The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is one of the most prestigious law enforcement agencies in the United States. Among its most critical personnel are intelligence analysts, who gather, analyze, and interpret data to support investigations, counterterrorism, cybercrime prevention, and national security operations.
In 2025, FBI intelligence analysts’ salaries are determined by the federal General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with additional adjustments for locality, overtime, and special assignments. This guide provides a detailed overview of salary by grade level, benefits, allowances, career progression, and frequently asked questions, helping readers understand compensation for these high-demand federal positions.
Overview of FBI Intelligence Analyst Salary (2025)
FBI intelligence analyst salaries vary based on several factors:
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Grade Level (GS Pay Scale): Entry-level analysts typically start at GS-7 or GS-9, while experienced analysts may advance to GS-13 or GS-14.
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Years of Service: Annual pay increases occur with promotions and longevity.
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Location/Locality Pay: Salaries are adjusted to reflect the cost of living in various regions.
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Special Assignments or Hazard Pay: Analysts working in high-risk operations may receive additional compensation.
FBI intelligence analysts earn competitive federal salaries, supplemented by comprehensive benefits that include health coverage, retirement, and educational support.
Summary Table: FBI Intelligence Analyst Salary by Grade Level (2025)
| GS Grade | Years of Service | Base Pay (USD/Year) | Approx. Monthly Pay | Locality Pay (Est.) | Total Estimated Annual Compensation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | 0–2 yrs | $46,000 | $3,833 | $5,000 | $51,000–$52,000 |
| GS-9 | 2–4 yrs | $57,000 | $4,750 | $6,500 | $63,500–$64,000 |
| GS-11 | 4–7 yrs | $71,000 | $5,917 | $8,000 | $79,000 |
| GS-12 | 7–12 yrs | $87,000 | $7,250 | $10,000 | $97,000 |
| GS-13 | 12–16 yrs | $105,000 | $8,750 | $12,500 | $117,500 |
| GS-14 | 16–20 yrs | $125,000 | $10,417 | $15,000 | $140,000 |
Note: Figures include base pay and estimated locality adjustments. Actual pay may vary depending on the duty station, promotions, and special assignments.
How the FBI Intelligence Analyst Salary Structure Works (2025)
1. General Schedule (GS) Pay System
The FBI follows the federal GS pay scale, where salaries increase with grade and step. Analysts typically start at GS-7 or GS-9:
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GS-7: Entry-level, recent graduates with a relevant bachelor’s degree
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GS-9: Early career, often requiring a master’s degree or specialized training
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GS-11 to GS-13: Mid-career analysts with significant investigative experience
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GS-14 and above: Senior analysts, supervisors, or specialized subject matter experts
2. Locality Pay Adjustments
Locality pay accounts for regional cost-of-living differences. Analysts in high-cost areas such as Washington D.C., New York, and Los Angeles receive substantial pay adjustments, often adding 15–35% to base pay.
3. Special Assignment and Hazard Pay
Analysts working in counterterrorism, cybercrime, or undercover operations may qualify for additional incentives. Hazard pay, while less common than for field agents, is applied in certain high-risk environments.
4. Performance-Based Increases
Step increases within a GS grade are awarded based on performance evaluations, training completions, and successful project outcomes. Analysts demonstrating high competency can progress faster in pay and rank.
5. Education and Certifications
FBI intelligence analysts often hold advanced degrees in intelligence studies, cybersecurity, or international affairs. Certifications such as Certified Intelligence Analyst (CIA) or GIS and data analysis certifications may influence promotion eligibility and pay adjustments.
Detailed FBI Intelligence Analyst Salary by Grade Level (2025)
GS-7 Analyst
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Salary Range: $46,000–$52,000 annually
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Roles: Entry-level research, data collection, reporting, and assisting senior analysts
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Notes: Strong emphasis on learning FBI databases, analytical software, and investigative procedures
GS-9 Analyst
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Salary Range: $57,000–$64,000 annually
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Roles: Conduct independent analysis, identify intelligence patterns, and support operational planning
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Notes: Analysts may specialize in cyber intelligence, counterterrorism, or criminal investigations
GS-11 Analyst
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Salary Range: $71,000–$79,000 annually
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Roles: Mid-level analysts often lead research teams, develop actionable intelligence, and produce briefings for field agents
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Notes: Requires proficiency in multiple intelligence platforms and report generation
GS-12 Analyst
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Salary Range: $87,000–$97,000 annually
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Roles: Senior analysts, task force leaders, or subject matter experts in areas like cyber threats, finance, or homeland security
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Notes: Often requires multi-year investigative experience and interagency coordination
GS-13 Analyst
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Salary Range: $105,000–$117,500 annually
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Roles: Supervisory roles, strategic planning, briefing senior management, and coordinating large-scale investigations
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Notes: Analysts at this level may manage national or regional intelligence programs
GS-14 Analyst
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Salary Range: $125,000–$140,000 annually
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Roles: Senior leadership, policy advisory, oversight of intelligence programs, and critical decision-making
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Notes: Involves significant administrative responsibility and interagency liaison duties
Benefits and Allowances for FBI Intelligence Analysts (2025)
Key Benefits
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Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision plans for employees and dependents
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Retirement Plans: Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions
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Paid Leave: Annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays
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Training and Education: Access to advanced intelligence courses, leadership programs, and certifications
Key Allowances
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Locality Pay: Adjustments based on city or region
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Overtime Pay: Compensatory or monetary for extra hours worked during high-demand periods
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Special Assignment Incentives: For cyber, counterterrorism, or international assignments
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Travel and Deployment Per Diems: When analysts are deployed for field operations or interagency work
Factors Influencing FBI Intelligence Analyst Salaries
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Grade Level and Step within GS: Primary salary determinant
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Years of Service: Longevity pay increases
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Location: Cost-of-living adjustments
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Specialized Skills: Cyber, financial crimes, foreign languages
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Performance Evaluations: Influence step increases and promotions
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Education Level: Advanced degrees may impact hiring grade and pay
Career Progression for FBI Intelligence Analysts
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Entry-Level Analyst (GS-7/GS-9): Conduct research, data collection, and initial intelligence reporting
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Mid-Level Analyst (GS-11/GS-12): Lead small teams, develop intelligence products, coordinate with field agents
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Senior Analyst (GS-13/GS-14): Supervise major investigations, advise leadership, manage interagency intelligence operations
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Executive Leadership (GS-15/SES): Strategic planning, policy guidance, and oversight of national intelligence programs
Promotions depend on performance, training, leadership skills, and intelligence contributions. Analysts with foreign language proficiency or cybersecurity expertise may advance faster.
FAQs — FBI Intelligence Analyst Salary (2025)
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What is the starting salary for an FBI intelligence analyst?
$46,000–$52,000 annually for GS-7 entry-level positions. -
Do analysts receive hazard pay?
Yes, in limited high-risk assignments or deployments. -
Are there location-based pay adjustments?
Yes, locality pay can increase salaries by 15–35% in high-cost cities. -
What education is required?
Typically a bachelor’s degree; advanced degrees increase hiring grade. -
Can analysts earn overtime?
Yes, during critical investigations or field operations. -
What benefits do analysts receive?
Health coverage, retirement, paid leave, training, and travel allowances. -
What is the maximum GS level for analysts?
GS-14 for senior analysts; GS-15 or SES for executive leadership roles. -
Are bonuses available?
Special assignment or skill-based incentives may apply. -
Do years of service affect pay?
Yes, step increases occur with longevity and performance. -
Can analysts transfer between locations?
Yes, based on position availability, security clearance, and operational needs.
Conclusion
In 2025, FBI intelligence analysts enjoy competitive federal salaries with a wide array of benefits, allowances, and career advancement opportunities. Compensation is driven by GS grade, years of service, locality pay, specialized skills, and performance. This makes intelligence analysis a rewarding career for those committed to national security, investigative research, and interagency collaboration.
With salaries ranging from $46,000 for entry-level analysts to over $140,000 for senior GS-14 analysts, plus comprehensive benefits, the FBI offers a strong and structured career path for aspiring intelligence professionals in the USA.