Private investigator cost in California
Estimated California rates are national published ranges adjusted by the BEA Regional Price Parity index for California (112 vs. U.S. = 100). State-specific PI wage data is limited, so treat these as informed estimates.
| Service | Typical California range |
|---|---|
| Infidelity / surveillance | $101–$196/hr |
| Child custody | $101–$196/hr |
| Workers' comp / insurance fraud | $84–$168/hr |
| Corporate / due diligence | $140–$336/hr |
| Background check | $168–$1,008 flat |
| Locate a person / skip trace | $168–$1,344 flat |
| Asset search | $1,120–$1,792 flat |
| Process serving | $73–$140 flat |
Licensing in California
Licensed by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
Official California licensing / regulatory site →
Always ask for the investigator's license number and verify it with the state before hiring. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the regulator.
Top-rated local investigators in Los Angeles, CA
Ratings and review counts are from public Google Maps data as of 2026-10-16, ranked by rating weighted by review volume. Listed businesses are not affiliated with, and do not endorse, this site. Always verify licensing.
City guides: Los AngelesSan Diego
Private investigator cost estimator
Estimates use national ranges from published 2026 pricing guides, adjusted by the U.S. BEA Regional Price Parity index for your state, plus mileage at the IRS standard rate ($0.70/mi). Real quotes vary. See sources & methodology.
Get matched with a vetted investigator → Get matched now, $49Fill out the form below, then you can pay our $49 match fee, which connects you with a vetted, top-rated investigator for your case (licensed where your state requires it). If we can't match you within 2 business days, we refund the $49.
Get matched with a vetted, top-rated investigator
Free, no obligation. Tell us about your case and we'll connect you with vetted, top-rated investigators (licensed where your state requires it), who serve your area.
After you submit (lawful purposes only), you can pay our $49 match fee, which connects you with a vetted, top-rated investigator for your case (licensed where your state requires it). If we can't match you within 2 business days, we refund the $49.