How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in St. Louis?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The St. Louis metro area has approximately 120,631 households - potential car detailing clients within a 15-mile radius. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here.
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Suggested: $36/hr based on St. Louis wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $81 - $108
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
St. Louis Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in St. Louis.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $23 | $45 | $68 |
| Interior detail | $68 | $113 | $180 |
| Full detail | $135 | $203 | $315 |
| Per hour | $27 | $36 | $54 |
Prices adjusted for St. Louis cost of living (90% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in St. Louis?
Estimates based on St. Louis average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
St. Louis vs Other Missouri Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | $36/hr | 90% | high |
| Kansas City(most expensive) | $37/hr | 92% | very high |
| Springfield(most affordable) | $33/hr | 82% | high |
| Missouri Average | $35/hr | 88% | - |
Market Position: St. Louis
St. Louis sits at the state average for Missouri - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Missouri Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •KC metro spans two states - may need KS registration too
- •Workers comp rules vary by industry
- •Local licenses required in cities
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.
St. Louis Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Missouri
Kansas City and St. Louis are distinct markets with different competitors. Choose your region.
Spring flooding along rivers creates pressure washing demand for mud and debris removal.
Lake of the Ozarks vacation properties need seasonal maintenance packages.
Key Insight: Missouri's central location and moderate costs make it ideal for building efficient service routes.
Car Detailing Demand in Missouri 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 St. Louis?
In St. Louis, MO, you should charge $36-$54/hour for car detailing. This is 10% below the national average because St. Louis's cost of living is 90% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $72-$180.
What's the average car detailing rate in St. Louis, Missouri?
The average car detailing rate in St. Louis is $36/hour or $108 per job. St. Louis has high demand with a population of 302K. Local pros typically charge $29-$54/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in St. Louis?
Car Detailing companies in St. Louis charge $29-$54/hour (90% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $29/hour, while complex work commands $54+/hour. The high demand in St. Louis supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in St. Louis?
Key pricing factors in St. Louis: (1) Cost of living - 10% below national average at 90%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - St. Louis's 302K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Missouri?
Missouri licensing requirements: No state contractor license required KC metro spans two states - may need KS registration too Workers comp rules vary by industry 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 St. Louis a good market for car detailing businesses?
St. Louis shows high demand for car detailing services. With 302K residents and a 90% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $36-$54/hour. The Missouri market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do St. Louis car detailing prices compare to Missouri average?
St. Louis car detailing prices are typically 10% below the Missouri state average. While state average is around $35/hour, St. Louis pros charge $36/hour due to the city's 90% 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 St. Louis, Missouri 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
- Missouri Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026