Position
Salary

How much does a Special Agent make?

The average salary for a Special Agent is $111,220 per year in the US.

A Special Agent works for the government to protect the nation. They investigate crimes and gather important information. This job is both challenging and rewarding. Special Agents earn a good salary for their hard work. The average yearly salary for a Special Agent is around $111,220. This means they make a decent amount of money each year.


Special Agents can earn different salaries based on their experience and rank. Here are some examples:

  • Entry-level Special Agents start at about $73,670 per year.
  • Agents with a few years of experience earn around $80,984 per year.
  • Senior Special Agents can make up to $110,238 per year.

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What are the highest paying cities for a Special Agent?

Special Agents can find some of the best pay in Washington, DC, where the average salary reaches $115,343. Boston, MA, and San Diego, CA, also offer strong salaries, with averages of $111,779 and $111,553, respectively. Cities like Sacramento, CA, and Los Angeles, CA, provide competitive pay, making them attractive options for job seekers.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Special Agent jobs, highlighting Washington, DC with the highest at $115,343 and San Francisco, CA with the lowest at $111,134.
  1. Washington, DC
    Average Salary: $115,343
    In Washington, DC, you can work in a hub of political and international activity. You will collaborate with key agencies to protect national security. The city offers a dynamic environment with many opportunities for professional growth.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Washington, DC


  2. Boston, MA
    Average Salary: $111,779
    Boston, MA, provides a rich history and a vibrant community. Working here, you can engage with both local and federal agencies. The city's academic institutions and research centers add to the diverse work experiences.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Boston, MA


  3. San Diego, CA
    Average Salary: $111,553
    San Diego, CA, offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and military presence. You will work closely with naval bases and border security. The city's mild climate makes it an attractive place to live and work.
    Find Special Agent jobs in San Diego, CA


  4. Sacramento, CA
    Average Salary: $111,524
    Sacramento, CA, is the heart of California's government. Working here, you will interact with state agencies and law enforcement. The city's central location offers easy access to various regions and resources.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Sacramento, CA


  5. Cincinnati, OH
    Average Salary: $111,463
    Cincinnati, OH, provides a balanced mix of urban and suburban living. You will work with local and federal agencies to ensure safety. The city's strong community and affordable living make it an appealing place to work.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Cincinnati, OH


  6. Los Angeles, CA
    Average Salary: $111,405
    Los Angeles, CA, offers a diverse and dynamic environment. You will work with a variety of agencies to tackle complex issues. The city's entertainment industry and cultural diversity add to the unique work experiences.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Los Angeles, CA


  7. Miami, FL
    Average Salary: $111,401
    Miami, FL, provides a vibrant and multicultural atmosphere. You will work with federal agencies to address security concerns. The city's warm climate and diverse population create a lively work environment.
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  8. Jacksonville, FL
    Average Salary: $111,370
    Jacksonville, FL, offers a growing job market with many opportunities. You will collaborate with local and federal agencies to ensure safety. The city's expanding infrastructure and business sector add to the professional growth potential.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Jacksonville, FL


  9. Dallas, TX
    Average Salary: $111,149
    Dallas, TX, is a major economic center with a strong job market. You will work with various agencies to protect the region. The city's business-friendly environment and diverse community offer many professional opportunities.
    Find Special Agent jobs in Dallas, TX


  10. San Francisco, CA
    Average Salary: $111,134
    San Francisco, CA, offers a tech-driven and innovative environment. You will work with federal agencies to address cybersecurity and other modern issues. The city's vibrant culture and diverse workforce create a unique work experience.
    Find Special Agent jobs in San Francisco, CA

What are the best companies a Special Agent can work for?

Job seekers looking for Special Agent roles can find top-paying opportunities with the United States Capitol Police, offering an average salary of $128,504. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) also provides a competitive salary of $111,874. BNSF Railway offers a solid average salary of $95,768 for those interested in this career path. Other notable employers include Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC, the State of New Mexico, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau, each providing attractive salaries for Special Agent positions. The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General and the State of South Carolina also offer good compensation packages.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Special Agent jobs, highlighting United States Capitol Police with the highest at $128,504 and State of South Carolina with the lowest at $65,690.
  1. United States Capitol Police
    Average Salary: $128,504
    The United States Capitol Police offers rewarding Special Agent jobs. They protect the Capitol complex and its visitors. This role involves law enforcement and security. They operate in Washington, D.C.


  2. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
    Average Salary: $111,874
    The FBI provides exciting Special Agent jobs. Agents work on national security and criminal investigations. They operate across the United States and in international locations.


  3. BNSF Railway
    Average Salary: $95,768
    BNSF Railway offers Special Agent jobs focused on security and safety. They protect railway assets and personnel. This role involves patrolling and investigations. They operate across the United States.


  4. Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC
    Average Salary: $86,019
    Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC provides Special Agent jobs in security and compliance. They work to protect the company's assets and ensure regulatory compliance. They operate in various locations across the United States.


  5. State of New Mexico
    Average Salary: $79,885
    The State of New Mexico offers Special Agent jobs in law enforcement and public safety. They work to protect the state and its citizens. They operate in various locations across New Mexico.


  6. National Insurance Crime Bureau
    Average Salary: $68,980
    The National Insurance Crime Bureau provides Special Agent jobs in fraud investigation. They work to combat insurance fraud and protect consumers. They operate across the United States.


  7. Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General
    Average Salary: $68,829
    The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General offers Special Agent jobs in law enforcement. They work on criminal investigations and public safety. They operate across the state of Pennsylvania.


  8. State of South Carolina
    Average Salary: $65,690
    The State of South Carolina provides Special Agent jobs in law enforcement. They work to protect the state and its citizens. They operate in various locations across South Carolina.

How to earn more as a Special Agent?

A Special Agent can increase their earnings through various avenues. One key factor is gaining experience. As agents take on more complex cases, they often receive higher pay. Another factor is education. Special Agents with advanced degrees or specialized training can command higher salaries. Networking also plays a role. Building strong relationships with colleagues and supervisors can lead to promotions and salary increases. Continuing education and certifications can further boost earnings. Finally, moving to a higher-paying agency or location can also increase income.

Special Agents can also earn more through performance bonuses. Agencies often reward agents for outstanding work. This can include solving difficult cases or exceeding performance goals. Special Agents can also earn more by taking on additional responsibilities. This might include leading a team or taking on a supervisory role. Another way to earn more is through overtime. Special Agents who work extra hours can earn additional pay. Finally, some agencies offer retention bonuses to keep top talent. These bonuses can significantly increase an agent's earnings.

Here are some key factors to consider:

  1. Gain experience
  2. Pursue education
  3. Network effectively
  4. Earn performance bonuses
  5. Take on additional responsibilities

Currently 562 Special Agent job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Special Agent in the US?

Learn what a Special Agent does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Special Agent today.
Position
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Special Agent
562 Job Openings