Private Detectives and Investigators Salary in California

$34,530 $112,058
10th pct Median: $65,150 90th pct
Percentile Annual Salary
10th (Entry Level)$34,530
25th Percentile$46,908
50th (Median)$65,150
75th Percentile$89,907
90th (Top Earners)$112,058
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

The California median salary of $65,150 for Private Detectives and Investigators has the purchasing power of approximately $43,462 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).

California's higher cost of living (COL index: 149.9) reduces the real purchasing power of wages compared to lower-cost states.

COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Private Detectives and Investigators make in California?
Private Detectives and Investigators in California earn a median annual salary of $65,150 per year ($31.32/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $52,120.
Is California a good state for Private Detectives and Investigators?
California pays above the national average for private detectives and investigators, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in California is higher average (COL index: 149.9).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Private Detectives and Investigators in California?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 149.9 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $65,150 salary in California has the purchasing power of approximately $43,462 in Missouri. Higher living costs in California reduce real purchasing power.
How does California compare to neighboring states for Private Detectives and Investigators salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Private Detectives and Investigators salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.

Top Paying Jobs in California

# Job Title Median Annual
1 Radiologists $387,400
2 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric $382,775
3 Neurologists $369,500
4 Surgeons, All Other $368,150
5 Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric $339,850
6 Psychiatrists $312,248
7 Physicians, Pathologists $304,900
8 General Internal Medicine Physicians $304,175
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

About Private Detectives and Investigators in California

Private Detectives and Investigators work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the protective service sector of the U.S. economy.

Education Required: High school diploma

View national Private Detectives and Investigators salary data →