Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary in Los Angeles, CA

In Los Angeles, CA, detectives and criminal investigators earn a median annual salary of $127,980, which is significantly higher than the national median of $93,580 for this occupation. This local salary is also notably above the area's median household income of $93,525, indicating that individuals in this profession typically earn more than the average household in their community. The comparison underscores the specialized skills and critical nature of work required in law enforcement roles focused on investigation and crime-solving.

Entry-level detectives and criminal investigators start at a lower wage compared to their more experienced counterparts. For example, those earning near the 10th percentile make approximately $82,250 annually, while seasoned professionals can earn up to or beyond the 90th percentile with salaries reaching $175,340 per year. The disparity in earnings is driven by factors such as experience, education level, skill set, and successful case handling, which all contribute to an investigator's value within law enforcement agencies. Additional elements like overtime pay, performance bonuses, and specialized assignments also play a role in increasing the overall compensation for those further along in their careers.