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Public Safety · Missouri

How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Missouri

Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Missouri earn a median salary of $78,670/year, which is 16% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~3.8%. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $3,652/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$79K
Median salary in Missouri
-16%
vs. national average
3.8%
State income tax
1,440
Employed in Missouri

What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in Missouri

Gross annual salary$78,670
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 3.8% state tax)$5,064/mo
Median 2BR rent (Missouri)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27.9% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$78,670/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,652/mo

Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in Missouri

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Missouri licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Missouri

Missouri employs 1,440 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Kansas City and St. Louis.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in Missouri

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Kansas City$92K$44.05/hr820
St. Louis$86K$41.44/hr600
Springfield$65K$31.1/hr130
Columbia$62K$29.76/hr30
Jefferson City$55K$26.41/hr50
Joplin$50K$23.93/hr40

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in Missouri

10th percentile (entry)
$49K
25th percentile
$58K
Median (50th)
$79K
75th percentile
$97K
90th percentile (senior)
$153K
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Full detectives and criminal investigators salary breakdown in Missouri
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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 Missouri?

The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in Missouri is $78,670 per year ($37.82/hr). This is 16% below the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $48,690 to $153,150.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $78,670, a detectives and criminal investigators in Missouri would take home approximately $5,064/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.9% 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 Missouri?

The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in Missouri are Kansas City ($91,620), St. Louis ($86,200), Springfield ($64,680). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.8%. On a $78,670 salary, this means roughly $2,963/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.