How Much Do Detectives Make?

Detectives, those enigmatic figures who solve crimes, piece together clues, and navigate the murky waters of investigations, often capture our imagination. But what about their own financial mysteries? How much do these modern-day sleuths actually earn? Let’s lift the veil and explore the numbers.

  1. The Average Detective Salary

In the United States, the average annual salary for a detective hovers around $83,640. Not too shabby, right? But let’s break it down further.

  1. The Ranges
  • Starting Level Detectives: These fresh-faced investigators begin their careers with an hourly wage of approximately $23.10 or an annual salary of $48,040. They’re the rookies, eager to prove themselves.
  • Mid-Level Detectives: As they gain experience, detectives at this level earn around $40.21 per hour or $83,640 annually. They’re the backbone of investigative teams.
  • Senior-Level Detectives: These seasoned professionals command an hourly wage of about $51.22 or an impressive yearly sum of $106,540. They’ve seen it all and can smell a cover-up from a mile away.
  • Top-Level Detectives: At the pinnacle of their careers, these elite investigators rake in a princely $70.59 per hour or a whopping $146,830 annually. They’re the Sherlock Holmeses of our time.
  1. State-by-State Variation

Detective salaries vary across the map. Here are some intriguing tidbits:

  • Highest Earning States:
    • New Jersey: Detectives here pocket an average of $99,880 annually.
    • New York: Not far behind, New York detectives earn around $99,630 per year.
    • Hawaii and Colorado: Both states offer detectives an average of $99,580 annually.
  • The District of Columbia: A detective’s paradise, where the average salary soars to an impressive $133,930 per year.
  • Alaska: Another chilly haven for detectives, with an average annual salary of $133,600.
  • Maryland: Detectives here earn a respectable $113,360 annually.
  1. Comparing Detective Salaries
  • Detectives earn 11% less than judges but more than sheriffs.
  • They also outpace coroners but fall short of compliance managers and makeup artists
  1. The Job Market

Currently, there are approximately 110,900 detectives in the United States. The detective job market is expected to grow by 4.5% between 2016 and 2026.

  1. Conclusion

So, whether you’re a budding gumshoe or a seasoned investigator, the path to financial intrigue lies ahead. Remember, salary is just one piece of the puzzle—what truly makes a detective’s career fulfilling is the thrill of solving mysteries, one clue at a time.

Stay curious, my fellow detectives! 

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