How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in South Carolina?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 5.1M residents and high vehicle ownership, South Carolina has approximately 4,094,740 potential car detailing clients. High demand in a budget-conscious market - volume is your best friend here. Demand for car detailing stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. South Carolina rates run about 3% lower than neighboring North Carolina - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Suggested: $37/hr based on South Carolina wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $83 - $110
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
South Carolina Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in South Carolina.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $23 | $46 | $69 |
| Interior detail | $69 | $115 | $184 |
| Full detail | $138 | $207 | $322 |
| Per hour | $28 | $37 | $55 |
Prices adjusted for South Carolina cost of living (92% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in South Carolina?
Estimates based on South Carolina average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
South Carolina vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $37/hr | 92% | high |
| National Average | $40/hr | 100% | - |
| North Carolina(neighbor) | $38/hr | 95% | very high |
| Georgia(neighbor) | $37/hr | 93% | very high |
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South Carolina Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with SC Secretary of State
- •Workers comp required at 4+ employees
- •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.
South Carolina Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in South Carolina
Charleston's historic district requires soft washing expertise. Training is essential.
Palmetto bugs (roaches) thrive in SC humidity. Pressure washing helps control them.
Retirement communities (Hilton Head, Sun City) value reliability over rock-bottom prices.
Key Insight: South Carolina's tourism and retirement demographics create strong year-round demand.
Car Detailing Demand in South Carolina by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Offer 10-15% off-season discounts to maintain a steady client base.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for car detailing in South Carolina?
In South Carolina, car detailing rates range from $30-$56/hour, with an average of $37/hour. South Carolina's cost of living is 92% of the national average. Major cities like Mount Pleasant command higher rates ($45/hr), while smaller markets like Rock Hill average $35/hr.
What's the South Carolina average for car detailing services?
The South Carolina statewide average for car detailing is $37/hour or approximately $111-$185 per job. This reflects South Carolina's 92% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which South Carolina cities have the highest car detailing rates?
In South Carolina, Mount Pleasant has the highest car detailing rates at around $45/hour due to its 112% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston.
Do I need a license for car detailing in South Carolina?
South Carolina licensing: No state contractor license required Register with SC Secretary of State Workers comp required at 4+ employees 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.
Is South Carolina a good market for car detailing businesses?
South Carolina offers a competitive market for car detailing with rates averaging $37/hour. The state's 92% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Charleston, Columbia, North Charleston.
Other Calculators for South Carolina
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Car Detailing pricing data for South Carolina 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
- South Carolina Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026