Salary of a Crime Scene Investigator
Average Salary of a Crime Scene Investigator in 2025
Considering a crime scene investigator role or fair forensic pay?
This guide will show you exactly what crime scene investigators earn in 2025. We will look at real salary data from top job sites and government sources.
You'll discover pay rates based on state, experience, and various career paths in forensic science.
We will answer common questions, such as:
How much do crime scene investigators make per hour?
What education requirements influence pay?
Which specializations offer the highest salaries?
This info will help you make smart career choices. It will also show you your value in today's forensic job market. Knowing how much you can earn is key to a successful career in crime scene investigation by 2025.
What's the Average Salary of a Crime Scene Investigator in the USA?
$67,024 per year (Average)
Average salaries for a Crime Scene Investigator come from multiple sources. PayScale says $56,193, Salary.com says $77,444, Glassdoor says $70,497, and ZipRecruiter says $59,636.
Crime scene investigator salaries have risen by 4-6% in most areas compared to last year. The rise comes from higher demand for forensic experts and more funding for police agencies nationwide.
Crime Scene Investigator Key Metrics 2025
Average salary: $67,024 per year.
Job board analysis of over 8,600 salary data points shows that most crime scene investigators make between $45,000 and $85,000 each year.
Salary range: $40,474 - $92,785.
According to Salary.com, a Crime Scene Investigator's salary in the US varies widely. It can reach up to $92,785 or drop to $40,474. However, most earn between $58,093 and $85,474. The wide range reflects different experience levels, education, and geographic locations.
Salary by experience:
Entry-level (0-2 years): $45,000 - $55,000
Mid-level (3-7 years): $55,000 - $75,000
Senior-level (8+ years): $75,000 - $95,000+
75th percentile: $85,474. Most crime scene investigators, 75%, make under $85,474 a year. The top 25% earn more by specializing and gaining advanced experience.
Crime Scene Investigator Regional Comparison
Location plays a major role in how much crime scene investigators earn. Urban areas with higher crime rates and more resources typically pay better salaries. State and local government budgets also affect compensation levels significantly.
Some states have specialized forensic labs that offer premium salaries for experienced investigators. Texas shows higher-than-average pay, with crime scene investigators earning $103,540.
Here's how salaries compare across major regions:
Texas is a great place for crime scene investigators. The salaries are good, and the cost of living is low in many areas. This makes it an appealing spot for forensic professionals.
6 Tips to Grow Your Salary as a Crime Scene Investigator
1. Get Advanced Certifications: Certifications from the International Association for Identification (IAI) can boost salaries by 15-25%. Certifications in bloodstain pattern analysis or digital forensics earn high salaries.
2. Get a Higher Degree: A master's in forensic science or criminal justice can boost your pay by 20-30%. Many senior positions require advanced degrees for consideration.
3. Develop Technical Specializations: Specialists in DNA analysis, ballistics, or digital forensics often earn 25-40% more than general crime scene investigators. These skills are in high demand.
4. Federal jobs: Agencies like the FBI, ATF, and DEA often pay 30-50% more than local law enforcement for forensic roles. They also offer better benefits.
5. Build Courtroom Testimony Experience: Investigators who testify well as expert witnesses earn more money and are more valuable to employers. This can lead to better promotion chances.
6. Consider Leadership Roles: Forensic supervisors and lab directors can earn $90,000-$150,000+ annually. Leadership experience and management skills are essential for these positions.
FAQs About a Crime Scene Investigator's Salary
Is the average salary of a Crime Scene Investigator before or after tax?
All salary figures mentioned are gross annual income before taxes. You will need to subtract federal, state, and local taxes from these amounts.
Does the average salary include overtime pay for Crime Scene Investigators?
Most base salary figures do not include overtime. Crime scene investigators usually have irregular hours. They earn time-and-a-half pay for any overtime.
How much do Crime Scene Investigators make per hour in 2025?
The average hourly rate is $37 per hour, ranging from $19 to $45 depending on the experience level and location.
What education level affects a Crime Scene Investigator's salary the most?
You usually need a bachelor's degree in forensic science or a related field. A master's degree can earn you 20-30% more than a bachelor's degree.
Do Crime Scene Investigators get benefits like health insurance?
Most full-time jobs with government agencies offer great benefits. These often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.
What is the salary difference between entry-level and experienced Crime Scene Investigators?
Entry-level positions start at about $59,636 a year. Experienced investigators can earn $85,000 to $95,000 or more each year. This shows a 40-60% pay increase.
Which type of employer pays Crime Scene Investigators the most?
Federal agencies usually pay the most. State crime labs come next. Local law enforcement agencies follow, and private consulting firms pay the least.
Can Crime Scene Investigators earn six-figure salaries?
Yes, senior investigators, supervisors, and federal employees often make over $100,000 a year. This is common in high-cost areas and specialized jobs.
Note: All pay information is current as of 2025. The information and data are compiled from various international salary surveys and government statistics, 2025.
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