How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Honolulu?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Honolulu metro area has approximately 140,386 households - potential car detailing clients within a 15-mile radius. Clients here value reliability and quality, creating room for pros who deliver both. Costs in Honolulu run 6% above the Hawaii state average, supporting higher rates.
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Suggested: $77/hr based on Honolulu wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $266 - $355
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Honolulu Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Honolulu.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $48 | $96 | $144 |
| Interior detail | $144 | $240 | $384 |
| Full detail | $288 | $432 | $672 |
| Per hour | $58 | $77 | $115 |
Prices adjusted for Honolulu cost of living (192% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Honolulu?
Estimates based on Honolulu average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Honolulu vs Other Hawaii Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honolulu | $77/hr | 192% | high |
| East Honolulu(most expensive) | $80/hr | 200% | high |
| Hilo(most affordable) | $70/hr | 175% | medium |
| Hawaii Average | $74/hr | 186% | - |
Market Position: Honolulu
Honolulu sits at the state average for Hawaii - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Hawaii Licensing Requirements
- •C-27b license may be required for landscape work over $1,500
- •GET (General Excise Tax) license required for all businesses
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •Higher costs make insurance even more important
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.
Honolulu Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Hawaii
Shipping equipment to Hawaii is expensive. Price accordingly — customers expect island premium of 50-80%.
Focus on one island to start. Inter-island travel for small jobs isn't economical.
Key Insight: Hawaii's isolation means less competition, but higher costs — premium pricing is both necessary and expected.
Car Detailing Demand in Hawaii by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Year-round demand means steady income. Focus on quality and retention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for car detailing in Honolulu?
In Honolulu, HI, you should charge $77-$115/hour for car detailing. This is 92% above the national average because Honolulu's cost of living is 192% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $154-$384.
What's the average car detailing rate in Honolulu, Hawaii?
The average car detailing rate in Honolulu is $77/hour or $230 per job. Honolulu has high demand with a population of 351K. Local pros typically charge $61-$115/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in Honolulu?
Car Detailing companies in Honolulu charge $61-$115/hour (192% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $61/hour, while complex work commands $115+/hour. The high demand in Honolulu supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in Honolulu?
Key pricing factors in Honolulu: (1) Cost of living - 92% above national average at 192%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Honolulu's 351K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Hawaii?
Hawaii licensing requirements: C-27b license may be required for landscape work over $1,500 GET (General Excise Tax) license required for all businesses Workers comp required for all employees 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 Honolulu a good market for car detailing businesses?
Honolulu shows high demand for car detailing services. With 351K residents and a 192% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $77-$115/hour. The Hawaii market is significantly higher than for service businesses.
How do Honolulu car detailing prices compare to Hawaii average?
Honolulu car detailing prices are typically 92% above the Hawaii state average. While state average is around $74/hour, Honolulu pros charge $77/hour due to the city's 192% cost of living index.
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Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Car Detailing pricing data for Honolulu, Hawaii 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
- Hawaii Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026