Keeping a workplace clean isn’t just about looks; it’s about creating a healthy, productive environment for employees and making a good impression on clients.

One of the most common questions business owners have is, “How much does commercial cleaning actually cost?” The answer depends on a few factors, like the size of your space, how often you need cleaning, and the type of services required.

What You Can Expect to Pay

Most cleaning companies charge in two main ways: by the hour or by square footage.

Hourly rates usually fall between $30 and $75 per hour. A small office needing basic cleaning will be at the lower end, while larger spaces or facilities that require detailed sanitization will be at the higher end.
Per-square-foot pricing is also common, generally ranging from $0.05 to $0.20 per square foot. Smaller offices tend to pay more per square foot because of minimum service charges, while larger facilities often get better rates.

For example, a 5,000-square-foot office might cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 per month, depending on the frequency and level of cleaning.

Monthly Costs at a Glance

If you want a more predictable budget, many businesses choose monthly contracts. The monthly cost is heavily influenced by the size of your space, the frequency of cleaning, and the type of business you operate.

Small offices: Around $200–$1,000 per month.

This typically covers spaces under 5,000 square feet that need cleaning a few times per week. The per-square-foot rate might be higher for these smaller contracts.

Medium offices (5,000–10,000 sq. ft.): Roughly $800–$1,500 per month.

These spaces often require more frequent service, such as daily or weekly cleaning, to maintain a high level of cleanliness due to increased foot traffic.

Large facilities: Usually $2,000+ per month.

This applies to large corporate offices, warehouses, or industrial spaces over 10,000 square feet. Because of their size, these facilities benefit from economies of scale, often getting a lower per-square-foot rate for a comprehensive, daily cleaning schedule.

What Affects the Price?

How often you need cleaning:

The frequency of service is a major driver of cost. Daily cleaning is more expensive than weekly or monthly visits, but often comes with a lower per-visit rate as it allows cleaning companies to optimize their schedule and resources. One-time deep cleans or emergency services are typically the most expensive on a per-visit basis.

The type of space:

Different industries have unique cleaning requirements. Medical clinics, for instance, need specialized disinfection to meet health and safety regulations. Similarly, restaurants and gyms require specific cleaning protocols to maintain hygiene. Factories and warehouses might have industrial equipment or different flooring materials (like epoxy) that need special attention, which can increase the cost compared to a standard office.

Foot traffic:

The number of people using a space directly impacts how much cleaning is needed. A busy retail store or a large corporate office with hundreds of employees will require more frequent and thorough cleaning than a small, low-traffic office. High-traffic areas like lobbies, restrooms, and kitchens are often prioritized and may require additional resources.

Extra services:

Basic cleaning packages typically cover dusting, vacuuming, and trash removal. However, most businesses need additional services, which are priced separately. These include things like carpet shampooing, hard floor waxing or buffing, window washing, and post-construction cleanup. Each of these add-ons requires specialized equipment and expertise, increasing the total cost.

Location:

The geographic location of your business plays a significant role in pricing. Commercial cleaning costs are often higher in major metropolitan areas like New York due to increased labor costs, higher operational expenses, and logistical challenges like traffic and parking. Remote or rural locations may also incur additional travel fees.

Time of day:

Cleaning during business hours can sometimes be more expensive as it may disrupt operations. Many businesses prefer after-hours cleaning, which allows cleaning crews to work more efficiently, but some companies may charge a premium for late-night or weekend shifts.

Add-On Services to Consider

Regular cleaning usually covers dusting, vacuuming, trash removal, and restroom cleaning. But if you need more specialized services, here’s what you might expect:

Window cleaning: $2–$8 per window
Carpet deep cleaning: $0.15–$0.30 per square foot
Disinfection services: 20–40% higher than standard rates
Emergency or after-hours cleaning: often 25–50% extra

Wrapping It Up

Commercial cleaning isn’t one-size-fits-all. A small office might only spend a few hundred dollars a month, while a large facility could budget thousands. The key is to figure out what level of cleaning your space actually needs and find a provider who offers clear, upfront pricing.

At the end of the day, a clean workplace is an investment. It keeps employees healthier, makes visitors feel welcome, and ensures your business always puts its best foot forward.

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