Private Detectives and Investigators Salary in Washington

$30,938 $100,403
10th pct Median: $58,374 90th pct
Percentile Annual Salary
10th (Entry Level)$30,938
25th Percentile$42,029
50th (Median)$58,374
75th Percentile$80,556
90th (Top Earners)$100,403
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

The Washington median salary of $58,374 for Private Detectives and Investigators has the purchasing power of approximately $49,178 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).

Washington's higher cost of living (COL index: 118.7) 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 Washington?
Private Detectives and Investigators in Washington earn a median annual salary of $58,374 per year ($28.06/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is above the national median of $52,120.
Is Washington a good state for Private Detectives and Investigators?
Washington pays above the national average for private detectives and investigators, making it a competitive market for this occupation. Cost of living in Washington is higher average (COL index: 118.7).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Private Detectives and Investigators in Washington?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 118.7 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $58,374 salary in Washington has the purchasing power of approximately $49,178 in Missouri. Higher living costs in Washington reduce real purchasing power.
How does Washington 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 Washington

# Job Title Median Annual
1 Anesthesiologists $372,064
2 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric $342,966
3 Neurologists $331,072
4 Surgeons, All Other $329,862
5 Psychiatrists $279,774
6 Physicians, Pathologists $273,190
7 General Internal Medicine Physicians $272,541
8 Obstetricians and Gynecologists $267,904
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

About Private Detectives and Investigators in Washington

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 →