Auto Body Labor Rates in California (2025)

California (CA) body shop labor rates based on industry surveys from 4,000+ shops. Body labor rates in California are 40% above the national average ($ 105/hr vs. $75/hr national average). Metro areas in California typically see a 25% premium above statewide rates.

Body Labor

+40%
$105 /hr

National avg: $75/hr. Standard auto body repair work including panel straightening, filler application, and assembly.

Paint / Refinish

+40%
$105 /hr

National avg: $75/hr. Refinishing labor including sanding, priming, basecoat, clearcoat, and blending.

Mechanical

+59%
$175 /hr

National avg: $110/hr. Mechanical repair labor including suspension, steering, engine, and drivetrain work related to collision damage.

Frame / Structural

+45%
$145 /hr

National avg: $100/hr. Structural and frame repair requiring specialized equipment like frame racks and measuring systems.

California vs. National Average

Body Labor
$75/hr nat'l vs. $105/hr CA +40%
Paint / Refinish
$75/hr nat'l vs. $105/hr CA +40%
Mechanical
$110/hr nat'l vs. $175/hr CA +59%
Frame / Structural
$100/hr nat'l vs. $145/hr CA +45%

Sources: Progressive PGR 2024 (CA zones avg body $103, refinish $103, frame $136, mech $172), Torque360 ($155-175), autoGMS 2025

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