigators?

Our data indicates that the lowest pay for a Detective or Criminal Investigator is $51k / year

How can Detective or Criminal Investigators increase their salary?

Increasing your pay as a Detective or Criminal Investigator is possible in different ways. Change of employer: Consider a career move to a new employer that is willing to pay higher for your skills. Level of Education: Gaining advanced degrees may allow this role to increase their income potential and qualify for promotions. Managing Experience: If you are a Detective or Criminal Investigator that oversees more junior Detective or Criminal Investigators, this experience can increase the likelihood to earn more.