How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Knoxville?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Knoxville metro area has approximately 76,296 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: $35/hr based on Knoxville wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $79 - $106
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Knoxville Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Knoxville.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $22 | $44 | $66 |
| Interior detail | $66 | $110 | $176 |
| Full detail | $132 | $198 | $308 |
| Per hour | $26 | $35 | $53 |
Prices adjusted for Knoxville cost of living (88% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Knoxville?
Estimates based on Knoxville average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Knoxville vs Other Tennessee Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Knoxville | $35/hr | 88% | high |
| Nashville(most expensive) | $41/hr | 102% | very high |
| Memphis(most affordable) | $34/hr | 85% | high |
| Tennessee Average | $36/hr | 90% | - |
Market Position: Knoxville
Knoxville sits at the state average for Tennessee - price competitively and focus on service quality to stand out.
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Tennessee Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •No state income tax
- •Workers comp required at 5+ employees
- •County business tax applies to most businesses
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.
Knoxville Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Tennessee
Nashville is one of fastest-growing US metros. New construction means new customers.
No state income tax keeps operating costs lower. Competitive advantage.
Key Insight: Tennessee's explosive growth and no state income tax make it excellent for building a business.
Car Detailing Demand in Tennessee 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 Knoxville?
In Knoxville, TN, you should charge $35-$53/hour for car detailing. This is 12% below the national average because Knoxville's cost of living is 88% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $70-$176.
What's the average car detailing rate in Knoxville, Tennessee?
The average car detailing rate in Knoxville is $35/hour or $106 per job. Knoxville has high demand with a population of 191K. Local pros typically charge $28-$53/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in Knoxville?
Car Detailing companies in Knoxville charge $28-$53/hour (88% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $28/hour, while complex work commands $53+/hour. The high demand in Knoxville supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in Knoxville?
Key pricing factors in Knoxville: (1) Cost of living - 12% below national average at 88%, (2) Market demand - high in this area, (3) Competition - Knoxville's 191K population creates high demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Tennessee?
Tennessee licensing requirements: No state contractor license required No state income tax Workers comp required at 5+ 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 Knoxville a good market for car detailing businesses?
Knoxville shows high demand for car detailing services. With 191K residents and a 88% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $35-$53/hour. The Tennessee market is slightly lower than for service businesses.
How do Knoxville car detailing prices compare to Tennessee average?
Knoxville car detailing prices are typically 12% below the Tennessee state average. While state average is around $36/hour, Knoxville pros charge $35/hour due to the city's 88% 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 Knoxville, Tennessee 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
- Tennessee Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026