How Much Do Mobile Groomers Make?

Mobile dog grooming is one of the most lucrative paths in the pet grooming industry. By bringing the salon directly to clients’ driveways, mobile groomers command premium prices while eliminating overhead costs like retail rent.

But how much do mobile groomers actually make? Let’s break down the real numbers.

Mobile Groomer Income Overview

Quick Numbers (2026)

How Mobile Compares to Salon Grooming

Mobile groomers typically earn 30–50% more than salon employees, though they carry business expenses.

Breaking Down Mobile Grooming Revenue

Average Pricing

Daily Revenue Potential

Conservative scenario (5 dogs/day)

• Average ticket: $95
• Daily revenue: $475
• Monthly revenue (22 days): $10,450
• Annual gross: $125,400

Moderate scenario (6–7 dogs/day)

• Average ticket: $100
• Daily revenue: $650
• Monthly revenue: $14,300
• Annual gross: $171,600

Aggressive scenario (8 dogs/day)

• Average ticket: $105
• Daily revenue: $840
• Monthly revenue: $18,480
• Annual gross: $221,760

Add-On Services

Boost revenue with extras.

Average add-on revenue: $15–$30 per dog.

Calculating Net Income

Revenue is not income. Here’s what you actually take home.

Monthly Operating Expenses

Net Income Example (Mid-Level Mobile Groomer)

Income by Experience Level

Factors Affecting Mobile Groomer Income

1. Location

High-earning markets include affluent suburbs, pet-friendly communities, areas with limited mobile competition, and regions with harsh weather.

2. Route Efficiency

Optimal service radius: 10–15 miles from your base.

3. Pricing Strategy

Pricing mistakes:

• Matching salon prices
• Discounting to build demand
• Not charging for travel

Pricing wins:

• Premium positioning
• Travel fees
• Rush and same-day surcharges

4. Efficiency and Speed

5. Booking Management

A 30-minute gap can cost:
1 dog/day × $100 × 250 days = $25,000/year lost.

Solutions:

• Route-optimized scheduling software
• Tight booking windows
• Standby waitlists
• No-show and late-cancel fees

Startup Costs for Mobile Grooming

Vehicle Options

Conversion and Equipment (DIY)

Total conversion cost: $9,000–$23,000.

Other Startup Costs

Additional startup expenses: $7,500–$17,500.

Total Startup Investment

How Long to Profitability?

Most groomers:

• Break even within 6–12 months
• Reach full capacity in 2–3 years

Maximizing Mobile Grooming Income

Key strategies:

• Build loyal, recurring clients
• Optimize routes and schedules
• Raise prices annually
• Add high-margin services
• Control fuel, supply, and maintenance costs

Final Thoughts

Mobile grooming offers some of the highest earning potential in the pet care industry. Six-figure incomes are achievable, but success requires investment, discipline, and strong business skills.

If you’re willing to put in the effort, mobile grooming can be an extremely rewarding career—financially and personally.

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