How Much to Charge for Car Detailing in Madison?2026 Local Rates & Calculator
The Madison metro area has approximately 107,936 households - potential car detailing clients within a 15-mile radius. Plenty of work available at competitive rates. Focus on efficiency and client retention. Costs in Madison run 9% above the Wisconsin state average, supporting higher rates.
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Suggested: $41/hr based on Madison wages
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $92 - $122
2h estimated
Standard (Full Interior/Exterior)- + Interior wipe, tire dressing
Cost Breakdown
Madison Car Detailing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for car detailing in Madison.
Car Detailing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic wash | $26 | $51 | $77 |
| Interior detail | $77 | $128 | $204 |
| Full detail | $153 | $230 | $357 |
| Per hour | $31 | $41 | $61 |
Prices adjusted for Madison cost of living (102% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Car Detailing in Madison?
Estimates based on Madison average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
Madison vs Other Wisconsin Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Madison | $41/hr | 102% | very high |
| Racine(most affordable) | $34/hr | 85% | medium |
| Wisconsin Average | $37/hr | 93% | - |
Market Position: Madison
Madison is a premium market in Wisconsin - costs here are above the state average, supporting higher service rates.
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Wisconsin Licensing Requirements
- •No state contractor license required
- •Register with WI Department of Financial Institutions
- •Workers comp required at 3+ employees
- •Local licenses vary by city
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.
Madison Car Detailing Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful car detailing business in Wisconsin
Lake house properties (Door County, Lake Geneva) are premium seasonal market.
Milwaukee and Madison are distinct markets with different customer bases.
Spring salt damage creates pressure washing demand March-April.
Key Insight: Wisconsin's lake culture and seasonal tourism create strong supplemental revenue opportunities.
Car Detailing Demand in Wisconsin 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 Madison?
In Madison, WI, you should charge $41-$61/hour for car detailing. This is 2% above the national average because Madison's cost of living is 102% of the US baseline. For typical jobs, expect to quote $82-$204.
What's the average car detailing rate in Madison, Wisconsin?
The average car detailing rate in Madison is $41/hour or $122 per job. Madison has average demand with a population of 270K. Local pros typically charge $33-$61/hour depending on complexity.
How much do car detailing companies charge per hour in Madison?
Car Detailing companies in Madison charge $33-$61/hour (102% of national average). Entry-level jobs start around $33/hour, while complex work commands $61+/hour. The average demand in Madison supports these rates.
What factors affect car detailing prices in Madison?
Key pricing factors in Madison: (1) Cost of living - 2% above national average at 102%, (2) Market demand - very high in this area, (3) Competition - Madison's 270K population creates average demand, (4) Job complexity and materials, (5) Seasonal demand fluctuations.
Do I need a license for car detailing in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin licensing requirements: No state contractor license required Register with WI Department of Financial Institutions Workers comp required at 3+ 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 Madison a good market for car detailing businesses?
Madison shows average demand for car detailing services. With 270K residents and a 102% cost of living index, local businesses can charge $41-$61/hour. The Wisconsin market is about equal to for service businesses.
How do Madison car detailing prices compare to Wisconsin average?
Madison car detailing prices are typically 2% above the Wisconsin state average. While state average is around $37/hour, Madison pros charge $41/hour due to the city's 102% 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 Madison, Wisconsin 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
- Wisconsin Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026