Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,910 | $93,580 | +10.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #13 of 51 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 2,030 jobs | 110,790 jobs | 1.8% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,460 | $32.44 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,300 | $39.57 |
| Median | $102,910 | $49.48 |
| 75th Percentile | $116,490 | $56.01 |
| 90th Percentile | $157,100 | $75.53 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $102,910 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +30.2%, detectives and criminal investigators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can detectives and criminal investigators increase their salary in Colorado?
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Colorado can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: Colorado currently ranks #13 out of 51 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $119,120 |
| Federal Executive Branch (OEWS Designation) | $119,120 |
| Postal Service (Federal Government) | $115,070 |
How are Detectives and Criminal Investigators paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Colorado is $102,910, which is 10.0% above the national median of $93,580.