How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in California?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 39.5M residents and high vehicle ownership, California has approximately 31,630,578 potential car detailing clients. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Demand for car detailing stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. California rates run about 32% higher than neighboring Oregon - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Suggested: $57/hr based on California wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $146 - $194
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
California Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in California.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $36 | $71 | $107 |
| Interior detail | $107 | $178 | $284 |
| Full detail | $213 | $320 | $497 |
| Per hour | $43 | $57 | $85 |
Prices adjusted for California cost of living (142% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in California?
Estimates based on California average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
California vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $57/hr | 142% | very high |
| National Average | $40/hr | 100% | - |
| Oregon(neighbor) | $44/hr | 110% | high |
| Nevada(neighbor) | $42/hr | 104% | high |
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California Licensing Requirements
- •C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500
- •Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27
- •$25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •City business licenses required everywhere
This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Car Detailing Demand in California by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for car detailing in California?
In California, car detailing rates range from $46-$86/hour, with an average of $57/hour. California's cost of living is 142% of the national average. Major cities like San Francisco command higher rates ($76/hr), while smaller markets like Fresno average $43/hr.
What's the California average for car detailing services?
The California statewide average for car detailing is $57/hour or approximately $171-$285 per job. This reflects California's 142% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which California cities have the highest car detailing rates?
In California, San Francisco has the highest car detailing rates at around $76/hour due to its 190% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Do I need a license for car detailing in California?
California licensing: C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500 Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27 $25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license Workers comp required for all employees City business licenses required everywhere This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Is California a good market for car detailing businesses?
California offers a strong market for car detailing with rates averaging $57/hour. The state's 142% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Nearby States
Other Calculators for California
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Car Detailing pricing data for California is sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau cost of living data, and verified quotes from local service professionals.
Data Sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- California Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026