Private Detectives and Investigators
Job Zone 3 - Medium preparation needed
Gather, analyze, compile, and report information regarding individuals or organizations to clients, or detect occurrences of unlawful acts or infractions of rules in private establishment.
Median pay: $51,220/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +6% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 3,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Write reports or case summaries to document investigations.
• Conduct private investigations on a paid basis.
• Search computer databases, credit reports, public records, tax or legal filings, or other resources to locate persons or to compile information for investigations.
• Conduct personal background investigations, such as pre-employment checks, to obtain information about an individual's character, financial status, or personal history.
• Expose fraudulent insurance claims or stolen funds.
• Obtain and analyze information on suspects, crimes, or disturbances to solve cases, to identify criminal activity, or to gather information for court cases.
• Testify at hearings or court trials to present evidence.
• Question persons to obtain evidence for cases of divorce, child custody, or missing persons or information about individuals' character or financial status.
What's the median pay for Private Detectives and Investigators?
The median pay for Private Detectives and Investigators is $51,220 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Private Detectives and Investigators?
Employment for Private Detectives and Investigators is projected to change +6% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Private Detectives and Investigators?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Private Detectives and Investigators?
About 3,900 openings per year, on average, over the decade.