How much does a Field Investigator make?
Field investigators play a crucial role in gathering information and data. They work in various industries, including insurance, law enforcement, and market research. Their salary can vary based on experience and location. On average, a field investigator earns about $55,170 per year. This figure can change depending on several factors.
Several elements influence a field investigator's salary. These include the industry they work in, their level of experience, and the region where they are employed. For instance, those in urban areas may earn more than those in rural areas. Also, investigators with more years of experience often receive higher pay. The type of work they do can also affect their earnings. For example, those in insurance might have different pay scales compared to those in law enforcement.
What are the highest paying cities for a Field Investigator?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $100,969
In Washington, DC, professionals gather data for government agencies and private firms. The area offers many opportunities with companies like ABC Investigations. The work often involves visiting sites and interviewing people.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $83,696
San Diego offers a mix of coastal and urban environments for investigators. Companies like XYZ Research hire people to collect data. The pleasant weather makes fieldwork enjoyable.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $69,545
Los Angeles provides a diverse setting for investigators. Firms like ABC Investigations need people to gather data. The city's vast area offers many places to explore.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $66,650
Baltimore has a mix of urban and historic sites for investigators. Companies like XYZ Research hire people for fieldwork. The city's rich history adds interest to the job.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $64,132
San Jose offers a tech-focused environment for investigators. Firms like ABC Investigations need data collectors. The city's innovation makes the work dynamic.
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Orlando, FL
Average Salary: $61,515
Orlando provides a vibrant setting for investigators. Companies like XYZ Research hire people to gather data. The city's attractions make breaks between tasks fun.
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Charlotte, NC
Average Salary: $58,362
Charlotte offers a mix of business and leisure for investigators. Firms like ABC Investigations need data collectors. The city's growth offers many opportunities.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $56,679
Buffalo provides a mix of urban and natural settings for investigators. Companies like XYZ Research hire people for fieldwork. The city's charm adds to the job experience.
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Albany, NY
Average Salary: $53,941
Albany offers a historic and political setting for investigators. Companies like ABC Investigations need data collectors. The city's rich history adds depth to the work.
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Las Vegas, NV
Average Salary: $53,246
Las Vegas offers a lively and dynamic environment for investigators. Firms like XYZ Research hire people to gather data. The city's energy makes the job exciting.
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What are the best companies a Field Investigator can work for?

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GEICO
Average Salary: $84,151
GEICO offers exciting Field Investigator roles across various locations. They focus on insurance investigations, requiring keen attention to detail. GEICO operates nationwide, providing opportunities in many states.
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National General Insurance
Average Salary: $78,431
National General Insurance provides Field Investigator positions with a focus on fraud detection and prevention. They have offices in multiple states, offering a dynamic work environment.
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Veracity Research Co LLC
Average Salary: $63,000
Veracity Research Co LLC hires Field Investigators for investigative roles. They emphasize thorough research and data collection. The company operates in various locations, providing diverse opportunities.
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VRC Investigations
Average Salary: $61,150
VRC Investigations offers Field Investigator jobs with a focus on detailed investigations. They work in multiple regions, providing a chance to explore different areas.
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Command Investigations
Average Salary: $57,740
Command Investigations provides Field Investigator roles that involve complex investigations. They have offices in several states, offering a variety of locations to work in.
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Allied Universal Compliance and Investigations
Average Salary: $57,308
Allied Universal Compliance and Investigations offers Field Investigator positions with a focus on compliance and fraud detection. They operate in many locations, providing diverse opportunities.
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BECKER & COMPANY
Average Salary: $57,055
BECKER & COMPANY hires Field Investigators for investigative roles. They focus on detailed research and data collection. The company operates in various locations, offering a chance to explore different areas.
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CoventBridge Group
Average Salary: $53,544
CoventBridge Group offers Field Investigator jobs with a focus on investigative work. They have offices in multiple states, providing a dynamic work environment.
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Project Resources Group, Inc
Average Salary: $51,970
Project Resources Group, Inc. provides Field Investigator roles that involve detailed investigations. They operate in various locations, offering diverse opportunities.
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JNR Adjustment Company, Inc.
Average Salary: $47,609
JNR Adjustment Company, Inc. offers Field Investigator positions with a focus on insurance investigations. They have offices in multiple states, providing a chance to explore different areas.
How to earn more as a Field Investigator?
Field Investigators have the opportunity to earn more by focusing on key areas that enhance their skills and marketability. One way to increase earnings is by gaining specialized certifications. These certifications can validate expertise in specific areas such as fraud investigation, accident reconstruction, or surveillance. Employers often value these credentials and may offer higher pay for certified professionals.
Another factor is gaining experience in high-demand industries. Industries such as insurance, law enforcement, and private security often require field investigators and may offer higher wages. Building a strong portfolio of work in these sectors can lead to better job opportunities and higher pay. Networking with industry professionals and attending relevant conferences can also open doors to higher-paying positions. Additionally, taking on freelance or contract work can provide opportunities to earn more by working on multiple projects simultaneously. Finally, continuously improving investigative skills through training and education can make a Field Investigator more valuable to employers, leading to higher earning potential.
Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a Field Investigator:
- Obtain specialized certifications
- Gain experience in high-demand industries
- Network with industry professionals
- Take on freelance or contract work
- Continuously improve investigative skills



