Private Investigator Cost Calculator
Private investigator costs vary by case type and investigator experience. Surveillance operations, due diligence investigations, and asset searches each have different cost structures.
Quick PI Cost Estimate
Estimate PI costs by case type and duration.
Case Cost Builder
Calculate detailed investigation costs.
Corporate Investigation Budget
Annual budget for corporate intelligence and due diligence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a private investigator cost per day?
PI daily rates range from $400-$1,500 in the US. Surveillance specialists with counter-intelligence backgrounds charge $1,000-$2,500/day. Corporate intelligence firms charge $1,500-$5,000/day for complex due diligence. Most require a 2,000-$5,000 upfront retainer. International investigations command significant premiums: expect $2,000-$10,000/day in high-cost countries.
What can a private investigator legally do?
Licensed PIs can: conduct physical surveillance in public spaces, run database searches (criminal records, civil court, property), interview witnesses, perform background checks, locate missing persons, and serve legal documents. They cannot: trespass, hack computers, access private phone records without consent, impersonate law enforcement, or wiretap without proper authorization.
When should I hire a PI vs. a law firm investigator?
Use a PI for surveillance, infidelity investigations, asset searches, and witness location. Use a law firm's investigators for litigation support, document collection, expert witness work, and matters requiring attorney-client privilege protection. For complex corporate situations, consider hybrid services from firms like Kroll, Control Risks, or FTI Consulting.
How do I verify a PI is licensed?
PI licensing is state-regulated in the US. Verify licenses through your state's Department of Consumer Affairs or Security Regulation board. The National Association of Legal Investigators (NALI) and World Association of Detectives (WAD) maintain directories of vetted professionals. Always request a copy of their license and proof of liability insurance before engaging.
Private Investigator Costs in 2026
The private investigation industry has been transformed by digital forensics and open-source intelligence (OSINT). Today's top PIs combine traditional surveillance skills with advanced data analytics, social media investigation, and financial forensics. This breadth of capability comes at a price — top corporate intelligence specialists charge $2,000-$5,000/day.