Customs Inspector Salary in the United States

How much does a Customs Inspector make in the United States?

As of October 01, 2026, the average salary for a Customs Inspector in the United States is $45,701 per year, which breaks down to an hourly rate of $22.

However, a Customs Inspector's salary can vary significantly. Here’s a look at the typical salary range:

  • Top Earners (90th percentile): $68,626
  • Majority Range (25th-75th percentile): $41,401 to $57,701
  • Entry-Level (10th percentile): $37,486

Key Factors That Influence Customs Inspector Salaries

A Customs Inspector's salary isn't a fixed number. It's shaped by several important factors. Below, we'll explore how geographic location and company size can directly affect your earning potential.

Top Paying Cities for Customs Inspectors

Salaries can also vary between different cities. Major metropolitan areas or cities with a high demand for technicians often offer more competitive pay. Here are a few examples of average annual salaries in different U.S. cities:

  • San Jose: $57,601
  • San Francisco: $57,001
  • Oakland: $55,801

Customs Inspector Salary by Company Size: Startups vs. Enterprise

Customs Inspector salary potential scales significantly with company size. Data shows that Enterprise companies (5,000+ employees) pay the highest average salary at around $45,701. While startup companies pay approximate $45,701.

Customs Inspector Salary by Company Size

Company Size Employees Average Salary
Startup 1~50 $45,701
Growth Stage 51~500 $45,701
Established 501~5000 $45,701
Enterprise 5000+ $45,701

Customs Inspector Salary: Hourly Rate, Weekly Pay, and Monthly Pay

Understanding how a Customs Inspector's annual salary breaks down can help with budgeting. Below, you can see the average hourly rate, weekly pay, and monthly pay for this role. Use the buttons to switch between different pay periods.

Last Updated on October 01, 2026
$41,401
Average $45,701/year
$57,701
$3,450
Average $3,808/month
$4,808
$796
Average $879/week
$1,110
$20
Average $22/hour
$28
Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
75th Percentile $57,701 $4,808 $1,110 $28
Average $45,701 $3,808 $879 $22
25th Percentile $41,401 $3,450 $796 $20

Customs Inspector Salary Growth & Career Path

For a Customs Inspector, the most direct path to higher earnings is advancing to the Import /Export Coordinator II role. This promotion typically comes with a significant pay increase, bringing the average annual salary to $50,700 - a projected growth of 11% over your current level.

Most common benefits for Customs Inspector

  • Social Security
  • 401 (k)
  • Disability
  • Healthcare
  • Pension
  • Time Off (days)

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FAQ about Customs Inspector

1. What is the highest salary in customs?

The salary for a Customs Inspector ranges from $39,801 to $55,501 annually, with a mid-salary of $43,901. This data reflects the compensation structure for Customs Inspectors, providing a clear understanding of potential earnings in this role.

2. What is the salary of a U.S. customs agent?

The salary of a U.S. Customs Inspector ranges from a minimum of $39,801 to a maximum of $55,501, with a mid-range salary of $43,901. This reflects the typical earnings for this role, varying based on experience and location.

3. Is U.S. Customs a good job?

U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a competitive salary for Customs Inspectors, with a minimum of $39,801, a mid-range of $43,901, and a maximum of $55,501. The agency has an overall rating of 3.8 out of 5, with 71% of employees recommending it to friends and 65% expressing a positive outlook on the business.

4. What is the job outlook for a customs inspector?

The job outlook for customs inspectors is positive, with an estimated 114,400 professionals currently employed in the U.S. The market is projected to grow by 1.5% from 2022 to 2032. Salaries for customs inspectors range from a minimum of $39,801 to a maximum of $55,501, with a mid-salary of $43,901, reflecting the demand for this role.

5. What is the 30k incentive for Border Patrol?

The $30,000 incentive for Border Patrol includes an initial $10,000 paid upon successful completion of the academy, with the remaining amount disbursed after fulfilling a three-year service agreement. Additionally, new agents who accept a prioritized location can receive an extra $10,000, totaling $30,000. Customs Inspectors earn between $39,801 and $55,501 annually.

6. What FBI agents make the most money?

Customs Inspectors earn between $39,801 and $55,501 annually, with a mid-salary of $43,901. While FBI agents have higher earning potential, Customs Inspectors play a crucial role in border security and enforcement, making their salary competitive within law enforcement careers.

Where Does Our Salary Data Come From?

Salary.com provides salary estimates, histograms, trends, and comparisons using data from employer job postings and third-party sources.

We offer detailed salary information across multiple percentiles for your reference. (Click here to learn Why the Salary Midpoint Formula Is Crucial for Achieving Pay Equity.)

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