There is no single price for an investigation. What you pay depends on what needs to be done, how long it takes and what it costs to do it properly in New York. This guide explains the factors so you can compare quotes intelligently.
What drives the cost
- Type of work. Open-ended work such as surveillance is usually billed by the hour. Defined tasks such as some background or records searches may be quoted as a flat fee.
- Hours. A subject with a predictable routine takes fewer hours to observe than one who moves unpredictably.
- Number of investigators. Mobile subjects in Manhattan traffic or on transit sometimes need two investigators.
- Urgency and timing. Same-day, overnight, weekend or holiday work can cost more.
- Location and travel. Mileage, tolls, parking and travel between boroughs or out to Long Island add expenses.
- Reporting and testimony. Court-ready reports, video handling and time to testify are part of the work when a matter is headed to litigation.
Ronin Consulting’s rate
Ronin Consulting: $185/hr, 3-hour minimum ($555).
Background checks: flat $350.
Published NYC rates (for reference)
For comparison, New York Intelligence Agency publishes $240/hr with a 5-hour daily minimum (as published on their site, checked October 30, 2026).
How Ronin prices a matter
Ronin’s rate is $185/hr with a 3-hour minimum ($555). We discuss what you need to learn, recommend a scope, and give you an estimate before work begins. If an investigation is unlikely to answer your question at a reasonable cost, we will tell you.
Questions to ask any investigator
- Are you licensed in New York State?
- What exactly is included, and what counts as an expense?
- Is there a minimum number of hours?
- What will the report include, and will it be usable in court?
- How will you keep me informed as the work goes?
Every matter is overseen by Jim Galvin, a former NYPD detective with 23 years of service, including 13 years in the Detective Bureau and led multiple investigative units. Jim is a licensed private investigator and notary. More about Jim.
Questions
How much does a private investigator cost in NYC?
It depends on the type of work, the hours involved, the number of investigators, and expenses. Published NYC rates vary by agency. Ronin Consulting’s rate is $185/hr with a 3-hour minimum ($555). Contact Ronin for an estimate for your matter.
Does Ronin publish its rate?
Yes. Ronin Consulting’s rate is $185/hr with a 3-hour minimum ($555). We discuss your matter first and provide an estimate before work begins.
Why do some investigators charge flat fees?
Defined tasks, such as some records searches, have a predictable scope. Open-ended work like surveillance is usually billed by time.
Last updated October 30, 2026.