Private Detectives and Investigators Salary in Montana

$24,309 $78,890
10th pct Median: $45,866 90th pct
Percentile Annual Salary
10th (Entry Level)$24,309
25th Percentile$33,024
50th (Median)$45,866
75th Percentile$63,295
90th (Top Earners)$78,890
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS, May 2024

Cost of Living Adjusted Salary

The Montana median salary of $45,866 for Private Detectives and Investigators has the purchasing power of approximately $42,273 in Missouri (the COL baseline state with index 100).

Montana's higher cost of living (COL index: 108.5) reduces the real purchasing power of wages compared to lower-cost states.

COL data: MERIC 2024 State Cost of Living Index. Missouri = 100 baseline.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Private Detectives and Investigators make in Montana?
Private Detectives and Investigators in Montana earn a median annual salary of $45,866 per year ($22.05/hr) according to BLS OEWS data (May 2024). This is below the national median of $52,120.
Is Montana a good state for Private Detectives and Investigators?
Montana pays slightly below the national average for private detectives and investigators. Cost of living in Montana is higher average (COL index: 108.5).
What is the cost-of-living adjusted salary for Private Detectives and Investigators in Montana?
After adjusting for cost of living (COL index: 108.5 vs. Missouri baseline of 100), the $45,866 salary in Montana has the purchasing power of approximately $42,273 in Missouri. Higher living costs in Montana reduce real purchasing power.
How does Montana compare to neighboring states for Private Detectives and Investigators salaries?
For detailed comparison across all states, see the full Private Detectives and Investigators salary page at the national level, which includes a complete 50-state salary table.

Top Paying Jobs in Montana

# Job Title Median Annual
1 Anesthesiologists $292,336
2 Radiologists $272,730
3 Orthopedic Surgeons, Except Pediatric $269,474
4 Neurologists $260,128
5 Surgeons, All Other $259,178
6 Ophthalmologists, Except Pediatric $239,254
7 Psychiatrists $219,822
8 Physicians, Pathologists $214,650
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

About Private Detectives and Investigators in Montana

Private Detectives and Investigators work in their specialized field applying expertise and skills to deliver value in their organization. This occupation is part of the protective service sector of the U.S. economy.

Education Required: High school diploma

View national Private Detectives and Investigators salary data →