The Average Salary of Private Investigators in Nashville, Tennessee

A private investigator performs a variety of services to investigate an individual or business. This can include investigations such as background checks or surveillance of individuals or businesses. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated average salaries for private detectives and investigators in the Nashville area in May 2009.

Requirements

In Tennessee, private investigators are required to obtain a license administered by the Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance. To obtain a license, candidates must pass an examination and complete at least 12 hours of continuing education each year. Licenses must be renewed every two years. The application and license cost $250 and the license renewal fee is $100.

Salary

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated salaries for private detectives and investigators in its Nashville/Davidson/Murfreesboro/Franklin, Tennessee division. Median annual wages were $29,130. This compares to median annual wages of $37,100 in Tennessee and $42,110 nationally.

Percentiles

In the Nashville area, the 25th percentile of private detectives and investigators earned $25,710 per year and the 75th percentile earned $36,820 per year. The 10th percentile earned $23,930 per year and the 90th percentile earned $63,410 per year.

Hourly Wages

The work of private investigators is typically during irregular hours and many employers offer hourly wages. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimated 26 percent of all private investigators are self-employed. Median hourly wages in the Nashville area were $14 per hour. The 25th percentile earned $12.36 per hour and the 75th percentile earned $17.70 per hour.

References

• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Private Detectives and Investigators
• Bureau of Labor Statistics: Private Detectives and Investigators OES; May 2009
• Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin, TN OES; May 2009
• Tennessee Department of Commerce and Insurance: Private Investigator Requirements