How much does a Special Agent make?
A Special Agent works for the government to protect the country and its people. They investigate crimes and gather important information. This job is very important and comes with a good salary. The average yearly salary for a Special Agent is about $111,798. This means they earn a lot of money each year.
Special Agents earn different amounts based on their experience and how long they have worked. The starting salary is around $73,080. As they gain more experience, they can earn up to $113,895 a year. This shows that with time, Special Agents can make even more money. Their job is not just about the salary, but also about making the country safer.
What are the highest paying cities for a Special Agent?

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Washington, DC
Average Salary: $115,737
In Washington, DC, you can expect to work in a dynamic environment with many key government agencies. The city offers a wealth of opportunities to make a significant impact. Agencies like the FBI and CIA are prominent employers.
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Boston, MA
Average Salary: $111,659
Boston provides a rich history and a vibrant community for those in this role. The city's strong educational institutions and tech companies create a unique work environment. You will find many opportunities to collaborate with other professionals.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $111,429
San Diego offers a beautiful coastal setting with a strong focus on national defense. The city is home to several military bases and defense contractors. Working here means being part of a community that values security and service.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $111,404
Sacramento serves as the state capital, offering a mix of government and private sector opportunities. The city's central location makes it a hub for various investigative activities. You will find a supportive community with many resources.
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Cincinnati, OH
Average Salary: $111,332
Cincinnati provides a balanced lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The city has a mix of industries, including finance and healthcare, offering diverse investigative opportunities. Working here means being part of a city that values both work and leisure.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $111,283
Los Angeles offers a diverse and dynamic environment with many opportunities in entertainment and technology. The city's large population and varied industries make it a rich field for investigation. You will find a vibrant community with many professional connections.
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Miami, FL
Average Salary: $111,247
Miami provides a tropical climate with a diverse population and many international connections. The city's strategic location makes it a key area for border security and immigration issues. Working here means being part of a fast-paced and multicultural environment.
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Jacksonville, FL
Average Salary: $111,217
Jacksonville offers a growing economy with a mix of industries, including finance and logistics. The city's strategic location along the coast makes it important for maritime security. You will find a supportive community with many opportunities for professional growth.
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Dallas, TX
Average Salary: $111,013
Dallas provides a strong business environment with many opportunities in finance and technology. The city's central location makes it a key hub for various investigative activities. Working here means being part of a dynamic and growing community.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $110,998
San Francisco offers a unique blend of technology and finance with a vibrant cultural scene. The city's innovative companies and startups create a challenging work environment. You will find a community that values creativity and forward-thinking.
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What are the best companies a Special Agent can work for?

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United States Capitol Police
Average Salary: $128,944
The United States Capitol Police offers rewarding Special Agent jobs. They protect the Capitol complex and its occupants. This role involves working in Washington, D.C., and other locations as needed.
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Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Average Salary: $112,647
The FBI offers exciting Special Agent jobs. Agents work on national security and criminal investigations. They operate across the United States and in international locations.
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BNSF Railway
Average Salary: $95,287
BNSF Railway provides Special Agent jobs with a focus on security. They protect railway assets and personnel. This role includes work in various locations across the United States.
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Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC
Average Salary: $86,019
Genesis Biotechnology Group LLC offers Special Agent jobs in the biotech industry. They focus on protecting intellectual property. This role is based in California and other biotech hubs.
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State of Illinois
Average Salary: $84,134
The State of Illinois offers Special Agent jobs in law enforcement. They work on state-level investigations and security. This role is based in Illinois with opportunities to work in various cities.
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State of New Mexico
Average Salary: $80,969
The State of New Mexico offers Special Agent jobs focused on state security. They work on investigations and law enforcement. This role is based in New Mexico with opportunities in multiple cities.
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State of Arizona
Average Salary: $75,140
The State of Arizona offers Special Agent jobs in state security. They focus on investigations and law enforcement. This role is based in Arizona with opportunities in various locations.
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Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General
Average Salary: $69,300
The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General offers Special Agent jobs in state law enforcement. They work on criminal investigations and security. This role is based in Pennsylvania.
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National Insurance Crime Bureau
Average Salary: $69,132
The National Insurance Crime Bureau offers Special Agent jobs in fraud investigations. They work to combat insurance fraud. This role is based in Illinois with opportunities to work in various locations.
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State of South Carolina
Average Salary: $65,951
The State of South Carolina offers Special Agent jobs in state law enforcement. They focus on criminal investigations and security. This role is based in South Carolina with opportunities in various cities.
How to earn more as a Special Agent?
A career as a Special Agent offers many opportunities for growth and increased earnings. Special Agents can earn more by taking certain steps to advance their careers. These steps can lead to higher salaries and more responsibilities. Understanding these factors can help job seekers aim for higher earnings in this field.
Here are some key factors that can help Special Agents earn more:
- Experience: Gaining more experience can lead to higher pay. Special Agents often start at a lower salary and increase their earnings as they gain more experience.
- Education: Higher education can lead to higher pay. Special Agents with advanced degrees may earn more than those with only a bachelor's degree.
- Specializations: Specializing in areas like cybercrime or counterintelligence can lead to higher pay. Special Agents with unique skills often earn more.
- Promotions: Moving up the ranks can lead to higher pay. Special Agents who get promoted to supervisory roles often earn more.
- Location: Working in certain locations can lead to higher pay. Special Agents in major cities or high-cost areas may earn more.