Car Detailing Cost in California (2026)

Car wash and detailing wages in California are about 9% higher than the U.S. median (rank 10 of 52), so local detailing prices are too. Here is what to expect.

Estimated Detailing Prices in California

Estimates for 2026, not quotes. Built from BLS wage data for car wash and detailing workers in California ($18/hr median, May 2024). How we estimate · Updated October 28, 2026

PackageSedan or coupeSmall SUV or crossoverTruck, minivan or 3-row SUV
Exterior hand wash and wax$70–$100$80–$120$95–$135
Interior detail (vacuum, shampoo, wipe-down)$135–$200$160–$235$185–$275
Full detail (interior + exterior)$215–$315$255–$375$295–$435
One-step paint correction (polish)$380–$560$455–$665$525–$765
Ceramic coating (with prep, 2–5 year)$625–$915$725–$1,065$825–$1,210

Mobile detailers who come to you usually charge about 10–20% more. Shop labor rate: $50–$74 per hour.

Open the Detailing Cost Calculator

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Where These Numbers Come From

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median wage of $17.93 an hour for cleaners of vehicles and equipment (car wash and detailing workers) in California (May 2024), with about 48,280 people in the job, versus $16.45 nationally. We adjust for wage growth to 2026 and apply typical business markups (payroll taxes, insurance, rent, chemicals, equipment and profit). Full method.

What Changes the Price

Get Accurate Quotes

Ask two or three detailers for a written quote that lists what each package includes; we list 88 detailing and mobile businesses in California. See car washes and detailers in California and our detailing cost guide.

Listings: © OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) · Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics · Data last updated October 27, 2026 · Sources & method