How Much to Charge for Pressure Washing in California?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 39.5M residents and a 55.5% homeownership rate, California has approximately 21,943,714 potential pressure washing customers. This is a premium market where clients expect quality and are willing to pay top dollar for it. With a 10-month season, pressure washing is practically a year-round business here. California rates run about 32% higher than neighboring Oregon - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
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Average driveway: 600 sq ft
Suggested: $107/hr based on California wages
Fuel, pump wear, chemicals
Insurance, marketing, admin
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $352 - $413
$0.64/sq ft - 1.5h estimated
Cost Breakdown
California Pressure Washing Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for pressure washing in California.
Pressure Washing Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per sq ft | $0.21 | $0.39 | $0.57 |
| Driveway | $142 | $249 | $355 |
| Deck / patio | $213 | $355 | $497 |
| Full house | $355 | $604 | $852 |
| Per hour | $71 | $107 | $142 |
Prices adjusted for California cost of living (142% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Pressure Washing in California?
Estimates based on California average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
California vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $107/hr | 142% | very high |
| National Average | $75/hr | 100% | - |
| Oregon(neighbor) | $83/hr | 110% | high |
| Nevada(neighbor) | $78/hr | 104% | high |
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California Licensing Requirements
- •C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500
- •Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27
- •$25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •City business licenses required everywhere
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.
Pressure Washing Demand in California 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 pressure washing in California?
In California, pressure washing rates range from $86-$161/hour, with an average of $107/hour. California's cost of living is 142% of the national average. Major cities like San Francisco command higher rates ($143/hr), while smaller markets like Fresno average $81/hr.
What's the California average for pressure washing services?
The California statewide average for pressure washing is $107/hour or approximately $321-$535 per job. This reflects California's 142% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which California cities have the highest pressure washing rates?
In California, San Francisco has the highest pressure washing rates at around $143/hour due to its 190% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Do I need a license for pressure washing in California?
California licensing: C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500 Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27 $25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license Workers comp required for all employees City business licenses required everywhere 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 California a good market for pressure washing businesses?
California offers a strong market for pressure washing with rates averaging $107/hour. The state's 142% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Pressure Washing pricing data for California 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
- California Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026