How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in California
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in California earn a median salary of $122,140/year, which is 31% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $5,816/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in California
Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in California
Meet education requirements
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many detectives and criminal investigators positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for detectives and criminal investigatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 11,900 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $157K | $75.43/hr | 260 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $143K | $68.87/hr | 70 |
| Salinas | $130K | $62.44/hr | 40 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $129K | $62.2/hr | 40 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $128K | $61.53/hr | 3,070 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $126K | $60.76/hr | 1,430 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $125K | $60.24/hr | 690 |
| El Centro | $121K | $58.33/hr | 730 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $119K | $57.13/hr | 2,780 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $114K | $55.01/hr | 60 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $111K | $53.14/hr | 60 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $110K | $52.8/hr | 1,540 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $107K | $51.47/hr | 40 |
| Fresno | $105K | $50.47/hr | 390 |
| Vallejo | $104K | $50.11/hr | 50 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in California
Detectives and Criminal Investigators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a detectives and criminal investigators make in California?▼
The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in California is $122,140 per year ($58.72/hr). This is 31% above the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $79,350 to $165,230.
What are the requirements to become a detectives and criminal investigators in California?▼
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in California typically require High school diploma or equivalent. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a detectives and criminal investigators afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $122,140, a detectives and criminal investigators in California would take home approximately $7,228/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for detectives and criminal investigators in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($156,890), Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura ($143,250), Salinas ($129,880). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for detectives and criminal investigators?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $122,140 salary, this means roughly $7,497/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.