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PerplexityAverage house cleaning costs in 2023
The cost of hiring a professional cleaner or determining how much to charge for a house cleaning depends on several variables, but let’s start with some baseline figures. According to recent data, the average cost of house cleaning in the United States ranges between $90 and $150 per visit for a standard cleaning of a typical home. However, these costs can fluctuate based on the specifics of the job and location.
National average costs by home size
One of the most significant factors in determining cleaning costs is the size of the home. Below is a table summarizing average costs based on the number of bedrooms:
| Home Size (Bedrooms) | Average Cost (Standard Cleaning) | Average Cost (Deep Cleaning) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $75 – $100 | $125 – $200 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $100 – $130 | $150 – $250 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $130 – $180 | $200 – $300 |
| 4+ Bedrooms | $180 – $250+ | $300 – $400+ |
For example, if you’re wondering how much to charge for cleaning a 3 bedroom house, the national average for a standard cleaning typically falls between $130 and $180 per visit. These figures are based on industry surveys and data from platforms like Angi and HomeAdvisor.
Hourly rates vs. Flat rates
Another pricing model to consider is whether cleaners charge by the hour or a flat rate. Hourly rates typically range from $25 to $50 per hour per cleaner, while flat rates are often based on square footage or the number of rooms. If you’re a cleaner determining how much to charge for cleaning a house, understanding the pros and cons of these models can help you set competitive prices.
- Hourly Rates: Best for jobs where the scope isn’t clear or when additional tasks might arise.
- Flat Rates: Preferred by clients for predictability, often based on home size or specific tasks.
Average Cleaning Cost for 3-Bedroom Apartments by State
Factors that influence house cleaning costs
The cost of cleaning a home isn’t a one-size-fits-all figure. Several variables can significantly impact the final price. Below, we explore the most common factors to consider whether you’re hiring a cleaner or deciding how much to charge for a deep house cleaning.
1. Location and regional differences
Where you live plays a significant role in house cleaning costs. Urban areas with a higher cost of living, such as New York or San Francisco, often have higher cleaning rates ($150–$250 per visit) compared to rural areas ($80–$120 per visit). If you’re setting prices, research local competitors to ensure you’re aligned with market expectations.
2. Home size and layout
As mentioned earlier, the size of the home—measured in square footage or number of bedrooms – directly impacts pricing. Larger homes or those with complex layouts (e.g., multiple stories, open floor plans) require more time and effort, increasing costs.
3. Frequency of cleaning
Regular cleaning services (weekly or bi-weekly) often come at a discounted rate compared to one-time cleanings. For example, a recurring cleaning for a 3-bedroom house might cost $120 per visit, while a one-off service could be $150–$180. Cleaners may offer discounts for consistent clients to encourage long-term contracts.
4. Condition of the home
Homes that haven’t been cleaned in a while or have significant clutter, pet hair, or stains will require more time and effort, driving up costs. This is especially relevant when considering how much to charge for deep cleaning a house, as deep cleanings often address neglected areas like baseboards, behind appliances, and inside cabinets.
5. Additional services
Standard cleaning typically includes dusting, vacuuming, mopping, and bathroom/kitchen cleaning. However, add-ons like window washing, carpet cleaning, or laundry can increase the price by $20–$100 per task. Be clear about what’s included when quoting or hiring for a job.
Standard cleaning vs. deep cleaning costs
Not all cleaning services are created equal. Understanding the difference between standard and deep cleaning is crucial when budgeting or deciding how much to charge for a deep house cleaning.
What’s included in standard cleaning?
Standard cleaning focuses on maintaining a home’s general cleanliness. It typically includes:
- Dusting surfaces
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Cleaning bathrooms (toilet, sink, shower)
- Wiping down kitchen counters and appliances
- Taking out trash
Costs for standard cleaning are lower, averaging $90–$150 for a medium-sized home.
What’s included in deep cleaning?
Deep cleaning goes beyond surface-level tasks and tackles areas often overlooked in regular cleanings. Services may include:
- Cleaning baseboards and door frames
- Scrubbing grout and tile
- Cleaning inside ovens, fridges, and cabinets
- Dusting ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Wiping down walls or spot-cleaning
Because of the additional time and effort, deep cleaning costs are higher, often ranging from $200 to $400 for a 3-bedroom home. If you’re curious about how much to charge for deep cleaning a house, factor in the extra labor and supplies needed for these intensive tasks.
Pricing tips for cleaning businesses
If you’re running a cleaning business or freelancing, setting the right price is critical to attracting clients while ensuring profitability. Here are some actionable tips to help you decide how much to charge for cleaning a house or specific services.
1. Research local rates
Start by researching what other cleaners in your area charge. Platforms like Thumbtack can provide insight into local pricing trends. Aim to be competitive but don’t undervalue your services—consider your experience and quality of work.
2. Factor in overhead costs
Don’t forget to account for supplies, transportation, insurance, and labor if you have a team. For instance, if a job requires specialized cleaning products for a deep clean, ensure your pricing reflects these costs.
3. Offer package deals
Encourage repeat business by offering discounts for recurring services or bundling standard and deep cleanings. For example, you might charge $150 for a one-time cleaning of a 3-bedroom home but offer a weekly rate of $120 per visit with a contract.
4. Be transparent
Clearly communicate what’s included in your pricing. If a deep cleaning costs more, explain why (e.g., additional tasks or time). Transparency builds trust with clients and reduces misunderstandings.
What homeowners should expect to pay
If you’re hiring a cleaner, understanding the breakdown of costs can help you budget effectively and avoid overpaying. Below are some key considerations to keep in mind.
1. Get multiple quotes
Don’t settle for the first cleaner you find. Request quotes from at least three providers to compare rates and services. This is especially important for larger jobs like deep cleanings or if you’re wondering how much to charge for cleaning a 3 bedroom house as a benchmark for hiring.
2. Clarify what’s included
Ensure you understand what tasks are covered in the price. If you need extras like carpet cleaning or window washing, ask if they’re included or come at an additional cost.
3. Consider frequency
If your budget is tight, opt for bi-weekly or monthly cleanings instead of weekly services to reduce costs. Many companies offer discounts for recurring appointments.
Additional costs and hidden fees to watch for
While most cleaning services provide upfront pricing, there can be unexpected costs. Here are a few to be aware of:
- Travel Fees: Some cleaners charge extra for travel if you’re outside their service area.
- Specialty Cleaning: Tasks like mold removal or post-construction cleaning often require specialized equipment and higher rates.
- Emergency or Same-Day Services: Last-minute bookings may come with a premium fee.
- Supplies: If a cleaner uses their own supplies (instead of yours), they might add a small fee to cover costs.
Always ask for a detailed breakdown of the quote to avoid surprises.
Conclusion: making sense of house cleaning costs
Understanding house cleaning costs, whether you’re a homeowner hiring a professional or a cleaner setting your rates, requires a grasp of various factors like home size, location, and service type. From standard cleanings averaging $90–$150 to deep cleanings that can cost $200–$400, pricing is rarely straightforward. For those determining how much to charge for cleaning a house or specific tasks like deep cleaning, balancing competitiveness with profitability is key. For homeowners, getting multiple quotes and clarifying service details can ensure you’re getting value for your money.
As the demand for cleaning services continues to grow, staying informed about market trends and regional differences will be crucial. Whether you’re budgeting for a cleaner or building a pricing model for your business, use this guide as a starting point to navigate the world of house cleaning costs with confidence. Have additional questions or want to dive deeper? Check out resources like ISSA for industry updates and professional standards.
Frequently asked questions
Individual cleaners typically charge 15-25% less than established cleaning companies, with average rates of $20-40 per hour compared to $25-50 per hour for companies.
When dealing with non-standard home layouts or specialty rooms, cleaning costs often require custom estimates rather than flat-rate pricing. In general, you should begin with a base rate for the overall square footage, then add surcharges for rooms that demand additional time, supplies, or expertise.
Steps to Estimate Cleaning Costs:
- Start with the Square Footage
Most cleaning services charge based on size. A standard range is $0.10 to $0.30 per square foot for standard cleaning, and $0.20 to $0.50 for deep or specialty cleaning. - Identify Specialty Areas
These might include:- Home gyms
- Home theaters
- Wine cellars
- Libraries with delicate surfaces
- Sunrooms or enclosed patios
- Finished basements or attics
These spaces may require extra attention, tools, or care — increasing the price.
- Add Room-Based Fees
Some companies charge additional fixed fees for high-effort areas:- Heavy appliance degreasing: +$30–$50
- Pet hair removal: +$25–$60
- Hard-to-reach or vaulted ceilings: +$50–$100
- Glass wall or large window cleaning: +$2–$5 per pane
- Consult the Provider Directly
For unusual layouts — such as split-level homes, multi-wing layouts, or converted commercial spaces — it’s best to request an in-person or video-based walk-through for a precise quote.
Bottom Line:
If your home deviates from a standard floor plan, anticipate additional charges of 10–30% above base pricing, especially if your layout adds significant time or complexity.
The cleaning industry is evolving with several pricing model trends emerging in 2022-2023.
House cleaning costs have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic began.
Move-in or move-out cleaning services are typically more thorough than regular cleanings, and prices generally range from 1.5 to 2 times the cost of a standard cleaning. This means you can expect to pay anywhere between $150 and $500 or more, depending on the size of your home, the level of cleaning required, and your location.
Typical Price Ranges:
-
1-bedroom apartment: $150 – $250
-
2-bedroom home: $200 – $300
-
3-bedroom home: $250 – $400
-
4+ bedrooms: $350 – $600+
While tipping is not mandatory for house cleaners, it’s becoming increasingly common, with approximately 55% of clients providing tips according to a 2022 industry survey.
