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Job outlook for detective lieutenants in the United States
Are detective lieutenant jobs in demand?
Detective lieutenant job and salary trends over time
Detective lieutenant jobs over time
Detective lieutenant job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 2,871 | 0.00% |
| 2020 | 2,739 | 0.00% |
| 2019 | 2,717 | 0.00% |
| 2018 | 2,612 | 0.00% |
| 2017 | 2,348 | 0.00% |
Average detective lieutenant salary over time
Detective lieutenant salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $52,265 | $25.13 | +2.1% |
| 2024 | $51,208 | $24.62 | +2.3% |
| 2023 | $50,050 | $24.06 | +1.3% |
| 2022 | $49,420 | $23.76 | +3.6% |
| 2021 | $47,694 | $22.93 | +3.3% |
Detective lieutenant jobs by state
Most common states for detective lieutenants
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Connecticut | 3,588,184 | 30 | 1% |
| 2 | South Carolina | 5,024,369 | 29 | 1% |
| 3 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 7 | 1% |
| 4 | Delaware | 961,939 | 5 | 1% |
| 5 | California | 39,536,653 | 55 | 0% |
| 6 | New York | 19,849,399 | 51 | 0% |
| 7 | Texas | 28,304,596 | 48 | 0% |
| 8 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 45 | 0% |
| 9 | Michigan | 9,962,311 | 32 | 0% |
| 10 | Ohio | 11,658,609 | 28 | 0% |
| 11 | Illinois | 12,802,023 | 18 | 0% |
| 12 | Kentucky | 4,454,189 | 13 | 0% |
| 13 | Washington | 7,405,743 | 7 | 0% |
| 14 | Nevada | 2,998,039 | 6 | 0% |
| 15 | Colorado | 5,607,154 | 6 | 0% |
| 16 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 5 | 0% |
| 17 | West Virginia | 1,815,857 | 2 | 0% |
| 18 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 2 | 0% |
| 19 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 1 | 0% |
| 20 | Idaho | 1,716,943 | 0 | 0% |
Detective Lieutenant job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of detective lieutenant experts
Pennsylvania State University - Beaver
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Detective Lieutenants?
Jodi Gill: In criminal justice, our "business" is people and can think critically and quickly in responding to them. In addition to required courses in the major, I always suggest students take classes in Psychology (at a minimum, an introductory period). Our society is also more diverse and global, so any levels which increase knowledge and understanding of other cultures are helpful. Foreign language skills are beneficial in the field, as well.
Are there any particularly good places in the United States for Detective Lieutenants to find work opportunities?
Jodi Gill: Our field is not dependent on geography, and there are needs everywhere! Right now, it is an exciting time as governments are exploring additional ways to address issues beyond law enforcement. For example, restorative justice, mediation, and other community-related programs can proactively prevent crime before it happens. A degree in criminal justice can prepare graduates to contribute to these initiatives in significant ways successfully.
What's a day at work look like for a Detective Lieutenant?
Jodi Gill: There is no "typical day" in this field, which is why I enjoy it so much! At any point in time, criminal justice professionals are required to pivot and adapt. Coursework in criminal justice prepares individuals for changing times and circumstances, and our graduates are ready to meet those challenges!