Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Pennsylvania
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Pennsylvania | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,740 | $93,580 | +5.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #15 of 51 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 3,390 jobs | 110,790 jobs | 3.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Pennsylvania
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,510 | $30.53 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,750 | $36.90 |
| Median | $98,740 | $47.47 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,600 | $57.50 |
| 90th Percentile | $151,720 | $72.94 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Pennsylvania in 2026?
With a median salary of $98,740 in Pennsylvania and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +33.0%, detectives and criminal investigators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can detectives and criminal investigators increase their salary in Pennsylvania?
Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Pennsylvania 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: Pennsylvania currently ranks #15 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 Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania compared to the national average?
The median salary for Detectives and Criminal Investigators in Pennsylvania is $98,740, which is 5.5% above the national median of $93,580.