Infidelity, a missing person, or a business dispute can leave you searching for answers. A private investigator in Los Angeles can uncover the truth, gather evidence, and provide clarity—but how much do their services cost?
Rates vary based on the investigator’s experience, location, and the type of case. Some charge by the hour, while others offer flat fees for specific services. If you’re considering hiring one, understanding what affects pricing can help you budget and make the right choice.
Learn what goes into the cost of hiring a qualified surveillance investigator and what you can expect to pay.
Fee Structures for Private Investigators
Private investigators use different pricing models based on the type of work involved. Common fee structures include:
- Hourly rate. Clients pay for the investigator’s time, with billing based on surveillance, research, or interviews as needed. The average cost is $75 to $125 per hour, depending on the investigator’s experience and the complexity of the work.
- Per diem. Investigators charge a flat daily fee for cases that require long hours of surveillance or travel rather than tracking time by the hour. Rates are typically between $600 and $1,000 per day.
- Flat rate per task. Some services have a set price based on the work involved. For instance, a background check could be around $100 to $500, with higher fees for executive-level screenings versus basic records searches.
- Retainer fee. Clients pay a deposit before work begins, and the investigator deducts costs as the case progresses. A standard retainer is between $400 and $2,500, based on the expected scope of work and the investigator’s policies.
These structures determine how investigators charge, but the final cost will depend on the specifics of your case and the firm you decide to work with.
What Determines the Cost of Private Investigation Services?
The cost of professional private investigation services varies depending on the type of service, location, experience of the investigator, and case complexity. Here’s a closer look at what affects pricing:
| Factor | What It Involves | How It Affects Cost |
| Type of Investigation | Surveillance, fraud, missing persons, and background checks require different skills and time commitments. | Complex cases require more work, increasing hourly or flat fees. For example, PIs need extended surveillance hours to investigate a cheating spouse, which typically costs between $800 and $2,500. |
| Investigator’s Expertise | Specialized skills like cyber forensics, forensic accounting, or legal investigations require advanced training. | Skilled investigators charge higher rates, but their efficiency may reduce total hours. Specialized services are typically between $125 and $400 per hour. |
| Location and Travel | Investigations in high-cost areas or requiring travel add expenses for transportation, lodging, and per diem costs. | Long-distance or out-of-state cases come with additional fees. For instance, hiring a private investigator to find someone costs about $250 to $1,000, but traveling to another state or country can increase the fee. |
| Time and Workload | Extensive research, multiple interviews, or long surveillance hours increase labor costs. | Cases with high time demands lead to larger invoices. Legal research alone can be $95 to $125 per hour. |
| Equipment and Technology Used | GPS tracking, hidden cameras, forensic software, and data recovery tools add operational costs. | High-tech cases come with added expenses for specialized tools. |
A reliable private investigation firm provides quality service at a fair price. Finding one that offers real value and trusted results starts with knowing what to look for.
How To Get the Best Value When Hiring a Private Investigator
To ensure you receive high-quality investigative services at a fair price, consider these tips:
- Choose a licensed and reputable agency. In Los Angeles, private investigators must be licensed by the California Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
- Ask about fees upfront. A trustworthy investigator will break down expected costs and potential additional expenses during an initial consultation.
- Discuss your case needs in detail. When meeting with the investigator, provide detailed information about your case. This allows them to estimate costs accurately and recommend the best approach for obtaining results.
- Beware of unrealistically low prices. If an investigation service offers lower rates than competitors, it may indicate a lack of experience, outdated resources, or unethical practices. A skilled private investigator charges competitive rates while delivering reliable and legally obtained evidence.
Get Transparent, Cost-Effective Private Investigation in Los Angeles
When hiring a private investigator, you deserve transparent pricing, customized services, and trusted results. Whether you need a missing person investigation, corporate fraud detection, or infidelity surveillance, Worldwide Intelligence Network provides discreet, results-driven solutions tailored to your situation.
Ranked among the top five private investigation firms in the U.S., we serve attorneys, businesses, high-net-worth individuals, and families with professionalism and accuracy. Our team of former federal agents, military intelligence experts, and law enforcement professionals delivers thorough investigations with clear pricing and detailed cost estimates.
Contact us today to discuss your needs and receive a quote for your case.