Keeping a clean home is a constant challenge, especially with a busy lifestyle. Between work, family, and everything else on your plate, finding the time and energy to scrub floors, dust surfaces, and clean bathrooms can feel overwhelming. You may be considering hiring a professional cleaning services, but one big question stands in your way: How much will it cost?
The price of cleaning services depends on several factors, including the size of your home, its location, the level of cleaning required, and how often you need it done.
To give you a rough idea, typical cleaning costs are as follows:
- Standard cleaning can range from $100 to $250, depending on the size and frequency.
- Deep cleaning services usually cost between $200 and $500, as they involve more detailed tasks.
- Move-in/move-out cleaning typically falls between $300 and $600 due to the extra effort involved in preparing a home for new occupants.
- Post-construction cleaning can be more expensive, ranging from $400 to $800, as it requires specialized equipment and cleaning techniques.
While there is no universal pricing structure, understanding the factors that affect the cost can help you estimate the price more accurately. In this guide, we’ll explain what influences these prices and help you make the best decision for your cleaning needs.
What Determines the Cost of House Cleaning Services?
The cost of hiring a house cleaning service depends on several key factors. Understanding these variables will help you get a more accurate estimate and ensure you’re not overpaying for services. Here are the main factors that influence the pricing:
- Home Size: The larger your home, the more expensive it will be to clean. Square footage is often a primary factor in determining cost, as a bigger space requires more time and effort to clean. Additionally, homes with more rooms (especially bathrooms and kitchens) tend to cost more to clean due to the added complexity of these areas.
- Type of Cleaning Service: Different types of cleaning services come with varying costs. Standard cleaning focuses on basic tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and wiping down surfaces, while deep cleaning involves more intensive tasks such as scrubbing floors, cleaning baseboards, and washing windows. Specialized services like move-out cleaning or post-construction cleanup are often more expensive due to the extra labor and tools required.
- Location and Cost of Living: Prices can vary based on where you live. In urban areas with a higher cost of living, you might pay more for house cleaning services than in rural locations. Additionally, local competition and demand for cleaning services also influence prices.
- Cleaning Frequency: The more often you need cleaning services, the less you’ll likely pay per visit. Recurring services such as weekly or bi-weekly cleaning are often priced at a discount compared to one-time cleanings. Many companies offer packages or subscription-based pricing for ongoing service.
- Specialized Services and Add-ons: If you’re requesting additional services like carpet cleaning, window washing, or upholstery care, these will increase the overall cost of the service. Specialized services often require extra time, special equipment, or particular expertise, all of which come at a higher price.
- Number of Cleaners Sent: Some companies will send multiple cleaners to expedite the process. The more cleaners they send, the faster the job will get done, but this can also raise the overall cost.
Average House Cleaning Rates by Type
The cost of house cleaning varies depending on the type of service you need. Standard cleaning covers basic tasks like dusting, vacuuming, and surface wiping. Deep cleaning goes further, addressing areas that aren’t regularly cleaned, such as baseboards, windows, and appliances. Move-out or move-in cleaning involves more detailed work to prepare a home for new tenants or owners. Post-construction cleaning requires specialized equipment to remove dust, debris, and leftover materials from a renovation. Additionally, specialized services like carpet or window cleaning add specific attention to targeted areas of your home.
Standard House Cleaning Costs
House cleaning services typically charge by the hour, per room, or per square foot. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for a standard cleaning service:
- Hourly Rates: On average, house cleaning services charge between $25 to $50 per hour. The total cost will depend on the number of hours required to clean your home. Larger homes or homes that require more work may take longer, increasing the total price.
- Flat Rates: Many cleaning services also offer flat-rate pricing, where the cost is fixed regardless of the time it takes. Flat-rate pricing typically ranges from $100 to $400 for a standard cleaning, depending on the home size and region.
- Per Square Foot: For larger homes, per square foot pricing can be a good option. Expect to pay $0.10 to $0.30 per square foot for basic cleaning. For example, if your home is 2,000 square feet, you might pay anywhere from $200 to $600 for a standard cleaning.
- Per Room Rates: Some cleaning companies charge per room, with prices ranging from $25 to $75 per room. Larger rooms or rooms that require more effort to clean (like kitchens and bathrooms) may cost more.
Deep Cleaning Costs
Deep cleaning is a more thorough type of cleaning that typically costs more than a standard cleaning. Here’s what you can expect to pay:
- Average Deep Cleaning Price: The cost for deep cleaning services ranges from $150 to $500, depending on the size of your home and its condition. This type of cleaning includes tasks like washing baseboards, deep cleaning carpets, scrubbing walls, and washing windows, which can take several hours longer than a standard cleaning.
- Move-Out/Move-In Cleaning Prices: Move-out or move-in cleaning typically requires additional work, especially if the home has not been cleaned for a while. The cost usually ranges from $200 to $600 for a 1,000 to 2,000-square-foot home.
Post-Construction or Renovation Cleanup Cost
After a renovation or construction project, cleaning up the mess is no small task. Post-construction cleaning requires removal of debris, dust, and leftover materials. This can cost anywhere from $300 to $700 depending on the size and scope of the job.
Pricing Models for House Cleaning Services
House cleaning services offer several pricing models to fit different needs. Hourly rate pricing charges based on the time spent cleaning. Flat-rate pricing offers a fixed price for a set service, regardless of time. Per square foot pricing is common for larger homes, while per room pricing is often used for smaller spaces or specific tasks. Each model provides flexibility, allowing you to choose what best suits your home and cleaning requirements.
Hourly Rate Pricing
Hourly rate pricing is the most common model used by house cleaning services. Rates can vary, but you can expect to pay between $25 and $50 per hour. This is ideal for homes where the cleaning time is relatively predictable. For example:
- Small homes (1-2 bedrooms): 1-2 hours of cleaning time, costing approximately $25 to $100.
- Medium homes (3-4 bedrooms): 2-3 hours, costing approximately $50 to $150.
- Large homes (5+ bedrooms): 3-5 hours, costing approximately $100 to $250.
Hourly pricing tends to be best for one-time cleanings or homes where the scope of work is relatively standard and predictable.
Flat Rate Pricing
Flat rate pricing is another popular model. With this option, you agree on a set price for the cleaning service regardless of the time it takes. Flat rates are often used for standard cleaning services, and the price usually falls between $100 and $400 for an average home. This pricing model is simple and eliminates the need for tracking hours.
Per Square Foot Pricing
For larger homes or those with many rooms, per square foot pricing can be a good option. This pricing model is based on the total area of your home, typically ranging from $0.10 to $0.30 per square foot. For example:
- A 1,000-square-foot home: $100 to $300
- A 2,000-square-foot home: $200 to $600
This model works well when you’re looking for a more consistent pricing structure, especially if you’re dealing with a home of varying shapes and room layouts.
Per Room Pricing
If your home has many rooms, especially smaller ones, per room pricing can also be an effective way to estimate costs. Rates typically range from $25 to $75 per room. Rooms that are more difficult to clean (e.g., kitchens, bathrooms) may be priced higher due to the additional time and effort required.
Factors That Influence the Cost of House Cleaning
Understanding what drives cleaning costs helps you make smarter decisions and ensures you get the best value for your money. Below are the most significant factors that affect how much you’ll pay for a professional home cleaning service.
Location & Cost of Living
Where you live plays a huge role in determining cleaning service prices. Urban and high-cost-of-living areas like New York City, San Francisco, or Los Angeles typically have higher cleaning rates than suburban or rural areas.
In large cities, hourly rates often start around $40–$70 per hour, while in smaller towns, rates may range from $25–$40 per hour.
This difference reflects not just labor costs but also transportation expenses, insurance, and the general cost of running a business in that location.
Size of Your Home
The size of your home directly impacts the cleaning cost. A larger home naturally takes longer to clean and requires more effort. Most companies base their rates on square footage or the number of rooms.
Here’s a general cost estimate based on home size:
| Home Size (Square Feet) | Average Cost (Standard Cleaning) | Average Cost (Deep Cleaning) |
| 1,000 sq. ft. | $100–$200 | $150–$300 |
| 2,000 sq. ft. | $200–$400 | $300–$500 |
| 3,000 sq. ft. | $300–$500 | $400–$700 |
Larger homes with multiple floors or complex layouts may also require additional cleaning time, particularly if there are staircases, balconies, or high ceilings involved.
Frequency of Cleaning Service
How often you schedule cleanings can significantly impact your overall cost. Most cleaning companies offer discounted rates for recurring appointments.
For instance:
- One-time cleaning: Full price, often $150–$400 depending on home size.
- Weekly cleaning: 15–25% discount.
- Biweekly cleaning: 10–20% discount.
- Monthly cleaning: 5–10% discount.
Regular cleaning keeps your home in good shape and reduces the workload each visit, saving both time and money in the long run.
Number of Cleaners Sent
Most cleaning services send a team of two or more cleaners for efficiency. While this might seem more expensive, it usually reduces the total time spent in your home.
For example, two cleaners working together for two hours might cost $160 ($40/hour each) but would complete the same job that one cleaner might take four hours to do for $200 ($50/hour).
Therefore, the number of cleaners doesn’t always mean higher costs, it can improve efficiency and value.
Cleaning Type
The level of cleaning service you choose is a major cost factor.
- Standard cleaning covers surface-level tasks such as vacuuming, mopping, dusting, and bathroom sanitizing.
- Deep cleaning involves more detailed tasks such as scrubbing grout, cleaning baseboards, and removing built-up grime.
- Move-out cleaning is usually the most expensive as it involves cleaning inside cabinets, drawers, and appliances and sometimes repairing minor scuffs or marks.
Here’s a quick price comparison:
| Cleaning Type | Average Price Range | Frequency |
| Standard Cleaning | $100–$250 | Weekly / Biweekly |
| Deep Cleaning | $200–$500 | Every 3–6 months |
| Move-out Cleaning | $300–$600 | One-time |
| Post-Construction Cleaning | $400–$800 | One-time |
Condition of the Property
A cluttered or particularly dirty home takes longer to clean, which increases labor time and total cost. If cleaners must spend extra time organizing before they can clean, they may charge an additional $25–$50 per hour. Homes that haven’t been cleaned in a while may require a deep cleaning before being maintained regularly.
Additional Services & Add-Ons
Many homeowners opt for extra services to complement their standard cleaning. These add-ons can make your home sparkle but do increase the price.
Common additional services include:
| Add-On Service | Average Cost |
| Carpet Cleaning | $75–$150 per room |
| Window Cleaning | $100–$200 total |
| Oven Cleaning | $25–$50 |
| Refrigerator Cleaning | $25–$40 |
| Upholstery Cleaning | $80–$150 |
| Pet Stain & Odor Removal | $50–$100 |
| Laundry or Dishwashing | $15–$30 extra per load |
Most companies offer package deals for these services, so it’s always worth asking for a bundled rate if you’re ordering multiple extras.
How to Estimate Your House Cleaning Costs
If you’d like to estimate your cleaning cost before calling a professional, you can use these steps to get a realistic figure.
Step 1: Calculate Based on Square Footage
Start by calculating your home’s size. Multiply the square footage by the average rate per square foot.
For example, if the rate is $0.20 per square foot and your home is 2,000 sq. ft., your estimated cost would be $400 for a standard cleaning.
Step 2: Consider Cleaning Frequency
If you plan to book recurring services, apply the discount offered by most companies.
For instance, if the initial deep cleaning costs $400, a biweekly cleaning might be discounted to $320–$350.
Step 3: Add Additional Services and Custom Requests
Include costs for any extras like windows, carpets, or appliances. Let’s say you add:
- Window cleaning ($150)
- Oven cleaning ($40)
- Carpet cleaning ($120)
That’s an additional $310, bringing your total to $710 for a full service.
Step 4: Factor in Special Discounts or Offers
Check for promotions or new customer discounts. Many companies offer 10–20% off first-time cleanings, or even loyalty programs for regular clients.
If your total is $710, and you get a 15% discount, your final cost drops to $603.50 a nice savings for quality service.
Tips for Saving Money on House Cleaning
You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your home spotless. Here are some smart ways to lower your cleaning expenses without sacrificing quality.
Look for Special Offers or Discounts
Many cleaning services run promotions, especially for first-time customers or during slower months. Signing up for newsletters or checking social media can help you catch these deals early.
Schedule Regular Cleaning
Routine cleaning prevents buildup of dirt and grime, which means shorter sessions and less cost. Over time, weekly or biweekly services can save you more than one-time deep cleans.
Prepare Your Home Before the Cleaner Arrives
Tidying up your home before the cleaner arrives, like picking up toys, clothes, or clutter, can reduce cleaning time and save you money. The less time they spend organizing, the more time they can spend actually cleaning.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Don’t accept the first estimate you receive. Reach out to at least three local cleaning companies for quotes. Comparing prices and services helps you understand market rates and ensures you get the best value.
Bundle Services
If you need multiple services (like window and carpet cleaning), ask if the company offers package pricing. Bundles can often save 10–20% compared to individual service costs.
Pro Tip: Avoid extremely low-priced cleaners, this may indicate unlicensed or uninsured services. Always prioritize quality and safety over rock-bottom pricing.
Choosing the Right Cleaning Service
Selecting the right cleaning company is about more than just price, it’s about trust, consistency, and quality.
How to Find a Reliable House Cleaning Service
Follow these steps to find a service that meets your expectations:
- Research Local Cleaners – Read reviews on Google, Yelp, or Facebook to check reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Check for Insurance and Bonding – Ensure the company is insured in case of accidents or damages.
- Ask for References and Reviews – A reputable cleaner should be able to provide past customer feedback.
- Background Checks on Cleaners – Confirm the company screens employees for your safety.
- Get Written Estimates – Always get quotes in writing to avoid unexpected charges.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Cleaner
- What cleaning supplies and products do you use?
- Are your cleaners insured and bonded?
- Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?
- Can I request the same cleaner for every visit?
- What happens if I need to cancel or reschedule?
Is Hiring a Professional House Cleaner Worth It?
Hiring a professional cleaning service can be a game changer, especially if you have a busy lifestyle, large family, or just want to ensure your home is cleaned to a high standard. Here are several reasons why hiring professionals might be a smart decision for you.
Time-Saving Benefits
One of the most significant advantages of hiring a professional house cleaner is the amount of time you save. Instead of spending hours dusting, scrubbing, and washing, you can use that time for work, leisure, or family. With today’s hectic schedules, professional cleaners can help maintain your home without interrupting your daily life.
By leaving the cleaning to experts, you can ensure that your home stays consistently clean without investing precious hours every week or month.
Expertise & Thoroughness
Professional cleaners come with extensive training and experience, which means they can clean your home more efficiently and thoroughly than most DIY cleaning. They know which products work best for different surfaces and how to remove even the most stubborn stains.
Their attention to detail and high-quality cleaning standards ensure that no area is overlooked, from the corners of your bathrooms to the baseboards in your living room. Experts can even spot and treat potential issues like mold, mildew, and allergens, which often go unnoticed during casual cleaning.
Health Benefits
Cleaning professionals use specialized tools, products, and techniques that can significantly improve your home’s air quality and hygiene. For example, they can:
- Eliminate dust and allergens: Professional cleaners use HEPA filters or high-efficiency vacuums that can trap allergens, dust, and pollen, making your home a healthier place for people with allergies.
- Sanitize high-touch areas: Professional services pay attention to germ-heavy areas like doorknobs, light switches, and kitchen counters, reducing the spread of bacteria and viruses.
- Prevent mold and mildew: Deep cleaning and proper maintenance can help prevent moisture buildup and mold growth, which can lead to health issues over time.
A cleaner home is not just visually pleasing, it’s also safer and healthier for your family.
Hygiene & Safety
In addition to improving the overall health of your home, professional cleaners ensure that all cleaning tasks are carried out with safety in mind. They use cleaning products that are both effective and safe for the environment, ensuring that toxic chemicals are avoided. Furthermore, professional cleaners know how to use cleaning tools safely, preventing potential accidents like slips, falls, or furniture damage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a House Cleaner
When hiring a professional cleaner, it’s essential to avoid some common pitfalls that can lead to disappointment or financial surprises. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
Underestimating Cleaning Time and Scope
When planning for cleaning services, don’t underestimate how long it might take. The size of your home, its condition, and the type of service required all influence cleaning time. Be upfront with the service provider about your home’s specifics to get a more accurate estimate.
For example, a large home with high ceilings, deep carpets, or multiple bathrooms may require a team of cleaners and several hours of work. Failing to set realistic expectations could lead to an incomplete or rushed job.
Not Asking About Hidden Fees
Some cleaning companies may charge hidden fees that aren’t immediately obvious. These might include travel charges, fees for special cleaning products, or surcharges for particularly tough jobs. Always request a breakdown of the total cost and ask if there are any additional fees before you agree to the service.
Choosing Based on Price Alone
While cost is an important factor, choosing the cheapest cleaning service isn’t always the best option. Often, cheaper services may cut corners or lack proper insurance and bonding. For your peace of mind and quality assurance, it’s better to choose a reputable service that provides a balance of fair pricing and quality cleaning.
It’s also worth noting that professional cleaning services often come with insurance that covers any potential damage during the cleaning process. Always check if the company is fully insured.
Not Setting Clear Expectations
Clear communication is crucial when hiring a cleaning service. If you have specific requirements, like areas that need extra attention or sensitive items that shouldn’t be touched, make sure to communicate these in advance. By setting expectations early on, you can avoid misunderstandings and ensure you’re satisfied with the final results.
Ready to Get Your Home Cleaned?
Finding the right cleaning service that fits your needs and budget is easier than ever. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional team to keep your home spotless, look no further than RMS Cleaning. We offer a variety of flexible cleaning options to suit any home and budget, with transparent pricing and exceptional service.
Visit RMS Cleaning today to schedule your cleaning. Let us take care of the mess so you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier home without the stress.
FAQs
How much does a one-time cleaning cost for a 3-bedroom house?
On average, a one-time cleaning for a 3-bedroom home can cost between $150 to $350. The final price depends on factors like the home’s size, condition, and cleaning type.
What is the average cost for deep cleaning a house?
Deep cleaning typically ranges from $200 to $500 for a standard-sized home, depending on its condition and the extent of cleaning required.
How much should I tip a house cleaner?
Tipping is optional but appreciated. A common practice is to tip 10-20% of the cleaning cost. For example, if your cleaning costs $250, a tip of $25 to $50 would be appropriate.
Do cleaning services charge by the hour or by the square foot?
It varies by company and service type. Some charge by the hour ($25–$50 per hour), while others charge by the square foot ($0.10 to $0.30 per sq. ft.). It’s best to ask for a detailed quote based on your specific needs.
What factors can make house cleaning prices higher?
Factors like the size of your home, the condition of your home, the type of cleaning requested (e.g., deep cleaning), and any additional services (e.g., carpet or window cleaning) can all increase the price.
