When you are budgeting for janitorial or office cleaning, transparency is essential. Commercial cleaning rates vary widely depending on your facility’s size, location, and service needs.
From our experience cleaning offices in Denver and San Diego, we have found that understanding how pricing works helps businesses make confident decisions about cost, quality, and long-term value.
This 2026 guide explains what businesses can expect to pay per square foot, per hour, and per month, and outlines the most common factors that influence commercial cleaning rates across the United States.
Average Commercial Cleaning Rates in the United States
The chart below outlines what most businesses are paying for janitorial and commercial cleaning services in 2026.
These are national averages. Actual prices depend on regional labor markets, property layout, and the complexity of cleaning required.
Cost per Square Foot Breakdown
The commercial cleaning cost per square foot changes based on the building type and service level required. Below are general 2026 benchmarks.
In markets such as Denver and San Diego, Class A office buildings typically sit at the higher end of the range due to premium finishes and daily restroom service.
See our current commercial cleaning rates in Denver or commercial cleaning rates in San Diego for local examples.
Cost per Hour (When It Applies)
Hourly pricing can be a better fit for smaller facilities or one-time projects where scope and timing fluctuate.
In 2026, most cleaning companies charge between $35 and $60 per hour for standard janitorial work.
Hourly pricing is best for:
- Offices smaller than 3,000 square feet
- One-time cleanings, such as move-outs or post-construction
- Seasonal or irregular cleaning needs
For recurring service, monthly or per-square-foot pricing provides more predictability and control over long-term costs.
Monthly Commercial Cleaning Cost Examples
To help visualize real-world scenarios, here are examples of typical monthly costs by building size and frequency of service.
In our Denver and San Diego markets, labor rates, supply costs, and building layouts all influence where a property falls within this range. Facilities with multiple restrooms, break rooms, or heavy foot traffic usually require additional attention and time.
Key Factors That Affect Commercial Cleaning Pricing
Every property is unique. Several elements directly influence commercial cleaning rates and janitorial service pricing:
- Facility Size and Layout: Larger spaces require more total labor but may qualify for a lower per-square-foot rate.
- Frequency of Service: More frequent cleaning increases total cost but prevents buildup and extends asset life.
- Cleaning Level: Deep cleaning and medical-grade disinfection require extra labor and specialized products.
- Industry Regulations: Certain industries, such as healthcare or food service, require compliance with specific standards.
- Supplies and Equipment: Eco-friendly products or specialized floor machines can affect the total price.
- Supervision and Quality Control: Regular inspections and account management add cost but ensure consistency.
From our experience managing apartment communities, retail centers, and office portfolios, the two biggest cost drivers are cleaning frequency and quality expectations set by the client or property manager.
How to Get the Best Value (Not Just the Lowest Cost)
Selecting the lowest bid may seem like a quick way to save money, but it often leads to frustration when quality slips or communication breaks down.
Cheaper providers often reduce wages, skip supervision, or rely on undertrained workers. These shortcuts create inconsistency and require more oversight from your staff.
To get lasting value, look for cleaning companies that:
- Provide documented training and safety programs
- Perform regular quality inspections and report findings
- Offer a dedicated account manager who communicates proactively
- Maintain transparent pricing and clear scopes of work
At Big League Clean, our experience has shown that consistent service and clear communication deliver better long-term results for property managers and tenants alike.
- Initial walkthrough and scope review
- Team assignment and onboarding
- Routine inspections and communication checkpoints
- Performance reviews and service adjustments
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost per square foot for office cleaning?
Most offices fall between $0.10 and $0.18 per square foot depending on service frequency, layout, and building type.
Are commercial cleaning services tax deductible?
Yes. Cleaning services are generally considered a necessary business expense and can be deducted as part of your operating costs.
How often should a business schedule professional cleaning?
Most offices are cleaned three to five times per week, while medical and retail facilities usually require daily cleaning due to higher usage.
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Whether you manage a single office, a retail property, or multiple locations, knowing how commercial cleaning rates are structured helps you plan with confidence and choose a trusted service partner.
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