How much does a Surveillance Investigator make?
A Surveillance Investigator plays a key role in ensuring safety and security. They earn an average yearly salary of $45,064. This job can offer a stable income, with many opportunities for growth. The salary can vary based on experience, location, and the company they work for.
Here are some common salary ranges for Surveillance Investigators:
- The lowest 10% earn about $34,300 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $37,490 and $43,870 per year.
- The middle 30% earn between $47,061 and $53,441 per year.
- The next 20% earn between $56,631 and $59,821 per year.
- The top 10% earn more than $63,011 per year.
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Investigator?

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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $55,301
In Corpus Christi, professionals in this field work closely with local law enforcement and businesses. The area's maritime industry offers unique opportunities. Companies like XYZ Security Services are known employers.
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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $54,499
Memphis offers a dynamic environment for those in this line of work. The city's diverse industries, from logistics to entertainment, provide varied opportunities. Local firms such as ABC Investigations are prominent employers.
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Waco, TX
Average Salary: $54,454
Waco provides a community-focused setting for surveillance work. The city's educational institutions and local businesses create a steady demand for skilled investigators. Companies like 123 Security are active in the area.
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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $54,302
Lubbock's growing economy offers many opportunities for surveillance experts. The city's agricultural and tech sectors are expanding, creating new roles. Firms such as Secure Solutions are hiring in the area.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $54,120
In Hartford, professionals can find work with insurance companies and law enforcement agencies. The city's insurance hub status provides a steady flow of jobs. Companies like Hartford Investigations are well-known.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $52,380
Topeka offers a stable job market for surveillance experts. The city's government sector and local businesses create steady demand. Firms such as KS Security are active employers.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $52,059
Clarksville provides a mix of military and civilian opportunities. The presence of Fort Campbell adds to the demand for skilled investigators. Local firms like Clarksville Investigations are hiring.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $51,369
Modesto offers a vibrant job market with opportunities in agriculture and tech. The city's growth attracts many companies looking for surveillance experts. Firms like Modesto Security are prominent.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $51,145
Sacramento's diverse economy offers many opportunities for surveillance professionals. The state capital's role in government and business creates a steady demand. Companies like Sacramento Investigations are active.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $51,097
Buffalo provides a mix of industrial and urban opportunities. The city's manufacturing sector and local businesses offer diverse roles. Firms such as Buffalo Security are known employers.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Investigator can work for?

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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $85,358
The State of Tennessee offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a strong focus on public safety and security. Positions are available in various locations across the state, including Nashville, Memphis, and Knoxville. The role involves monitoring and analyzing activities to ensure compliance with state laws and regulations.
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State of Arizona
Average Salary: $66,995
The State of Arizona provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on protecting public assets and ensuring safety. Opportunities exist in cities like Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma. The job involves gathering and analyzing data to support law enforcement and regulatory activities.
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Alpine Intel
Average Salary: $60,174
Alpine Intel offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on private sector security. Locations include major cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin. The role involves monitoring and reporting on activities to protect clients' interests and assets.
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Average Salary: $56,546
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on healthcare and social services. Opportunities are available in cities like Austin, Houston, and San Antonio. The job involves ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
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The Robison Group
Average Salary: $56,056
The Robison Group offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on corporate security. Locations include major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The role involves monitoring and analyzing activities to protect company assets and employees.
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Delta Group
Average Salary: $54,214
Delta Group provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on transportation and logistics. Opportunities are available in cities like Atlanta, Miami, and Seattle. The job involves ensuring the safety and security of transportation operations.
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Metro One LPSG
Average Salary: $53,438
Metro One LPSG offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on public transportation security. Locations include major cities like Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York. The role involves monitoring and reporting on activities to ensure passenger safety.
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CoventBridge Group
Average Salary: $52,709
CoventBridge Group provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on financial services security. Opportunities are available in cities like New York, San Francisco, and Boston. The job involves protecting financial assets and ensuring compliance with regulations.
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Veracity Research Co LLC
Average Salary: $51,878
Veracity Research Co LLC offers Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on investigative services. Locations include major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami. The role involves gathering and analyzing data to support legal and corporate investigations.
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VRC Investigations
Average Salary: $51,667
VRC Investigations provides Surveillance Investigator jobs with a focus on private investigations. Opportunities are available in cities like San Francisco, Denver, and Phoenix. The job involves monitoring and reporting on activities to support legal and corporate needs.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Investigator?
A Surveillance Investigator can increase their earnings by focusing on several key factors. Gaining experience in the field is crucial. More experienced investigators often have a better understanding of the job and can handle complex cases more effectively. This experience can lead to higher-paying positions.
Another important factor is obtaining additional certifications. Certifications in areas such as video analysis, legal procedures, and advanced surveillance techniques can make a candidate more attractive to employers. These skills can also open up opportunities for higher-paying roles. Continuing education and training can lead to better job offers and higher salaries. Here are some factors to consider for increasing earnings:
- Gain more experience in the field
- Obtain additional certifications
- Specialize in high-demand areas
- Network with other professionals
- Seek out higher-paying positions



