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Crime Scene Investigator Salary in Philadelphia, PA

How much does a Crime Scene Investigator make in Philadelphia, PA?

$116,910 (USD)/year

Average Bonus

$3,425 (USD)

per Year
Total Compensation

$118,804.46

As of July, 23, 2026, the average crime scene investigator gross salary in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is $116,910 or an equivalent hourly rate of $56. In addition, crime scene investigators earn an average bonus of $3,425. An entry level crime scene investigator with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $82,303. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level crime scene investigator with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $130,963. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Data powered by ERI

Salary Potential for a Crime Scene Investigator

Explore the estimated salary growth for a Crime Scene Investigator in Philadelphia, PA for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Crime Scene Investigator will be $119,927 in 1 year and $132,793 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$123,021
Average Growth
5.2 %
The estimated salary for a Crime Scene Investigator in 2 years is $123,021, which is 5.2 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.

Typical Crime Scene Investigator Education

This chart displays the highest level of education for Crime Scene Investigators.

  • 2% of Crime Scene Investigators have less than a High School Diploma
  • 37% of Crime Scene Investigators have a High School Diploma
  • 7% of Crime Scene Investigators have an Associate's Degree
  • 54% of Crime Scene Investigators have a Bachelor's Degree
  • 0% of Crime Scene Investigators have a Master's Degree
  • 0% of Crime Scene Investigators have a Doctorate Degree

The typical field of study for a Crime Scene Investigator is Criminal Justice/Police Science.

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Popular Skills for a Crime Scene Investigator

Skills data not available for this job

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Cost of Living in Philadelphia, PA

The cost of living in Philadelphia, PA is 20% higher than the national average.
Cost of living trend higher
20% higher
than the national average
Whether you're planning to move or just want to see the cost of living in different locations, our cost-of-living calculator is the place to start. Compare salaries for other locations by city, U.S. ZIP code, state, or country.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Crime Scene Investigator do?
Investigates alleged or suspected criminal violations of federal, state, or local laws to determine if evidence is sufficient to recommend prosecution. Examines charge, complaint, or allegation of law violation to identify issues involved and types of evidence needed. Assists in determining scope, timing, and direction of investigation. Develops and uses informants to get leads to information. Interviews, observes, and interrogates suspects and witnesses and analyzes records to secure evidence or establish facts. Examines records to detect links in chain of evidence or information. Uses cameras and photostatic machines to record evidence and documents. Verifies information obtained to establish accuracy and authenticity of facts and evidence. Maintains surveillances and performs undercover assignments. Presents findings in clear, logical, impartial, and properly documented reports. Reports critical information to and coordinates activities with other offices or agencies when applicable. Testifies before grand juries. Serves subpoenas or other official papers. May lead or coordinate work of other special agents. May obtain and use search and arrest warrants. May serve on full-time, detail, or rotational protection assignments. May carry firearms and make arrests. May be designated according to agency worked for as special agent, fbi; special agent, irs; special agent, secret service.
How much does a Crime Scene Investigator make in Philadelphia, PA?
The average salary for a Crime Scene Investigator is $116,910 per year or $56.21 per hour in Philadelphia, PA. Top earners have reported making up to $130,963. However, the typical pay range in Philadelphia, PA is between $82,303 and $130,963 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Crime Scene Investigator?
Crime Scene Investigator is projected to see a 13.6 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer? 
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career. 
What are some factors that impact Crime Scene Investigator salaries? 
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.

About Our Data

This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.

ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.

Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.

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