Private Detectives and Investigators Salary in District of Columbia

$36,463 $118,333
10th pct Median: $68,798 90th pct
Percentile Annual Salary
10th (Entry Level)$36,463
25th Percentile$49,535
50th (Median)$68,798
75th Percentile$94,941
90th (Top Earners)$118,333
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

The District of Columbia median salary of $68,798 for Private Detectives and Investigators has the purchasing power of approximately $44,645 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).

District of Columbia's higher cost of living (COL index: 154.1) 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 District of Columbia?
Private Detectives and Investigators in District of Columbia earn a median annual salary of $68,798 per year ($33.08/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $52,120.
Is District of Columbia a good state for Private Detectives and Investigators?
District of Columbia pays above the national average for private detectives and investigators, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in District of Columbia is higher average (COL index: 154.1).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Private Detectives and Investigators in District of Columbia?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 154.1 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $68,798 salary in District of Columbia has the purchasing power of approximately $44,645 in Missouri. Higher living costs in District of Columbia reduce real purchasing power.
How does District of Columbia 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 District of Columbia

# Job Title Median Annual
1 Radiologists $409,094
2 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric $404,210
3 Neurologists $390,192
4 Surgeons, All Other $388,766
5 Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric $358,882
6 Psychiatrists $329,733
7 Physicians, Pathologists $321,974
8 General Internal Medicine Physicians $321,209
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

About Private Detectives and Investigators in District of Columbia

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 →