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Public Safety · Maryland

How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Maryland

Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Maryland earn a median salary of $125,630/year, which is 34% above the national average. Maryland has a state income tax of ~4.7%. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $6,152/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$126K
Median salary in Maryland
+34%
vs. national average
4.7%
State income tax
960
Employed in Maryland

What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in Maryland

Gross annual salary$125,630
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.7% state tax)$7,564/mo
Median 2BR rent (Maryland)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home18.7% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$125,630/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,152/mo

Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in Maryland

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Maryland licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Maryland

Maryland employs 960 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Hagerstown-Martinsburg and Baltimore-Columbia-Towson.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in Maryland

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Hagerstown-Martinsburg$157K$75.61/hr40
Baltimore-Columbia-Towson$126K$60.4/hr490

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in Maryland

10th percentile (entry)
$70K
25th percentile
$88K
Median (50th)
$126K
75th percentile
$162K
90th percentile (senior)
$187K
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Full detectives and criminal investigators salary breakdown in Maryland
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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 Maryland?

The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in Maryland is $125,630 per year ($60.4/hr). This is 34% above the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $69,800 to $186,760.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $125,630, a detectives and criminal investigators in Maryland would take home approximately $7,564/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.7% 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 Maryland?

The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in Maryland are Hagerstown-Martinsburg ($157,270), Baltimore-Columbia-Towson ($125,630). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Maryland has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.7%. On a $125,630 salary, this means roughly $5,852/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.