Skip to content
AffordMap
Public Safety · Arizona

How to Become a Private Detectives and Investigators in Arizona

Private Detectives and Investigators in Arizona earn a median salary of $64,960/year, which is 24% above the national average. Arizona has a state income tax of ~2.5%. After taxes and rent, a private detectives and investigators takes home approximately $2,960/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$65K
Median salary in Arizona
+24%
vs. national average
2.5%
State income tax
980
Employed in Arizona

What a private detectives and investigators can afford in Arizona

Gross annual salary$64,960
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.5% state tax)$4,372/mo
Median 2BR rent (Arizona)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home32.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$64,960/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$2,960/mo

Becoming a private detectives and investigators in Arizona

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Arizona licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Arizona

Arizona employs 980 private detectives and investigators. The highest concentrations are in Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler and Tucson.

Private Detectives and Investigators salary by metro area in Arizona

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler$75K$36.17/hr760
Tucson$45K$21.53/hr80

Private Detectives and Investigators salary range in Arizona

10th percentile (entry)
$39K
25th percentile
$45K
Median (50th)
$65K
75th percentile
$91K
90th percentile (senior)
$111K
View jobs for Private Detectives and Investigators
Currently hiring in Arizona
View →
More openings for Private Detectives and Investigators
Currently hiring in Arizona
View →
Build skills for your next move
Explore courses and certificates related to your role
View →
Full private detectives and investigators salary breakdown in Arizona
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in Arizona
After federal + 2.5% state tax
Calculate →
Compare Arizona cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Private Detectives and Investigators careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a private detectives and investigators make in Arizona?

The median private detectives and investigators salary in Arizona is $64,960 per year ($31.23/hr). This is 24% above the national median of $52,370. Salaries range from $38,580 to $110,850.

What are the requirements to become a private detectives and investigators in Arizona?

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

Can a private detectives and investigators afford to live in Arizona?

At the median salary of $64,960, a private detectives and investigators in Arizona would take home approximately $4,372/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 32.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for private detectives and investigators in Arizona?

The highest paying metro areas for private detectives and investigators in Arizona are Phoenix-Mesa-Chandler ($75,230), Tucson ($44,780). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Arizona have state income tax for private detectives and investigators?

Yes, Arizona has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.5%. On a $64,960 salary, this means roughly $1,624/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.