Investigator Salaries

Investigators play a crucial role in uncovering facts and solving cases. They work in various fields, including law enforcement, insurance, and private investigation. Their work can be challenging, but it also comes with a rewarding salary. The average yearly salary for an investigator is around $65,459. This figure can vary based on experience and location.

The salary range for investigators can be quite broad. Some earn as little as $35,000 a year, while others make over $150,000. Here is a breakdown of the salary distribution:

• 12.08% earn $35,000 or less
• 29.98% earn between $35,000 and $45,725
• 18.49% earn between $45,725 and $56,450
• 13.68% earn between $56,450 and $67,176
• 7.31% earn between $67,176 and $77,901
• 4.34% earn between $77,901 and $88,626
• 3.60% earn between $88,626 and $99,351
• 1.96% earn between $99,351 and $110,077
• 1.34% earn between $110,077 and $120,802
• 1.08% earn between $120,802 and $131,527
• 1.13% earn $131,527 or more

1. Raleigh, NC
   Average Salary: $201,351
   In Raleigh, professionals in this field enjoy a vibrant job market with opportunities in both private and public sectors. Companies like IBM and Cisco Systems offer roles that require keen analytical skills and attention to detail.
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2. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $113,296
   Working in San Francisco offers a dynamic environment with tech giants like Google and Salesforce. The city's diverse economy provides a range of investigative opportunities, from cybersecurity to financial fraud.
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3. Stockton, CA
   Average Salary: $108,725
   Stockton provides a more intimate setting with a focus on local law enforcement and private security. The city's smaller size allows for close-knit professional networks and community engagement.
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4. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $98,544
   In Washington, DC, investigative roles often intersect with government and politics. Agencies like the FBI and CIA offer challenging and impactful career paths for those interested in national security.
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5. Chicago, IL
   Average Salary: $86,679
   Chicago's diverse job market includes opportunities in both private investigations and law enforcement. The city's rich history in organized crime investigations provides a unique backdrop for this career.
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6. Durham, NC
   Average Salary: $86,281
   Durham offers a blend of academic and corporate opportunities, with institutions like Duke University and companies such as IBM. The city's focus on research and development creates a niche for specialized investigative roles.
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7. Atlanta, GA
   Average Salary: $84,819
   Atlanta's growing economy provides a variety of investigative roles in both the public and private sectors. Companies like Coca-Cola and Delta Airlines offer diverse opportunities for professionals in this field.
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8. Charlotte, NC
   Average Salary: $84,080
   Charlotte's financial sector offers numerous investigative roles, particularly in banking and insurance. The city's strong economy and growing tech scene provide a robust job market for investigators.
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9. Jacksonville, FL
   Average Salary: $82,442
   Jacksonville provides a mix of opportunities in both the public and private sectors. The city's focus on logistics and transportation creates a demand for investigative roles in these industries.
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10. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $81,317
    Seattle's tech-driven economy offers many investigative roles, especially in cybersecurity and corporate investigations. Companies like Amazon and Microsoft provide a dynamic and innovative environment for professionals.
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1. Piper Companies
   Average Salary: $455,517
   Piper Companies offers exciting Investigator roles with a focus on financial investigations. They operate globally, with major offices in New York City, London, and Hong Kong.
   

   
   

2. Montefiore Medical
   Average Salary: $237,500
   Montefiore Medical provides Investigator positions that focus on healthcare fraud and compliance. They have locations in the Bronx and Westchester, New York.
   

   
   

3. PwC
   Average Salary: $199,944
   PwC offers Investigator roles that involve auditing and compliance. They have offices worldwide, including major hubs in New York, London, and Sydney.
   

   
   

4. SoFi
   Average Salary: $128,795
   SoFi provides Investigator positions that focus on financial technology and compliance. They operate nationally, with a main office in San Francisco, California.
   

   
   

5. Uber
   Average Salary: $126,125
   Uber offers Investigator roles that focus on safety and compliance. They have offices in many cities worldwide, including San Francisco, Singapore, and Berlin.
   

   
   

6. USAA
   Average Salary: $120,991
   USAA offers Investigator roles that focus on fraud detection and prevention. They operate nationally, with a main office in San Antonio, Texas.
   

   
   

7. CVS Health
   Average Salary: $120,323
   CVS Health provides Investigator roles that focus on pharmacy compliance and fraud. They have locations across the United States, with a main office in Woonsocket, Rhode Island.
   

   
   

8. TD Bank
   Average Salary: $118,453
   TD Bank offers Investigator roles that focus on financial fraud and compliance. They have offices in major cities across the United States and Canada.
   

   
   

9. Wells Fargo
   Average Salary: $116,389
   Wells Fargo offers Investigator roles that focus on financial fraud and compliance. They have locations across the United States, with a main office in San Francisco, California.
   

   
   

10. PayPal
    Average Salary: $107,850
    PayPal provides Investigator roles that focus on fraud detection and prevention. They operate globally, with major offices in San Jose, California, and London.
    

Investigators can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Gaining specialized skills and certifications can make an investigator more valuable. For example, becoming a certified private investigator (CPI) or obtaining a background in cybersecurity can open up higher-paying opportunities. Experience also plays a crucial role in earning potential. Those with more years in the field often command higher salaries due to their proven track record and expertise.

Networking and building a strong reputation can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay. Attending industry conferences, joining professional organizations, and maintaining a professional online presence can help investigators connect with potential employers and clients. Additionally, taking on challenging cases that require advanced skills can lead to higher compensation. Investigators who specialize in high-stakes cases, such as fraud or corporate espionage, often earn more than those who handle routine investigations. Finally, working for larger firms or government agencies can provide more stable and higher-paying positions compared to freelance work.

In summary, investigators can boost their earnings by:

• Gaining specialized skills and certifications
• Building experience and a strong reputation
• Networking and connecting with industry professionals
• Taking on challenging and high-stakes cases
• Working for larger firms or government agencies