How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Virginia?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 8.6M residents and high vehicle ownership, Virginia has approximately 6,905,114 potential car detailing clients. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention. Demand for car detailing stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. Virginia rates run about 5% lower than neighboring Maryland - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Suggested: $42/hr based on Virginia wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $94 - $125
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Virginia Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Virginia.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $26 | $52 | $78 |
| Interior detail | $78 | $130 | $208 |
| Full detail | $156 | $234 | $364 |
| Per hour | $31 | $42 | $62 |
Prices adjusted for Virginia cost of living (104% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Virginia?
Estimates based on Virginia average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Virginia vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $42/hr | 104% | high |
| National Average | $40/hr | 100% | - |
| Maryland(neighbor) | $44/hr | 109% | high |
| West Virginia(neighbor) | $34/hr | 84% | low |
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Virginia Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required for maintenance services
- •BPOL tax applies in most Virginia localities
- •Workers comp required at 3+ employees
- •NoVA may have additional requirements
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.
Virginia Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Virginia
Northern Virginia (DC suburbs) has highest incomes in the country. Premium positioning works.
Historic areas (Williamsburg, Alexandria) require soft washing expertise.
Military bases (Norfolk, Quantico) offer stable commercial contracts.
Federal contractor registration (SAM) opens doors to government work.
Key Insight: Virginia's federal economy and wealthy suburbs create exceptional demand for professional service.
Car Detailing Demand in Virginia 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 Virginia?
In Virginia, car detailing rates range from $34-$63/hour, with an average of $42/hour. Virginia's cost of living is 104% of the national average. Major cities like Virginia Beach command higher rates ($41/hr), while smaller markets like Newport News average $38/hr.
What's the Virginia average for car detailing services?
The Virginia statewide average for car detailing is $42/hour or approximately $126-$210 per job. This reflects Virginia's 104% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which Virginia cities have the highest car detailing rates?
In Virginia, Virginia Beach has the highest car detailing rates at around $41/hour due to its 102% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Virginia?
Virginia licensing: No state contractor license required for maintenance services BPOL tax applies in most Virginia localities Workers comp required at 3+ employees NoVA may have additional requirements 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 Virginia a good market for car detailing businesses?
Virginia offers a strong market for car detailing with rates averaging $42/hour. The state's 104% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Car Detailing pricing data for Virginia 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
- Virginia Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026