How to Become a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas earn a median salary of $89,860/year, which is 4% below the national average. Texas has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a detectives and criminal investigators takes home approximately $4,555/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.
What a detectives and criminal investigators can afford in Texas
Becoming a detectives and criminal investigators in Texas
Meet education requirements
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Texas. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many detectives and criminal investigators positions in Texas require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Texas licensure or certification
Texas may require specific licensing or professional certification for detectives and criminal investigatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Texas Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Texas
Texas employs 18,020 detectives and criminal investigators. The highest concentrations are in Brownsville-Harlingen and El Paso.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary by metro area in Texas
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $107K | $51.56/hr | 760 |
| El Paso | $107K | $51.56/hr | 1,760 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $104K | $50.16/hr | 1,660 |
| Laredo | $96K | $46.31/hr | 1,320 |
| San Angelo | $96K | $45.98/hr | 60 |
| Eagle Pass | $90K | $43.2/hr | 520 |
| Houston-Pasadena-The Woodlands | $86K | $41.56/hr | 1,830 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $85K | $40.86/hr | 1,850 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $83K | $39.86/hr | 1,600 |
| Corpus Christi | $82K | $39.37/hr | 200 |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos | $77K | $37.24/hr | 1,680 |
| College Station-Bryan | $75K | $36.29/hr | 60 |
| Waco | $75K | $36.19/hr | 100 |
| Sherman-Denison | $73K | $35.25/hr | 40 |
| Midland | $72K | $34.82/hr | 40 |
Detectives and Criminal Investigators salary range in Texas
Detectives and Criminal Investigators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a detectives and criminal investigators make in Texas?▼
The median detectives and criminal investigators salary in Texas is $89,860 per year ($43.2/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $93,580. Salaries range from $50,920 to $137,860.
What are the requirements to become a detectives and criminal investigators in Texas?▼
Detectives and Criminal Investigators positions in Texas typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Texas may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Texas licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a detectives and criminal investigators afford to live in Texas?▼
At the median salary of $89,860, a detectives and criminal investigators in Texas would take home approximately $5,967/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 23.7% 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 Texas?▼
The highest paying metro areas for detectives and criminal investigators in Texas are Brownsville-Harlingen ($107,240), El Paso ($107,240), McAllen-Edinburg-Mission ($104,330). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Texas have state income tax for detectives and criminal investigators?▼
No, Texas 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.