Whether you're just starting out or looking to optimize your rates, understanding how much to charge for house cleaning is essential for profitability, competitiveness, and client satisfaction.
Setting the right prices for your house cleaning services can make or break your business, which is why we've broken out the most important factors to consider.
In this guide, we'll break down everything you need to know, including average rates, pricing models, cost factors, and tips for raising your prices without losing clients.
Here’s a snapshot of typical house cleaning rates across the U.S. in 2025:
| Type of Cleaning | Average Rate |
|---|---|
| Standard Cleaning | $60–$180 (per visit) |
| Deep Cleaning | $90-$300 |
| Move-In/Out Cleaning | $150-$500 |
| Hourly Rate | $25-$75 per hour per cleaner |
| Square Foot Rate | $0.10–$0.17 per sq. ft. |
**These averages can vary based on your location, experience, and whether you’re a solo cleaner or running a team.**
In addition, it's important to consider these averages:
| House Cleaning Prices | Average Rate |
|---|---|
| National Average | $200 |
| Minimum Cost | $60 |
| Maximum Cost | $400 |
| Average Range | $120-$280 |
When deciding how much to charge for house cleaning, there are a few different ways to structure your pricing:
Many new businesses charge an hourly rate for their services because it ensures they’re making money on every completed job. Hourly rates are ideal for new businesses because you don’t yet know your average cleaning times.
Established businesses usually avoid hourly rate pricing because you get penalized, rather than rewarded, for finishing jobs faster.
Many established businesses prefer to charge a flat rate because it’s centered around a value-based pricing concept. Plus, clients like it because they don’t have to worry about cleaners "milking the clock."
Don't consider flat rate pricing until you comfortably know your average cleaning times and have routine cleaning processes in place. New cleaning businesses can actually lose money if jobs take longer than anticipated.
As one of the least common pricing methods, some businesses opt to charge by the square foot. Keep in mind, larger buildings are usually charged less per square foot.
If you choose this method, don’t forget to account for longer cleaning times for specific surfaces. For example, a carpet may take longer to clean if there’s stain treatment or shampooing involved.
In some instances, cleaning businesses choose to charge a room rate instead of per square foot. These two pricing models are very similar and are equally favorable for large homes and commercial clients.
Package pricing is a popular pricing model for more experienced house cleaners who know their average cleaning times. By offering packages, you can minimize decision paralysis and simplify quoting.
To set profitable prices, reverse-engineer your rates from your costs:
Since every business is different, all overhead percentages will be different. However, a general rule of thumb is to keep monthly overhead at less than 35% of your monthly revenue.
To calculate hourly labor cost, combine your cleaner’s hourly wage with the percentage of revenue you spend on employee benefits. Depending on your area, this percentage will differ. However, anyone can use this formula to calculate hourly labor costs.
Don’t forget to round up your employee benefit percentage. In turn, this helps to provide an additional financial cushion for unexpected expenses and potential errors.
Also, consider implementing performance-based compensation to motivate and reward employees for putting forth their best work. Although, if you choose this form of compensation, be sure you’re complying with your local minimum wage requirements and legal requirements.
Using cleaning software, you can easily track your average cleaning times—no more manual calculations or guessing! All of the data is readily accessible with detailed reports, whenever you need it.
Although every cleaning business is different, many average between 30%-50% in profit margin.
Here are some real-world pricing scenarios:
Worried about losing clients when increasing prices? Here’s how to make it smooth:
Yes. These typically take longer and require deeper work.
It depends on your state. Check your local tax laws.
Focus on branding, trustworthiness, reviews, and value—not being the cheapest.
Yes, for recurring cleanings, referrals, or seasonal promotions.
Setting the right price for your house cleaning services doesn’t have to be a guessing game. With a solid understanding of costs, customer expectations, and the value you provide, you can price confidently—and profitably.
Use this complete guide to discover how much to charge for cleaning services so that you can maximize profits and long-term scalability in your business today!
Need help managing your pricing, scheduling, and billing? Consider using professional cleaning software to streamline your business and stay on top of your numbers.
Related: How to Raise Cleaning Prices Without Losing Clients
Originally published Sept 10, 2020 7:00 AM, updated June 25, 2025 9:53 AM CT
Tags: Business Operation, Featured Post
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