How much does a Automotive Detailer make?
Automotive Detailers earn a solid income for their efforts in keeping cars looking fresh and clean. The average yearly salary for someone in this role is around $32,146. This means most detailers can expect to make this amount each year if they have some experience. Their skills in washing, polishing, and protecting vehicle surfaces get them this income.
The range of salaries shows that with more experience and skill, detailers can earn even more. The lowest-paid detailers make about $20,000 a year. At the top, the highest-paid detailers can earn up to $51,500. These top earners often have advanced skills or work in areas where demand for detailers is higher. By building their skills and gaining experience, detailers can move up in pay over time.
What are the highest paying cities for a Automotive Detailer?

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Seattle, WA
Average Salary: $47,137
In Seattle, auto detailers can find jobs with companies like Carwash Pros. The city's love for cars and clean streets creates steady work. Seattle's mild weather helps detailers work comfortably year-round.
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Baltimore, MD
Average Salary: $45,993
Baltimore offers auto detailers jobs with companies like Valvoline Instant Oil Change. The city's diverse job market means many opportunities. The local culture appreciates well-kept vehicles.
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Denver, CO
Average Salary: $44,405
In Denver, detailers work with companies like Meineke Car Care Centers. The city's high altitude can affect some services but also brings a unique market. Denver's vibrant car community supports steady demand.
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San Jose, CA
Average Salary: $44,208
San Jose offers jobs with companies like J.D. Power and Associates. The tech industry's presence means many luxury cars to detail. The city's growing economy supports a steady job market.
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Los Angeles, CA
Average Salary: $43,964
Los Angeles provides jobs with companies like Speedy Car Wash. The city's car culture and large population create many opportunities. Warm weather allows for year-round work.
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San Francisco, CA
Average Salary: $43,709
San Francisco offers jobs with companies like AAA Mobile Car Care. The city's wealthy residents mean high-end vehicles. San Francisco's unique urban environment offers a dynamic job market.
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San Diego, CA
Average Salary: $42,639
In San Diego, detailers work with companies like Jiffy Lube. The city's sunny weather allows for outdoor work year-round. San Diego's strong economy supports steady job growth.
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Sacramento, CA
Average Salary: $42,080
Sacramento provides jobs with companies like American Express Car Care. The state capital's mild climate helps with consistent work. Sacramento's growing population creates more opportunities.
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Colorado Springs, CO
Average Salary: $41,757
Colorado Springs offers jobs with companies like Firestone Complete Auto Care. The city's military presence supports a steady job market. Colorado Springs' high altitude affects some services but also brings unique challenges.
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Atlanta, GA
Average Salary: $41,453
In Atlanta, detailers work with companies like Quick Quack Car Wash. The city's car culture and growing economy create many opportunities. Atlanta's warm climate allows for year-round work.
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What are the best companies a Automotive Detailer can work for?

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Washos, Inc.
Average Salary: $78,088
Washos, Inc. offers competitive pay for automotive detailers. They have locations across the United States, providing ample opportunity for employment. Their detailers work on various luxury and high-end vehicles.
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ROSENTHAL AUTOMOTIVE
Average Salary: $48,800
ROSENTHAL AUTOMOTIVE provides good compensation for automotive detailers. The company operates several locations in Ohio. They specialize in high-quality detailing services for both new and used cars.
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Bio Car Care
Average Salary: $46,167
Bio Car Care offers fair wages for automotive detailers. They have multiple locations in California. Their detailers work on a wide range of vehicles, ensuring each one leaves the shop looking its best.
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Faulkner Automotive
Average Salary: $44,776
Faulkner Automotive pays its detailers well. They have locations in the Southeast. Their team focuses on thorough and professional detailing services for a variety of vehicles.
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Iden's Dealer Services
Average Salary: $44,382
Iden's Dealer Services provides solid pay for automotive detailers. They operate in Florida and offer a range of services to keep cars looking pristine.
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Bud Clary Auto Group
Average Salary: $43,842
Bud Clary Auto Group offers competitive salaries for detailers. They have locations in Kentucky and Tennessee. Their detailers take pride in delivering excellent detailing services.
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Penske Automotive Group
Average Salary: $43,451
Penske Automotive Group provides fair wages for its detailers. With locations in multiple states, they offer a variety of detailing services to meet customer needs.
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Copart, Inc
Average Salary: $42,159
Copart, Inc. offers competitive pay for detailers. They have locations across several states and specialize in vehicle reconditioning and detailing.
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Music City Recon
Average Salary: $41,537
Music City Recon provides fair wages for detailers. They operate in Tennessee and focus on high-quality detailing and vehicle refurbishment.
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Hire The Winners
Average Salary: $40,964
Hire The Winners offers decent pay for automotive detailers. They have locations in California and specialize in detailing services for a variety of vehicles.
How to earn more as a Automotive Detailer?
Automotive detailing is a skilled trade with room for growth. By focusing on certain areas, you can increase your earnings. One way to earn more is by specializing in luxury vehicles. These cars require more care and attention, so detailers who focus on them can charge higher rates.
Another way to increase your income is by offering additional services. Many clients will pay extra for services such as paint protection, ceramic coatings, or interior cleaning. Providing these services can help you stand out and attract higher-paying clients. Investing in high-quality tools and equipment also pays off. Better tools lead to better results, which can help you charge more for your services.
Here are some steps you can take to increase your earnings:
- Specialize in luxury vehicles.
- Offer additional services such as paint protection and ceramic coatings.
- Invest in high-quality tools and equipment.
- Build a strong reputation for quality work.
- Network with other detailers and industry professionals.



