Average Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary in Texas
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas earn an impressive average annual salary of $91,250, significantly surpassing the national average of $85,370. This elevated compensation is often driven by the state's robust law enforcement needs and the specialized skills required for these critical roles. The unique demands and responsibilities inherent in investigative work within Texas contribute to this favorable salary landscape.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $91,250 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.4% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $137,860.
- Outlook: The job market for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas appears robust, with a substantial local workforce of 18,020 individuals. The location quotient of 1.81 indicates a concentration of these professionals nearly double the national average, suggesting strong and consistent demand for their expertise within the state. This high concentration points to a mature and active job market where opportunities are likely to be plentiful.
Salary Overview
The average Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas earns+6.9%above the national average.
$43.9
$1,755
$7,604
Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing crime rates, evolving investigative techniques, and the demand for experienced professionals typically drive upward salary adjustments in this field, ensuring that compensation keeps pace with the evolving landscape of law enforcement.
Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary Distribution in Texas
Career progression for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas is clearly reflected in salary differentials. Entry-level positions typically start at the lower end of the pay scale, while seasoned professionals with extensive experience and specialized skills command significantly higher salaries. The widening gap between the 25th and 75th percentiles of earnings serves as a strong indicator of the substantial salary increases associated with advancing through the ranks and accumulating expertise.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cadet / RecruitAcademy training and probationary period. | 10% (Entry) | $50,920 | $24.5 |
| OfficerPatrol duties, handling standard calls. | 25% (Junior) | $68,438 | $32.9 |
| Senior OfficerField training officer, specialized unit. | 50% (Median) | $89,860 | $43.2 |
| Sergeant / Lt.Shift supervisor, squad leader. | 75% (Senior) | $114,063 | $54.8 |
| Captain / ChiefDepartment command and administration. | 90% (Expert) | $137,860 | $66.3 |
Detailed Detectives and Criminal Investigators Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$91,250
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$98,118
Adjusted for COL (93)
The average annual salary of $91,250 for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas offers considerable purchasing power, especially when considering the state's cost of living index of 93. This index is below the national average of 100, meaning that everyday expenses such as housing, utilities, and transportation are generally more affordable. Consequently, the nominal salary translates into a higher real income, allowing professionals to enjoy a better standard of living.
Job Market Context
18,020
Total Jobs
1.302
Per 1K Jobs
1.81
Location Quotient
Texas has 1.8x the national concentration of Detectives and Criminal Investigators jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a location quotient of 1.81, Texas exhibits a significantly higher concentration of Detectives and Criminal Investigators compared to the national average. This suggests a highly specialized and potentially competitive market for these roles, where employers actively seek out talent with specific investigative skills. The abundance of professionals in this field indicates a well-established infrastructure and a strong demand for their services within the state's law enforcement agencies.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Detectives and Criminal Investigators
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Killeen-Temple, TX Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary | $70,930↓ 22% | 10 mi |
| Waco, TX Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary | $81,950↓ 10% | 41 mi |
| Austin-Round Rock-San Marcos, TX Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary | $80,700↓ 12% | 53 mi |
| College Station-Bryan, TX Detectives and Criminal Investigators Salary | $67,310↓ 26% | 82 mi |
Comparing salaries near Texas
Hiring Detectives and Criminal Investigatorss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Detectives and Criminal Investigators make in Texas?
The median annual salary for a Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas is $91,250. This typically ranges from $50,920 for entry-level positions to $137,860 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Texas is 6.9% higher than the national median of $85,370.
Is Texas a lucrative place for Detectives and Criminal Investigatorss?
Yes, Texas is a lucrative state for Detectives and Criminal Investigators.The average salary of $91,250 significantly exceeds the national average, and the cost of living is below the national benchmark, enhancing purchasing power.
Is Texas a good place to live for Detectives and Criminal Investigators?
With a Cost of Living Index of 93 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near Texas?
Some top paying nearby cities include Killeen-Temple, TX ($70,930) and Waco, TX.
How does the Texas salary compare to the national average?
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas earn an average of $91,250 annually, which is higher than the national average of $85,370.
What is the concentration of Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas?
Texas has a location quotient of 1.81 for this profession, meaning the concentration of these jobs is 81% higher than the national average.
How does the cost of living in Texas affect salary perception?
With a cost of living index of 93 (100 being the national average), the $91,250 salary in Texas offers greater purchasing power than the same nominal salary in a higher cost-of-living area.
What is the total number of Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Texas?
There are approximately 18,020 Detectives and Criminal Investigators employed in Texas.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 18,020 employees in the Texas area with a job density of 1.302 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Detectives and Criminal Investigators • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Texas