How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Portland?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Portland metro area has approximately 27,363 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 Portland run 6% above the Maine state average, supporting higher rates.
Calculate Your Car Detailing Price
Enter Your Details
Suggested: $47/hr based on Portland wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $106 - $142
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Portland Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Portland.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $30 | $59 | $89 |
| Interior detail | $89 | $148 | $236 |
| Full detail | $177 | $266 | $413 |
| Per hour | $35 | $47 | $71 |
Prices adjusted for Portland cost of living (118% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Portland?
Estimates based on Portland average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Portland vs Other Maine Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portland | $47/hr | 118% | high |
| Auburn(most affordable) | $40/hr | 100% | medium |
| Maine Average | $45/hr | 112% | - |
Market Position: Portland
Portland sits at the state average for Maine - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
Your Business Misses 5-10 Calls a Day.
One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.
Every time you can't answer, that caller Googles the next business - and they pick up. 62% won't leave a voicemail. They won't call back. That's $200-500 walking out the door. Stop losing money - let AI answer while you work.
Instant Call Answering
Never miss a lead, even at 3 AM
Smart Scheduling
Books appointments directly to your calendar
SMS Follow-ups
Automatic text confirmations to callers
24/7 Availability
Works while you sleep, holidays included
"I answer calls now when I can, but Voctiv catches everything I miss. No more lost leads."
- William P., Small Business Owner, Utah
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
Maine Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with Maine Secretary of State
- •Local licenses vary by municipality
- •Workers comp required for 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.
Portland Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Maine
Compressed season (May-October) means premium pricing is expected. Don't undercharge.
Second homes and summer properties need spring opening and fall closing services. Package these.
Key Insight: Maine's short season and tourism economy mean higher rates are expected — price for the season, not the hour.
Car Detailing Demand in Maine 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 Portland?
In Portland, ME, you should charge $47-$71/hour for car detailing. This is 18% above the national average because Portland's cost of living is 118% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $94-$236.
What's the average car detailing rate in Portland, Maine?
The average car detailing rate in Portland is $47/hour or $142 per job. Portland has high demand with a population of 68K. Local pros typically charge $38-$71/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in Portland?
Car Detailing companies in Portland charge $38-$71/hour (118% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $38/hour, while complex work commands $71+/hour. The high demand in Portland supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in Portland?
Key pricing factors in Portland: (1) Cost of living - 18% above national average at 118%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Portland's 68K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Maine?
Maine licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with Maine Secretary of State Local licenses vary by municipality 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 Portland a good market for car detailing businesses?
Portland shows high demand for car detailing services. With 68K residents and a 118% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $47-$71/hour. The Maine market is slightly higher than for service businesses.
How do Portland car detailing prices compare to Maine average?
Portland car detailing prices are typically 18% above the Maine state average. While state average is around $45/hour, Portland pros charge $47/hour due to the city's 118% cost of living index.
Other Services in Portland
Other Maine Cities
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Car Detailing pricing data for Portland, Maine 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
- Maine Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026