How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Florida
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Florida earn a median salary of $78,290/year, which is 16% below the national average. Florida has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $3,877/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in Florida
Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in Florida
Meet education requirements
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Florida. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many detectives and criminal investigators positions in Florida require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Florida licensure or certification
Florida may require specific licensing or professional certification for detectives and criminal investigatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Florida Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Florida
Florida employs 6,310 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach and Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in Florida
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach | $114K | $54.71/hr | 2,030 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater | $91K | $43.94/hr | 1,140 |
| Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent | $78K | $37.72/hr | 130 |
| Cape Coral-Fort Myers | $77K | $37.12/hr | 220 |
| Port St. Lucie | $76K | $36.5/hr | 100 |
| Punta Gorda | $76K | $36.39/hr | 40 |
| Jacksonville | $76K | $36.36/hr | 510 |
| Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville | $72K | $34.76/hr | 80 |
| Lakeland-Winter Haven | $69K | $33.33/hr | 70 |
| Crestview-Fort Walton Beach-Destin | $68K | $32.62/hr | 90 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford | $67K | $32.26/hr | 510 |
| Gainesville | $67K | $32.22/hr | 90 |
| Sebastian-Vero Beach-West Vero Corridor | $67K | $32.17/hr | 40 |
| Panama City-Panama City Beach | $65K | $31.32/hr | 90 |
| North Port-Bradenton-Sarasota | $62K | $30.03/hr | 100 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in Florida
Detectives and Criminal Investigators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a detectives and criminal investigators make in Florida?▼
The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in Florida is $78,290 per year ($37.64/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $51,290 to $160,620.
What are the requirements to become a detectives and criminal investigators in Florida?▼
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Florida typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Florida may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Florida licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a detectives and criminal investigators afford to live in Florida?▼
At the median salary of $78,290, a detectives and criminal investigators in Florida would take home approximately $5,289/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 26.7% 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 Florida?▼
The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in Florida are Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach ($113,800), Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater ($91,400), Pensacola-Ferry Pass-Brent ($78,460). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Florida have state income tax for detectives and criminal investigators?▼
No, Florida does not have a state income tax. This means detectives and criminal investigators keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.