- Salary statistics
- Detective salary
Detective salary
Latest available salary statistics are for 2025. Compare average pay, salary range and related job listings.
30 800 - 49 800 SEK / month
Women earn 92% of what men do.
Säkerhetsarbete
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Salary progression Detective
What does a Detective do? – Tasks and Work Environment
The detective profession is characterized by varied and often challenging work content, where investigation, information gathering, and analysis are central. Tasks include collecting and processing facts, conducting interviews, surveillance, and sometimes fieldwork to clarify circumstances in cases such as criminal investigations or internal inquiries within companies. The work can be performed independently or in teams, depending on the nature of the assignment. The environment varies between offices, public places, and sometimes outdoors, requiring flexibility and adaptability. Irregular working hours occur, especially during time-critical investigations or surveillance assignments.
Salary development over time
The salary for a Detective has shown steady and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 30,700 SEK, which increased to 34 500 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has reached 35 200 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 12.4% over the three-year period. This salary development reflects increased demand for specialized skills within surveillance and security sectors, as well as generally rising salary levels in the security industry. The clear trend towards higher educational and experience requirements has also contributed to raising salaries, especially for Detectives with post-secondary education and specialization.
Detective salary – a complete overview
- Average salary: 35 200 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 30,200 SEK/month (male, public sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 47,100 SEK/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education 3+ years)
- Hourly wage: 207 SEK
- Women: 33 500 SEK/month
- Men: 36 400 SEK/month
- Women earn: 92% of what men do
- Regional differences: Salary levels vary slightly, with higher averages in metropolitan regions where demand is greater
Many Detectives are hired to investigate and prevent internal thefts or fraud within companies, which means the profession often requires a good understanding of both human behavior and business processes. Detective work is therefore not only about surveillance and observation but also about building trust and collaborating with various professional groups.
Education and qualifications
To work as a Detective, a combination of relevant education and practical experience is usually required. Many have backgrounds in law enforcement, security, or law, but there are also private training programs and courses focused on investigation work. Certain roles require specific certifications or licenses, and employers may set requirements for a certain length of education depending on the complexity of the assignment.
- Post-secondary education: 1–3 years in security, law, or criminology is common
- Specialized courses: In surveillance, investigative methods, and IT forensics
- Internships or trainee programs: Provide valuable experience and networks
- Certifications: For example, authorization for security personnel
- Prerequisites: Approved background check and sometimes driver’s license
- Self-study: Possible via online courses in investigation and security
- Tips for choosing: Select education with practical components to increase employability
Common benefits and compensations
Detectives often have access to collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and insurance. Extra compensation may occur for unsociable hours, on-call duties, or special assignments. Larger companies or public sector employers may also offer skills development, subsidized lunches, and flexible working hours.
Competition and challenges
The Detective profession has become increasingly competitive as both private and public sectors have intensified their focus on security work. The number of job openings in the field remains relatively stable, but requirements for education and experience have increased. Digitalization and technological tools mean that modern Detectives need to master both traditional and digital methods, which can be a challenge for those lacking technical skills. The profession also demands high integrity, stress resilience, and the ability to handle ethical dilemmas. Keeping up to date with laws and regulations is crucial to succeed in the role.
Tips for those who want to become Detectives
To succeed as a Detective, it is good to develop your analytical skills early on and practice critical thinking, as the profession often requires processing and evaluating large amounts of information quickly. Being meticulous and methodical helps in investigations where details can be crucial. Persistence and patience are qualities that facilitate long-term surveillance or complex cases. Good communication skills are important for collaborating with colleagues and building trust with clients or interviewees. A certain interest in technology is advantageous, as digital tools and surveillance technology are increasingly used. Continuously furthering your education and staying updated on new methods in the security industry is also wise. Lastly, discretion and high ethical standards are essential, as the profession often involves handling sensitive information.
Key facts about Detectives
- Education level: Post-secondary education of 1–3 years is most common
- Work environment: Varied between office, field, and digital environments
- Typical work form: Full-time, sometimes shifts or irregular hours
- Demand: 191 job openings within the profession
- Special skills: Investigation methods and technical competence
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, Detectives have opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as investigation manager, security director, or specialist in IT forensics. Some choose to start their own businesses and work as private detectives or security consultants. Forecasts from the Employment Service show continued stable demand, especially for those with digital skills and experience in complex investigations. The industry’s move towards increased digitalization and specialization creates new career paths in areas such as cybercrime investigation and internal audits. Opportunities for further education and certification also make it easier to change focus or take on more advanced investigative assignments.
Frequently asked questions about Detectives
- What is the average salary of a Detective?
- The average salary for a Detective is 35 200 SEK per month. - Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn an average of 33 500 SEK, while men earn 36 400 SEK, which means women earn 92% of men's salaries. - How has the salary development for Detectives looked over time?
- Over the past three years, the average salary has increased from 30,700 SEK to 35 200 SEK, an increase of approximately 12.4%. - What education is required to become a Detective?
- Post-secondary education in security, law, or criminology, along with specialized courses, is common. - What career options are there for Detectives?
- Opportunities include advancing to investigation leader, security manager, or working as a consultant and private detective. - How high is the demand for Detectives?
- Currently, there are 191 job openings within the profession, indicating stable demand. - Are there regional salary differences for Detectives?
- Yes, salaries are generally slightly higher in metropolitan regions where demand is greater.
Salary distributed by age and sector
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 97% | 26400 kr | 30200 kr |
| 25-34 | 98% | 31100 kr | 33800 kr |
| 35-44 | 90% | 35000 kr | 37100 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 36100 kr | 38300 kr |
| 55-64 | 94% | 35100 kr | 36900 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 32700 kr | 35200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 95% | 26100 kr | 30500 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 31300 kr | 35200 kr |
| 35-44 | 89% | 35700 kr | 38300 kr |
| 45-54 | 84% | 37900 kr | 40400 kr |
| 55-64 | 89% | 35500 kr | 37700 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 33200 kr | 35900 kr |
| Snitt | 88% | 33700 kr | 36800 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 96% | 29000 kr | 35300 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 36200 kr | 41900 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 41400 kr | 45100 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 44400 kr | 47700 kr |
| 55-64 | 95% | 41400 kr | 45600 kr |
| 65-68 | 40000 kr | 45100 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 39800 kr | 44200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 103% | 24900 kr | 28700 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 28400 kr | 31300 kr |
| 35-44 | 103% | 31400 kr | 33200 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 32100 kr | 33600 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 32800 kr | 34200 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 31700 kr | 33800 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 30100 kr | 32300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26500 kr | 30000 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 30900 kr | 33000 kr |
| 35-44 | 34400 kr | 36100 kr | |
| 45-54 | 96% | 34400 kr | 36400 kr |
| 55-64 | 34600 kr | 36000 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 31800 kr | 34000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26500 kr | 30000 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 30900 kr | 33000 kr |
| 35-44 | 34400 kr | 36100 kr | |
| 45-54 | 96% | 34400 kr | 36400 kr |
| 55-64 | 34600 kr | 36000 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 31800 kr | 34000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 97% | 26600 kr | 30700 kr |
| 25-34 | 98% | 30900 kr | 34100 kr |
| 35-44 | 90% | 35900 kr | 38500 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 37300 kr | 39800 kr |
| 55-64 | 94% | 35600 kr | 37700 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 33500 kr | 36400 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 95% | 26300 kr | 31300 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 31900 kr | 36600 kr |
| 35-44 | 89% | 36700 kr | 39900 kr |
| 45-54 | 84% | 39800 kr | 42900 kr |
| 55-64 | 89% | 36700 kr | 39500 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 34400 kr | 36900 kr |
| Snitt | 88% | 34900 kr | 38500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 96% | 28700 kr | 35500 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 36100 kr | 42600 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 41500 kr | 45700 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 44700 kr | 48600 kr |
| 55-64 | 95% | 41300 kr | 45800 kr |
| 65-68 | 40000 kr | 45100 kr | |
| Snitt | 93% | 39700 kr | 44700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 103% | 24600 kr | 28200 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 28100 kr | 31000 kr |
| 35-44 | 103% | 30800 kr | 32700 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 31900 kr | 33500 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 32400 kr | 33700 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 32200 kr | 33800 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 29700 kr | 31900 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26700 kr | 30200 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 30300 kr | 32500 kr |
| 35-44 | 35200 kr | 37200 kr | |
| 45-54 | 96% | 34800 kr | 36900 kr |
| 55-64 | 34500 kr | 36000 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 32400 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26700 kr | 30200 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 30300 kr | 32500 kr |
| 35-44 | 35200 kr | 37200 kr | |
| 45-54 | 96% | 34800 kr | 36900 kr |
| 55-64 | 34500 kr | 36000 kr | |
| Snitt | 96% | 32400 kr | 34600 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 97% | 26200 kr | 29700 kr |
| 25-34 | 98% | 31200 kr | 33300 kr |
| 35-44 | 90% | 33400 kr | 34800 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 34200 kr | 35900 kr |
| 55-64 | 94% | 34300 kr | 35500 kr |
| Snitt | 92% | 31500 kr | 33500 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 95% | 25700 kr | 29600 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 30200 kr | 32800 kr |
| 35-44 | 89% | 33900 kr | 35500 kr |
| 45-54 | 84% | 34800 kr | 36200 kr |
| 55-64 | 89% | 33800 kr | 35100 kr |
| 65-68 | 92% | 30900 kr | 33900 kr |
| Snitt | 88% | 32000 kr | 34000 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 96% | 30800 kr | 34100 kr |
| 25-34 | 90% | 37100 kr | 38300 kr |
| 35-44 | 93% | 41000 kr | 42400 kr |
| 45-54 | 90% | 43200 kr | 44000 kr |
| 55-64 | 95% | 43300 kr | 43600 kr |
| Snitt | 93% | 40100 kr | 41300 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 103% | 25100 kr | 29100 kr |
| 25-34 | 102% | 28800 kr | 31600 kr |
| 35-44 | 103% | 32000 kr | 33600 kr |
| 45-54 | 101% | 32200 kr | 33700 kr |
| 55-64 | 102% | 33100 kr | 34500 kr |
| 65-68 | 101% | 30900 kr | 33900 kr |
| Snitt | 102% | 30400 kr | 32700 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26400 kr | 29800 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 31700 kr | 33500 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 33700 kr | 35500 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 31100 kr | 33200 kr |
| Age | Base salary | Monthly salary | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18-24 | 99% | 26400 kr | 29800 kr |
| 25-34 | 103% | 31700 kr | 33500 kr |
| 45-54 | 96% | 33700 kr | 35500 kr |
| Snitt | 96% | 31100 kr | 33200 kr |
About the data
All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.
All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.
Profession Detective has the SSYK code 5419, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.
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