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Public Safety · Arkansas

How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Arkansas

Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Arkansas earn a median salary of $53,460/year, which is 43% below the national average. Arkansas has a state income tax of ~3.6%. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $2,178/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$53K
Median salary in Arkansas
-43%
vs. national average
3.6%
State income tax
560
Employed in Arkansas

What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in Arkansas

Gross annual salary$53,460
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.6% state tax)$3,590/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arkansas)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home39.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$53,460/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,178/mo

Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in Arkansas

1

Meet education requirements

Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Arkansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Arkansas. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many detectives and criminal investigators positions in Arkansas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Arkansas licensure or certification

Arkansas may require specific licensing or professional certification for detectives and criminal investigatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Arkansas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Arkansas

Arkansas employs 560 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers and Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in Arkansas

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers$63K$30.3/hr90
Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway$57K$27.3/hr210

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in Arkansas

10th percentile (entry)
$40K
25th percentile
$46K
Median (50th)
$53K
75th percentile
$67K
90th percentile (senior)
$142K
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Full detectives and criminal investigators salary breakdown in Arkansas
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Detectives and Criminal Investigators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a detectives and criminal investigators make in Arkansas?

The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in Arkansas is $53,460 per year ($25.7/hr). This is 43% below the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $40,360 to $142,190.

What are the requirements to become a detectives and criminal investigators in Arkansas?

Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Arkansas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Arkansas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Arkansas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a detectives and criminal investigators afford to live in Arkansas?

At the median salary of $53,460, a detectives and criminal investigators in Arkansas would take home approximately $3,590/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 39.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for detectives and criminal investigators in Arkansas?

The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in Arkansas are Fayetteville-Springdale-Rogers ($63,030), Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway ($56,780). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arkansas have state income tax for detectives and criminal investigators?

Yes, Arkansas has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.6%. On a $53,460 salary, this means roughly $1,917/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.