How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Houston?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Houston metro area has approximately 921,832 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: $38/hr based on Houston wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $86 - $114
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Houston Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Houston.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $24 | $48 | $71 |
| Interior detail | $71 | $119 | $190 |
| Full detail | $143 | $214 | $333 |
| Per hour | $29 | $38 | $57 |
Prices adjusted for Houston cost of living (95% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Houston?
Estimates based on Houston average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Houston vs Other Texas Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | $38/hr | 95% | very high |
| Austin(most expensive) | $42/hr | 105% | very high |
| San Antonio(most affordable) | $36/hr | 90% | very high |
| Texas Average | $37/hr | 92% | - |
Pricing Zones in Houston
Houston's wealthiest neighborhoods with large properties.
Growing suburban and urban core with steady demand.
Price-sensitive but high-volume opportunities.
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Texas Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Workers comp is optional (non-subscriber state)
- •Sales tax permit required from Comptroller
- •No state income tax
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.
Houston Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Texas
Texas is not one market — Dallas, Houston, Austin, and San Antonio have different dynamics.
Summer heat (100°F+) means early morning scheduling is essential.
Key Insight: Texas's massive scale and growth create endless opportunity — but pick your metro and dominate it.
Car Detailing Demand in Texas 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 Houston?
In Houston, TX, you should charge $38-$57/hour for car detailing. This is 5% below the national average because Houston's cost of living is 95% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $76-$190.
What's the average car detailing rate in Houston, Texas?
The average car detailing rate in Houston is $38/hour or $114 per job. Houston has average demand with a population of 2.3 million. Local pros typically charge $30-$57/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in Houston?
Car Detailing companies in Houston charge $30-$57/hour (95% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $30/hour, while complex work commands $57+/hour. The average demand in Houston supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in Houston?
Key pricing factors in Houston: (1) Cost of living - 5% below national average at 95%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Houston's 2.3 million population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Texas?
Texas licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Workers comp is optional (non-subscriber state) Sales tax permit required from Comptroller 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 Houston a good market for car detailing businesses?
Houston shows average demand for car detailing services. With 2.3 million residents and a 95% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $38-$57/hour. The Texas market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Houston car detailing prices compare to Texas average?
Houston car detailing prices are typically 5% below the Texas state average. While state average is around $37/hour, Houston pros charge $38/hour due to the city's 95% 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 Houston, Texas 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
- Texas Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026