Want to know how much it costs to clean short-term rentals across major U.S. cities? Here's a quick breakdown of cleaning fees, trends, and tips for Airbnb hosts to manage costs effectively.
- National Average: $60.68 for a 1-bedroom property (Q4 2021), an 18.31% increase from the previous year.
- Most Expensive States: Connecticut ($97.50), New Jersey ($88.97), Hawaii ($83.27).
- City Highlights:
- New York City: $159 for professional cleaning (1-bedroom), highest in the U.S.
- Los Angeles: $60-75 for standard cleaning (1-bedroom), 15-20% cheaper than NYC.
- Chicago: $60-120 for standard cleaning (1-bedroom), steady year-round pricing.
- Austin: $40-90 for standard cleaning (1-bedroom), affordable but rising costs.
- Miami: $60-120 for standard cleaning (1-bedroom), impacted by beach-related wear and tear.
Quick Comparison Table
| City | 1-BR Cost (Standard) | 2-BR Cost (Standard) | Key Trends |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | $159 | $185 | Highest rates, professional services. |
| Los Angeles | $60-75 | $85-95 | Competitive market, seasonal changes. |
| Chicago | $60-120 | $120-180 | Mid-range pricing, steady year-round. |
| Austin | $40-90 | $50-130 | Affordable, fewer specialized options. |
| Miami | $60-120 | $95-180 | Coastal challenges, seasonal demand. |
Key Takeaways for Hosts:
- Cleaning costs vary by city, property size, and service type.
- Lock in long-term contracts or bundle services to save up to 25%.
- Adjust cleaning fees to reflect seasonal demand and local trends.
Read on for detailed city-specific insights and strategies to manage cleaning expenses effectively.
How to Price Airbnb Cleaning Services
1. Cleaning Costs in New York City
Short-term rental cleaning costs in NYC can vary widely depending on the type of service and the property's size. Recent data from Turno shows how cleaning fees are typically structured based on property size:
| Property Size | Professional Service (NY Home Cleaning) | Turno Average Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $159 | $65-75 |
| 2 Bedroom | $185* | $100-110 |
| 3 Bedroom | $209 | $100-110 |
*Estimated based on available data
The main factors influencing these costs are the size of the property, the service provider, and any additional features offered. Professional cleaning companies in NYC generally charge around $50 per hour and often include perks like background-checked staff and trained cleaners [1].
Some services even offer extras, such as HEPA vacuuming, at no additional charge [4]. This can be especially helpful during busy seasons when quick and efficient turnovers are critical for maximizing bookings.
To stay competitive, hosts sometimes lower cleaning fees during slower periods [5]. By understanding the pricing dynamics in NYC, hosts can strike the right balance between cost and quality, ensuring guest satisfaction without overspending.
Next, we’ll look at cleaning costs in Los Angeles to see how they measure up against NYC’s high rates.
2. Cleaning Costs in Los Angeles
Cleaning services in Los Angeles come with their own set of challenges due to the variety of property types and the city's competitive market. Here's a snapshot of typical cleaning costs in LA:
| Property Size | Average Cost Range | Additional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $60-75 | $25-35 extra |
| 2 Bedroom | $85-95 | $35-45 extra |
| 3 Bedroom | $105-120 | $45-55 extra |
*Extra fees may apply for deep cleaning, window washing, or special requests.
Cleaning costs generally increase with the size of the property. A few key factors that affect pricing include:
- Neighborhood and season: Rates can fluctuate based on local demand and seasonal trends.
- Type of cleaning: Standard cleaning is less expensive than deep cleaning or specialized services.
- Additional features: Properties with outdoor areas or multiple bathrooms often require extra work, which adds to the cost.
To manage expenses effectively, many hosts in LA choose regular cleaning contracts instead of one-time services. This not only secures better rates but also ensures consistent service quality. Professional cleaning companies often charge higher fees, but they back it up with trained and vetted staff [1].
Tips for Managing Costs
- Negotiate flat-rate or bundled packages that include services like cleaning and linen management. These deals can provide better overall value.
- Compare service providers carefully to find a balance between cost and reliability.
- Consider long-term agreements for more stable pricing and dependable service.
Los Angeles cleaning services reflect the city's higher labor costs, but with thoughtful planning, hosts can find reliable options that align with their budget. Next, we’ll take a closer look at how cleaning costs in Chicago stack up against those in LA, examining key differences in pricing and market trends.
3. Cleaning Costs in Chicago
Cleaning services for short-term rentals in Chicago are priced competitively compared to coastal cities, reflecting the local market's dynamics. Here's a quick look at typical pricing:
| Property Size | Standard Cleaning | Deep Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | $60-120 | $120-180 |
| 2 BR | $120-180 | $180-250 |
| 3 BR | $150-300 | $250-400 |
Most professional cleaners in Chicago charge about $60 per hour per cleaner [1]. If your property has additional bathrooms, expect to pay an extra $25-35 per bathroom. Chicago's competitive market keeps costs manageable while maintaining high service standards, especially when compared to pricier cities like New York or Los Angeles.
Service Options and Cost-Saving Tips
Specialized cleaning services for short-term rentals in Chicago often include:
- Tailored packages designed for vacation rentals
- Flexible scheduling to handle back-to-back bookings
- Guarantees on quality and insurance for peace of mind
- Use of professional-grade supplies and tools
Want to save on cleaning costs? Consider these strategies:
- Lock in long-term contracts or bundled service deals
- Schedule regular maintenance cleanings to avoid higher deep-cleaning fees
- Build a relationship with a trusted cleaning provider for consistent service
Chicago's cleaning market strikes a balance between affordability and quality. With competitive pricing and strong service standards, hosts can enjoy reliable cleaning without the hefty price tags seen in coastal cities.
Next, we'll look at how cleaning costs in Austin stack up against Chicago’s mix of price and quality.
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4. Cleaning Costs in Austin
Austin provides affordable cleaning services compared to cities like New York and Los Angeles, without compromising on quality. The city's cleaning market reflects its local economy and the growing need for vacation rental cleaning.
| Property Size | Standard Cleaning | Deep Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | $40-90 | $145-165 |
| 2 BR | $50-130 | $185-225 |
| 3 BR | $70-150 | $200-275 |
Market Rates and Service Options
In Texas, the typical hourly rate for cleaning services is $17.45 [7]. However, short-term rental cleaning often costs more because of the quick turnaround times and higher standards required. For single-family homes, the base cleaning cost generally ranges from $100 to $170 [7].
Property Size and Service Details
Standard cleaning covers tasks like surface cleaning, sanitizing, linen changes, and floor care. Costs rise with the size of the property and additional features, but many companies offer discounts or packages for recurring services.
Tips to Manage Cleaning Costs
Here are a few ways to keep cleaning expenses under control in Austin:
- Schedule cleanings during non-peak times to save money.
- Stick to a regular cleaning schedule to avoid the need for deep cleaning.
- Combine cleaning and laundry services for potential discounts.
- Build long-term relationships with local cleaning providers for better rates.
Austin's cleaning market strikes a balance between affordability and professionalism, making it easier for hosts to maintain high standards while staying within budget. Next, we'll take a look at how cleaning costs in Miami compare in this competitive landscape.
5. Cleaning Costs in Miami
Miami's short-term rental cleaning market mirrors its bustling tourism scene and the unique challenges of its coastal environment. Factors like high humidity, constant beach traffic, and seasonal demand shifts play a big role in shaping cleaning costs.
| Property Size | Standard Cleaning | Deep Cleaning |
|---|---|---|
| Studio/1 BR | $60-120 | $180-240 |
| 2 BR | $95-180 | $220-300 |
| 3 BR | $150-300 | $280-400 |
Cleaning prices in Miami have seen a notable jump, with costs for 1-bedroom properties increasing by 18.31% between Q4 2020 and Q4 2021 [3]. Larger properties naturally cost more, with 2-bedroom cleanings ranging from $95 to $180, and 3-bedroom homes reaching up to $300 or more [6][4].
Cost Management Strategies
To keep cleaning expenses under control in Miami's competitive market, try these tips:
- Lock in regular cleaning schedules to secure better pricing.
- Combine standard cleaning with extra services to take advantage of package deals.
- Schedule cleanings during off-peak times when rates may be more flexible.
- Work with cleaning companies that specialize in vacation rentals for faster, more efficient turnovers.
Additional Considerations
Miami's proximity to the beach and its humid climate often mean more frequent cleanings are needed, especially to deal with sand, salt air, and moisture. While Miami's cleaning costs are comparable to cities like Los Angeles, they remain more affordable than New York City, where cleaning a 1-bedroom property can cost as much as $159 [4].
With these factors in mind, Miami's cleaning costs are shaped by its coastal location and thriving tourism industry. Next, we’ll explore how cleaning expenses differ across cities and what that means for short-term rental hosts.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Cleaning Costs by City
Short-term rental cleaning costs can vary widely depending on the city. Each location has its own set of perks and challenges, which can influence how hosts manage their cleaning budgets and operations.
| City | Advantages | Disadvantages | Notable Trends |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City | - Access to top-tier professional services - Reliable scheduling for turnovers - Skilled vacation rental cleaners |
- Highest cleaning costs in the U.S. - Surge pricing during busy seasons - Limited room for price negotiation |
1-bedroom properties average $159, with costs continuing to rise [4] |
| Los Angeles | - Competitive market for service providers - Flexible scheduling options - Package deals available |
- Higher prices in tourist-heavy areas - Seasonal price changes - Traffic delays affecting service timing |
Cleaning costs are 15-20% lower than NYC for similar properties [6] |
| Chicago | - More affordable than coastal cities - Prices remain steady year-round - Strong competition among providers |
- Weather-related cleaning difficulties - Limited availability during big events - Higher rates in winter |
Consistent mid-range pricing compared to national averages [2] |
| Austin | - Expanding cleaning service market - Reasonable pricing - Adoption of tech-based solutions |
- Few specialized providers - Rising costs due to market growth - Availability issues in peak seasons |
Costs steadily increasing, following statewide trends [3] |
| Miami | - Plenty of service providers - Package pricing options available - Year-round service accessibility |
- Challenges from humidity - Beach-related wear and tear - Big seasonal price swings |
18.31% jump in 1-bedroom cleaning costs from Q4 2020 to 2021 [3] |
Market Impact and Service Quality
City-specific cleaning costs can greatly influence a host's operations. For example, while NYC offers reliable but expensive services, Austin stands out for its lower costs, albeit with fewer specialized options. Generally, higher-priced markets tend to provide more thorough services, but newer markets are proving that competitive pricing doesn't always mean sacrificing quality.
Property Size and Costs
Cleaning expenses naturally rise with property size. Nationally, the average cost for cleaning a 1-bedroom property is $60.68, with larger homes incurring higher fees [3]. This trend holds true across all cities, though actual rates depend on the local market.
Regional Pricing Differences
Cleaning costs vary significantly by region, driven by factors like service availability, local demand, and seasonal trends. Hosts should weigh these variables when planning their budgets and selecting providers.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how cleaning costs vary across major U.S. cities can help short-term rental hosts run their operations more efficiently and stay profitable. Regional differences play a big role in shaping hosting expenses and potential earnings.
City-Specific Trends
Cleaning costs often mirror local labor markets and the availability of services. Coastal cities tend to have higher rates, while newer markets may offer lower prices without sacrificing service quality.
Smart Ways to Cut Costs
| Strategy | How It Works | Savings Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Adjust Scheduling & Build Contracts | Schedule cleanings during slower periods and lock in long-term agreements | Save 15-20% |
| Bundle Services | Combine tasks like cleaning, laundry, and restocking | Save up to 25% |
What’s Changing in the Industry?
Tech-driven cleaning platforms are transforming the way services are delivered, especially in expensive markets where efficiency matters most. With cleaning costs climbing, hosts need to rethink their pricing strategies to stay ahead.
Mark O'Neill, founder of Find Airbnb Cleaning Services, says, "Building strong relationships with reliable cleaners is key to long-term value."
Proven Tactics for High-Cost Areas
In pricier places like NYC, some strategies have shown to work well:
- Regularly check and compare local cleaning rates
- Build a network of trusted service providers
- Adjust cleaning fees to match seasonal demand
- Keep an eye on industry trends to prepare for cost shifts
The winning formula is to understand your market while staying adaptable. By keeping up with local trends and planning ahead, hosts can manage rising cleaning costs while delivering great guest experiences. This balance ensures competitive pricing and reliable service - both critical for long-term success in short-term rentals.
FAQs
What is the going rate for cleaning an Airbnb?
Airbnb cleaning costs depend on location and property size, with rates varying across markets. Here's an overview of typical expenses:
| Property Type | National Average (Q4 2021) | Year-over-Year Increase |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom | $60.68 | 18.31% |
| 2-Bedroom | $78.58 | 12.55% |
| 3-Bedroom | $106.49 | 6.32% |
State averages also differ significantly. For example, Connecticut has the highest average at $97.50, followed by New Jersey ($88.97) and Hawaii ($83.27). On the lower end, Kentucky averages $38.52, with Wisconsin at $41.50 and Nevada at $42.32 [3].
Professional cleaning services typically cost more but offer reliability and thorough work. In New York City, professional cleaners charge between $60-90 per hour, while independent cleaners may charge $30-40 per hour [1].
Deep cleaning services, which include tasks like HEPA vacuuming or steam cleaning, often add $20-50 to the standard rate. These additional services are particularly common in competitive markets [4].
For more detailed insights into rates in specific cities or regions, check earlier sections of this article. Knowing these costs can help hosts plan their budgets and select the best cleaning options for their properties.
