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Public Safety · South Dakota

How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in South Dakota

Detectives and Criminal Investigators in South Dakota earn a median salary of $77,440/year, which is 17% below the national average. South Dakota has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $3,827/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$77K
Median salary in South Dakota
-17%
vs. national average
None
State income tax
230
Employed in South Dakota

What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in South Dakota

Gross annual salary$77,440
Est. monthly take-home (no state tax)$5,239/mo
Median 2BR rent (South Dakota)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home27% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$77,440/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,827/mo

Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in South Dakota

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain South Dakota licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in South Dakota

South Dakota employs 230 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Sioux Falls and Rapid City.

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in South Dakota

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Sioux Falls$106K$50.86/hr60
Rapid City$77K$37.23/hr70

Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in South Dakota

10th percentile (entry)
$60K
25th percentile
$66K
Median (50th)
$77K
75th percentile
$109K
90th percentile (senior)
$142K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a detectives and criminal investigators make in South Dakota?

The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in South Dakota is $77,440 per year ($37.23/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $59,540 to $142,190.

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

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

Can a detectives and criminal investigators afford to live in South Dakota?

At the median salary of $77,440, a detectives and criminal investigators in South Dakota would take home approximately $5,239/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27% 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 South Dakota?

The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in South Dakota are Sioux Falls ($105,790), Rapid City ($77,440). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does South Dakota have state income tax for detectives and criminal investigators?

No, South Dakota 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.