If you're looking into professional cleaning services in NYC, you're probably wondering whether the price fits your budget and what actually drives the cost. The short answer: most apartments run between $150 and $250 per visit, though that range shifts based on your home's size, the type of cleaning you need, and a few NYC-specific factors.

This guide breaks down exactly what you'll pay for different apartment sizes and service types, explains why NYC prices run higher than other cities, and shows you how to get the best value without compromising on quality.

Average cleaning service costs in NYC

Professional cleaning services in NYC typically cost between $100 and $400+ per visit, with most apartments falling in the $150 to $250 range. The price you'll pay depends primarily on your home's size and the type of cleaning you book.

Here's what drives that range. A studio apartment cleaning runs cheaper than a three-bedroom house, and a standard maintenance clean costs less than a deep clean that tackles baseboards and inside cabinets. Your building's specific requirements can also add to the final price.

Studio apartments

Studio apartments usually cost between $100 and $150 for a standard cleaning. Because these spaces sit under 600 square feet, cleaners can finish the job in less time with fewer supplies.

One-bedroom apartments

One-bedroom apartments generally run from $120 to $180 for standard cleaning. This is the most common apartment size in NYC, so most cleaning companies have established pricing for this exact layout.

Two-bedroom apartments

Two-bedroom apartments typically range from $150 to $250 for standard cleaning. The extra bedroom and bathroom add square footage and cleaning time, which naturally increases the price.

Three-bedroom apartments and larger

Three-bedroom apartments and houses start around $200 and can exceed $400 depending on total square footage and bathroom count. Larger homes take more time to clean thoroughly, and some companies send two cleaners to finish the job efficiently.

Cleaning costs by service type

The type of cleaning you choose affects the price just as much as your home's size. A maintenance clean focuses on routine upkeep, while a deep clean addresses areas you might not touch every week.

Standard cleaning

Standard cleaning covers the routine tasks that keep a home tidy: vacuuming, mopping, dusting surfaces, scrubbing bathrooms, and wiping down the kitchen. This service works best for homes that get cleaned regularly, which is why it's priced at the baseline rates I mentioned earlier. Think of it as maintaining what's already clean rather than tackling months of buildup.

Deep cleaning

Deep cleaning goes beyond the surface. Cleaners scrub baseboards, wipe down walls, clean inside cabinets, and address spots that standard cleanings skip. Expect to pay 50 to 100% more than standard rates, with prices ranging from $200 to $500+ based on home size. Most people book a deep clean for their first service or as a seasonal refresh before switching to regular maintenance visits.

Move-in and move-out cleaning

Move-in and move-out cleanings tackle empty apartments from top to bottom, often meeting landlord requirements for security deposit returns. These services typically cost 20 to 50% more than standard cleanings because they're more thorough and time-intensive. Prices usually fall between $150 and $450 depending on apartment size.

Post-construction cleaning

Post-construction cleaning addresses dust, debris, paint splatters, and residue left after renovations. This specialized service is usually the most expensive option, often costing $300 to $600+ for an average apartment. The work requires specific techniques and extra time to handle construction-related mess properly.

Cleaning prices per square foot in NYC

Some cleaning services price by square footage rather than bedroom count, typically charging $0.10 to $0.30 per square foot for standard cleaning. This approach makes sense for unusually large apartments where room count doesn't capture the full scope of work. A 1,000-square-foot apartment might cost $100 to $300 using this method, though most NYC services still use flat rates based on bedrooms and bathrooms because it's simpler for everyone involved.

NYC cleaning costs vs. national average

NYC cleaning services cost roughly 20 to 40% more than the national average, where standard apartment cleanings typically range from $90 to $180. A few factors drive these higher costs in New York.

First, labor costs reflect the city's elevated cost of living. Cleaners here earn more than their counterparts in most other cities, and that wage difference shows up in service pricing. Second, many NYC buildings require certificates of insurance, background checks, and service elevator coordination, which adds administrative work and overhead. Third, transportation matters more here than almost anywhere else. Cleaners factor in subway fares, travel time, or parking fees when pricing their services.

Factors that affect cleaning prices in NYC

Beyond basic size and service type, several variables influence what you'll actually pay. Understanding what drives these differences helps you anticipate costs more accurately.

Building requirements and access

Doorman buildings often require advance notice, certificates of insurance, and scheduled service elevator times. This coordination takes time and adds administrative costs, which is why some buildings come with slightly higher service fees. Buildings with strict access protocols can add $10 to $30 per visit to account for the extra logistics.

Neighborhood and parking

Cleaners serving outer boroughs or neighborhoods with difficult parking may include travel fees in their pricing. Manhattan services typically cost more than Brooklyn or Queens services, though the difference is often modest, around $10 to $30 per visit. The farther the cleaner travels or the harder parking becomes, the more likely you'll see a small surcharge.

Home condition

Homes that haven't been professionally cleaned in months or years take significantly more time and effort than well-maintained spaces. If your home has heavy buildup or hasn't been deep cleaned recently, expect the first visit to cost more. Once cleaners establish a baseline level of cleanliness, subsequent maintenance cleanings return to standard pricing.

Cleaning frequency

Recurring cleanings offer per-visit discounts of 10 to 20% compared to one-time appointments. This pricing structure rewards consistency and reflects the reality that maintaining an already-clean home takes less time than tackling a space that's been neglected between visits.

Time of year

Spring cleaning season (March through May) and the weeks before major holidays see higher demand. Some services raise prices slightly during these peak periods, while others simply have less availability. Booking during slower months like mid-summer or January can sometimes yield better rates or more flexible scheduling.

Hourly vs. flat rate pricing for NYC cleaners

Cleaning services use two main pricing models: hourly rates and flat rates. Hourly pricing typically runs $40 to $80 per hour per cleaner, but the final cost depends on how long the job actually takes. Flat rates, on the other hand, give you a set price based on home size and service type before the cleaner arrives.

At Homero, we use flat-rate pricing so you know exactly what you'll pay upfront. There are no surprises based on whether the cleaning takes two hours or three.

Additional services and fees to expect

Most cleaning services include basic tasks in their standard pricing, but certain requests cost extra. Knowing what's included versus what's additional helps you budget more accurately.

Supplies and equipment

Reputable cleaning services typically include all supplies and equipment in their quoted price. At Homero, we bring everything needed for a thorough cleaning, from eco-friendly products to vacuums and mops. You don't need to provide or buy anything.

Special requests

Interior oven cleaning, inside refrigerator cleaning, interior cabinet wiping, laundry, and organization services usually cost extra because they add significant time beyond standard tasks. These services typically add $20 to $50 per request, depending on complexity.

Last-minute bookings

Same-day or next-day bookings may carry rush fees of $20 to $50 due to scheduling constraints. Booking a few days in advance helps you avoid these charges.

Holiday surcharges

Cleanings scheduled on or near major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's) often include surcharges of $25 to $75. This compensates cleaners working during peak personal time when most people have the day off.

How to save money on NYC cleaning services

You can reduce your cleaning costs without sacrificing quality by making strategic choices about frequency, timing, and preparation.

1. Book recurring services

Weekly or biweekly cleaning plans typically offer 10 to 20% per-visit discounts compared to one-time cleanings. Over a year, this can save you hundreds of dollars while keeping your home consistently clean.

2. Bundle multiple services

Scheduling a deep clean alongside your regular maintenance or adding special requests during a single visit is often more cost-effective than booking separate appointments. Cleaners work more efficiently when handling multiple tasks in one session.

3. Schedule during off-peak times

Booking mid-week or mid-month when demand is lower can sometimes yield better rates or promotional pricing. Avoiding holiday weeks and spring cleaning season gives you more scheduling flexibility and occasionally better prices.

4. Prepare your home before cleaning

Decluttering and tidying before your cleaner arrives allows them to focus on actual cleaning rather than organizing. This maximizes efficiency and gets you more value from the time you're paying for.

What to look for in an NYC cleaning service

Price matters, but it's not the only factor when choosing a cleaning service. The cheapest option often comes with hidden costs in quality, reliability, or trustworthiness.

Licensed and insured

Reputable cleaning services carry liability insurance that protects you if something breaks or gets damaged during cleaning. They also provide certificates of insurance for buildings that require them, which many NYC apartment buildings do. This protection is worth paying slightly more for, even if you never need to use it.

Background-checked cleaners

Professional companies thoroughly vet their cleaners with background checks and reference verification. When you're giving someone access to your home and belongings, knowing they've been properly screened provides real peace of mind.

Clear pricing structure

Watch out for services with vague estimates, hidden fees, or prices that change after the cleaner arrives. Transparent, upfront pricing builds trust and helps you budget accurately. At Homero, we provide clear flat-rate pricing before you book, so you know exactly what you'll pay.

Consistent service standards

Companies with structured training programs and quality standards deliver more reliable results than individual contractors who may vary in approach and thoroughness. We assign consistent cleaners to your home whenever possible, so you know who's coming and what to expect every time.

Get started with professional NYC home cleaning

Now that you understand what cleaning services cost in NYC and what drives pricing, you can make an informed decision about which service fits your needs and budget. At Homero, we offer transparent flat-rate pricing, thoroughly vetted cleaners, and easy online booking. Book your cleaning appointment online and see what consistent, reliable service looks like.

FAQs about NYC cleaning service costs

Should I tip my cleaner in NYC?

Tipping isn't required but is appreciated if you're happy with the service. A tip of 15 to 20% or a flat amount like $20 to $40 is a thoughtful gesture.

Do I need to be home during the cleaning?

You don't need to be home as long as you provide clear access instructions. Some customers prefer being present for the first cleaning to answer questions and show the cleaner around.

What if I need to reschedule my cleaning appointment?

Most services allow rescheduling with at least 24 to 48 hours notice. Last-minute cancellations may incur fees depending on the company's policy.

Are cleaning supplies included in the price?

Many professional services, including Homero, include all supplies and equipment in the quoted price. You don't need to provide or purchase anything.

How far in advance should I book a cleaning service in NYC?

Booking a few days to a week in advance is recommended, especially during busy seasons like spring or holidays. Some services offer next-day availability if you're flexible with timing.

Do cleaning prices change during holidays in NYC?

Yes, many services charge holiday surcharges of $25 to $75 for cleanings scheduled on or around major holidays. This compensates cleaners working during those times.