How much does a Surveillance Investigator make?
A Surveillance Investigator can expect to make a solid yearly salary. The average yearly salary for this role stands at $44,433. This means that people in this job often earn a good income. The salary range shows that most Surveillance Investigators earn between $34,350 and $65,000 each year.
Factors affecting salary can include experience, location, and the employer. Investigators with more experience often earn more. Jobs in big cities usually pay more than those in smaller towns. Different employers may also offer different pay scales based on their budget and industry standards.
What are the highest paying cities for a Surveillance Investigator?

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Memphis, TN
Average Salary: $55,261
In Memphis, working as an investigator offers a chance to support local businesses and security firms. Many professionals find opportunities in the area's growing tech sector, enhancing skills in monitoring and data analysis.
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Lubbock, TX
Average Salary: $54,881
Lubbock provides a thriving environment for investigators, with roles often involving airport security and corporate investigations. The city's low cost of living and high demand for security experts make it an attractive location.
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Hartford, CT
Average Salary: $54,504
Hartford's rich history and diverse economy create a dynamic landscape for investigators. Opportunities abound in financial services, healthcare, and insurance, where attention to detail is crucial.
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Topeka, KS
Average Salary: $54,045
Topeka offers a steady job market for investigators, with roles focusing on government security and insurance investigations. The city's smaller size fosters a close-knit professional community.
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Buffalo, NY
Average Salary: $52,639
Buffalo's unique mix of urban and rural settings provides diverse opportunities for investigators. From local government to private sector roles, the city supports a range of investigative needs.
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Clarksville, TN
Average Salary: $52,059
Clarksville's growing population and military presence create a steady demand for investigators. Opportunities often involve background checks and security assessments for military installations and local businesses.
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Knoxville, TN
Average Salary: $52,013
Knoxville, with its vibrant university presence, offers plenty of opportunities for investigators. Roles often involve campus security and fraud investigations, allowing professionals to develop specialized skills.
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Modesto, CA
Average Salary: $51,973
Modesto's agricultural roots and expanding tech industry present unique investigative opportunities. Professionals in the area often work in areas like farm security and corporate fraud prevention.
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Corpus Christi, TX
Average Salary: $51,537
Corpus Christi's strong maritime industry creates a niche for investigators specializing in shipping and logistics security. The city's warm climate and lower cost of living add to the appeal.
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Des Moines, IA
Average Salary: $51,134
Des Moines offers a stable job market for investigators, with a focus on insurance and financial investigations. The city's strong economy and community-oriented environment make it a great place to work.
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What are the best companies a Surveillance Investigator can work for?

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State of Tennessee
Average Salary: $85,102
The State of Tennessee offers rewarding careers in surveillance investigation. Positions are available in various locations across Tennessee, providing diverse opportunities to protect public safety. Roles involve gathering and analyzing intelligence, conducting investigations, and ensuring compliance with state laws.
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Alpine Intel
Average Salary: $60,174
Alpine Intel specializes in investigative services with a focus on surveillance and intelligence. The company operates across the United States, offering jobs in cities like Dallas, Austin, and San Antonio. Surveillance Investigators work on high-profile cases, requiring sharp analytical skills and attention to detail.
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The Robison Group
Average Salary: $53,862
The Robison Group provides comprehensive investigative services with a strong emphasis on surveillance. They are based in California, with offices in Los Angeles and San Francisco. Surveillance Investigators at this company engage in corporate investigations, background checks, and fraud detection.
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Delta Group
Average Salary: $53,597
Delta Group is known for its extensive investigative work, including surveillance operations. They have offices in Atlanta, New York, and Chicago. Their investigators focus on gathering evidence for legal proceedings, insurance claims, and corporate security.
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Metro One LPSG
Average Salary: $53,545
Metro One LPSG offers a range of investigative services with a focus on surveillance. They operate in major cities across the U.S., including Miami, Los Angeles, and New York. Surveillance Investigators at this firm work on cases involving fraud, theft, and security breaches.
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VRC Investigations
Average Salary: $53,073
VRC Investigations provides specialized surveillance services. They are located in Denver, Colorado, and serve clients nationwide. Their investigators are skilled in gathering and analyzing data for legal, corporate, and personal security cases.
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CoventBridge Group
Average Salary: $52,891
CoventBridge Group is a leading provider of investigative services, including surveillance. They operate in major cities across the U.S., such as Washington, D.C., and Dallas. Their surveillance investigators work on complex cases requiring detailed analysis and reporting.
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Lemieux & Associates
Average Salary: $51,198
Lemieux & Associates offers investigative services with a focus on surveillance. They have offices in Houston, Texas, and serve clients across the country. Surveillance Investigators at this firm handle a variety of cases, from fraud investigations to background checks.
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Texas Health and Human Services Commission
Average Salary: $50,376
The Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides essential investigative services, including surveillance. They operate throughout Texas, offering jobs in cities like Austin and Houston. Surveillance Investigators work to protect vulnerable populations and ensure compliance with state regulations.
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Meridian Investigative Group, Inc
Average Salary: $50,313
Meridian Investigative Group, Inc. offers investigative services with a focus on surveillance. They operate in major cities across the U.S., including Chicago and Miami. Their investigators work on cases involving fraud, theft, and security breaches, ensuring their clients receive accurate and timely information.
How to earn more as a Surveillance Investigator?
Becoming a Surveillance Investigator can lead to rewarding work, but earning more in this field requires certain strategies. To boost your income, consider these key factors that can enhance your skills and market value.
First, gaining specialized certifications can make you more competitive. Certifications in areas like video analysis or legal aspects of surveillance can distinguish you from others. Next, expanding your knowledge of surveillance technology helps keep your skills up-to-date. Keeping current with new tools and techniques shows employers you are dedicated. Building a strong network within the industry opens doors to new opportunities and partnerships. Attending conferences and joining professional groups can be very beneficial. Additionally, taking on roles with greater responsibility can lead to higher pay. Seeking promotions or leading projects demonstrates your capability. Lastly, focusing on continuous learning and professional development ensures long-term growth and higher earnings.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Obtain specialized certifications.
- Stay updated with the latest surveillance technology.
- Build a strong professional network.
- Seek roles with greater responsibility.
- Focus on continuous learning and professional development.



