Find a Private Investigator near you
The average rating for Bark Private Investigators is 4.77, based on 62,428 reviews
5/5
based on 62,428 reviews
Need a private investigator to uncover the truth but unsure how much it’ll set you back? Read on to find out just how much a private investigator will charge for their services.
The role of private detectives, otherwise known as private investigators (PIs), evokes images of film noir scenes filled with shadowy figures and suspenseful music. However, the reality of hiring a private detective is quite different - and we're here to make the process less mysterious. If you find yourself in a situation where you're considering the expertise of a PI, you're likely full of questions. One of the first will be: "how much does a private detective cost?"
In 2023, more than 60,400 people used Bark to find a PI in the US. Demand for investigations has never been stronger, which means that competition is high - but so are your options. This guide to the cost of hiring a detective will help you set your budget and find your way to the answers you need.
Remember, these prices are national averages and will vary based on your location. To get a truly tailored number, get free quotes from local private investigators now.
Before we discuss costs, it's helpful to understand what services a PI can provide. Private detectives offer a wide range of investigative services, from asset tracking and background checks to more complex tasks like surveillance and undercover investigations. Everything they do requires skill and expertise, but it's always legal and above board. Whether you're dealing with a personal, legal, or business matter, a PI can offer valuable assistance with things like:
Surveillance and counter-surveillance
Taking pictures and gathering evidence
Interviewing witnesses and carrying out research
Conducting background checks and running credit reports
Process serving
Performing due diligence and debt recovery
Tracking people down who you've lost touch with
On average, private detectives in the US charge between $50-$100 per hour. However, for highly specialized or complex cases, or if you're seeking a detective with extensive experience, rates can go as high as $400 per hour.
Other services may be offered at a flat rate, depending on the task. Here are some typical rates for different services:
| Service | Average | Typical range |
| Criminal background check | $375 | $250-$500 |
| General background check | $500 | $200-$900 |
| Tracing a missing person | $1,000 | $700-$1,200 |
| Asset discovery | $1,300 | $1,000-$1,600 |
| Undercover surveillance | $95 per hour | $50-$150 per hour |
Several factors influence the cost of hiring a PI:
Complexity of the case - More complex cases require more time and resources, thus costing more.
Experience level of the PI - Highly experienced detectives often charge higher rates.
Nature of the services required -Flat-rate services compared to hourly surveillance work can vary greatly in cost.
Duration of the investigation - Longer investigations will naturally incur higher costs.
Location - Unsurprisingly, if you live in an area with a higher cost of living you're likely to pay more for your PI. That's why getting quotes from local detectives is a good way to gauge your budget.
To give you a better idea of how much people have paid, here are some average figures from our own database showing how much people spent on their investigation. Remember, these prices are ranges, so getting your own private investigation quote is the best way to ensure you're paying the right price.
| Region | Lower spend | Average spend | Higher spend |
| East North Central | $149 | $275 | $1,000 |
| East South Central | $149 | $450 | $1,000 |
| Middle Atlantic | $149 | $250 | $1,000 |
| New England | $149 | $260 | $1,000 |
| Pacific | $149 | $295 | $1,000 |
| South Atlantic | $150 | $500 | $2,000 |
| West North Central | $100 | $160 | $500 |
| West South Central | $149 | $350 | $1,000 |
PIs typically offer a variety of payment structures to accommodate different types of cases and client needs. You might pay them daily, hourly, or by project. It's crucial to discuss and agree upon payment structure ahead of time so there are no surprises.
Many private investigators ask for money upfront, called a retainer fee, to cover investigation costs. If there's money left over after they finish, they give it back. If they run out of money before finishing, they might start charging monthly instead.
The value of hiring a PI varies depending on the situation. In many cases, the information or resolution they provide can be invaluable. For peace of mind, legal reasons, or financial implications, the cost of a PI can be a worthwhile investment. At the end of the day, it's up to you how much getting the information you seek is worth.
Remember, the initial rate isn't the only cost. Depending on the investigation, there may be additional expenses. These fees cover administrative tasks, travel expenses like lodging and meals, special equipment, and specialist database access. If you're paying for your PI's mileage, you might find this IRS guide to standard mileage rates useful. Always inquire about these charges before signing with your detective, so you know what you'll be paying for.
On top of all this, you might want to factor in administrative costs that aren't included in your project. These might include report writing, emails, phone calls, meetings, and more.
Now you know how much a private detective costs, you can decide if hiring one is the right decision for you. While the cost can vary widely based on the services you need, the reputation and experience level of the investigator, and the complexity of your case, it's safe to say that the investment in your peace of mind can be invaluable.
The average rating for Bark Private Investigators is 4.77, based on 62,428 reviews
5/5
based on 62,428 reviews
