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How much does a detective make in California?

How Much Does a Detective Make in California?

California is home to some of the busiest and most prestigious detective agencies in the world. From Hollywood to Silicon Valley, the Golden State is filled with crime and mystery that requires the expertise of skilled detectives. If you’re considering a career as a detective in California, you’re likely wondering how much you can expect to earn. In this article, we’ll explore the salary ranges for detectives in California, including median salaries, average salaries, and more.

Median Salaries for Detectives in California

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for detectives in California is $83,440. This figure is significantly higher than the national median salary of $61,920. As you can see, detectives in California are among the highest-paid in the country.

Average Salaries for Detectives in California

While the median salary provides a general idea of what detectives in California can expect to earn, it’s essential to look at average salaries as well. According to indeed.com, the average salary for a detective in California is $92,191. This figure takes into account the salaries of detectives working for law enforcement agencies, private investigation firms, and government agencies.

Salaries by City

Salaries for detectives in California can vary significantly depending on the city and region. Here are some average salaries for detectives in major cities in California:

CityAverage Salary
Los Angeles$93,500
San Diego$85,000
San Jose$89,000
San Francisco$95,000
Sacramento$78,000

Salaries by Agency

Salaries for detectives in California also vary depending on the agency they work for. Here are some average salaries for detectives working for different agencies:

AgencyAverage Salary
California Highway Patrol$93,000
Los Angeles Police Department$95,000
San Diego Police Department$85,000
California Department of Justice$83,000
Private Investigation Firm$60,000 – $100,000

Benefits and Bonuses

In addition to their salaries, detectives in California may also receive a range of benefits and bonuses. These can include:

  • Health insurance: Many law enforcement agencies and private investigation firms offer comprehensive health insurance plans to their employees.
  • Retirement plans: Detectives in California may be eligible for a range of retirement plans, including the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (PERS) and the Social Security Administration (SSA).
  • Overtime pay: Detectives may be eligible for overtime pay, which can significantly increase their annual salaries.
  • Bonuses: Some agencies and private investigation firms offer bonuses to their detectives, which can be tied to performance or other factors.

Requirements to Become a Detective in California

To become a detective in California, you’ll typically need to meet the following requirements:

  • Education: A bachelor’s degree in a field such as criminal justice, forensic science, or a related field.
  • Experience: At least 2-5 years of experience as a police officer or in a related field.
  • Training: Completion of a detective training program, which may be provided by the agency or a private training organization.
  • Certification: Certification as a peace officer by the California Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST).

Conclusion

As you can see, detectives in California are among the highest-paid in the country. With a median annual salary of $83,440 and average salaries ranging from $78,000 to $95,000, detectives in California have the potential to earn a good income. However, it’s essential to remember that salaries can vary significantly depending on the city, agency, and level of experience. By considering these factors, you can get a better sense of what you can expect to earn as a detective in California.

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