Private Detectives and Investigators in Colorado
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | Colorado | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,720 | $52,370 | -5.1% vs US |
| State Rank | #23 of 50 states | ||
| Employment | 580 jobs | 38,700 jobs | 1.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in Colorado
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $42,130 | $20.25 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,960 | $21.14 |
| Median | $49,720 | $23.91 |
| 75th Percentile | $68,640 | $33.00 |
| 90th Percentile | $87,260 | $41.95 |
Related Links
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Private Detectives and Investigators in Colorado in 2026?
With a median salary of $49,720 in Colorado and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +10.4%, private detectives and investigators are still in strong and growing demand.
How can private detectives and investigators increase their salary in Colorado?
Private Detectives and 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 #23 out of 50 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 Private Detectives and Investigators in Colorado?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $167,370 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $167,370 |
| Scientific Research and Development Services | $160,770 |
How are Private Detectives and Investigators paid in Colorado compared to the national average?
The median salary for Private Detectives and Investigators in Colorado is $49,720, which is 5.1% below the national median of $52,370.