As Phoenix continues to grow as a major metropolitan area in the Southwest, demand for service industry jobs such as cleaners and housekeepers remains strong. Whether working in hospitality, residential cleaning, or commercial cleaning services, these roles are essential and provide steady employment opportunities. This detailed guide breaks down the salary landscape for cleaners and housekeepers in Phoenix, AZ in 2026, explaining average pay, experience-based differences, key salary drivers, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Salary: Cleaners vs Housekeepers in Phoenix
In Phoenix, wages for cleaning roles can vary based on job title, setting, and employer. Generally, both cleaners and housekeepers earn hourly wages rather than annual salaries, though full-year earnings can be estimated from these figures.
Current Pay Overview (2026 Data)
| Role | Typical Hourly Pay | Estimated Annual Equivalent* |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeper (general) | ~$17.44/hr | ~$36,000 |
| Hotel Housekeeper | ~$17.36/hr | ~$36,100 |
| Cleaner (general) | ~$17.02/hr | ~$35,400 |
| House Cleaner (specialised) | ~$24.20/hr | ~$50,000 |
| Live-In Housekeeper | ~$13/hr | ~$27,600 |
*Annual figures are approximate and based on full-time (40 hrs/week) work. Actual pay may vary with part-time schedules, shift work, or seasonal roles.
Key takeaway: Most cleaner and housekeeper positions in Phoenix pay between $15–$18 per hour, with potential for higher earnings in specialized home cleaning or private roles.
Salary by Experience and Role
Entry-Level Cleaners & Housekeepers
Typically earn at or near the local average.
Focus on basic cleaning tasks like sweeping, vacuuming, bathroom and kitchen cleaning.
Hourly rate: $14.70–$17.50 (general range).
Mid-Level / Experienced Workers
May handle deeper cleaning, organization, and guest services in hotels or serviced apartments.
Could oversee small teams or schedule tasks.
Hourly rate: $17.50–$20.00+.
Skilled or Specialized Cleaners
Including private home cleaners, specialized deep cleaners, or those with customer service focus.
Often command higher rates — sometimes $20–$25+ per hour.
Supervisors and Leads
In hotels and large facilities, housekeeping supervisors or team leads earn more than frontline cleaners, potentially upwards of $20–$25/hour — depending on employer and responsibilities.
Factors That Influence Cleaner & Housekeeper Earnings
Several elements can affect pay rates for cleaning professionals in Phoenix:
1. Work Setting
Hotels and Resorts: Often offer stable employment and benefits.
Residential Cleaning: Rates vary widely; private cleaners may negotiate higher pay.
Commercial Cleaning: Can include office buildings, schools, or medical facilities — typically steady pay.
2. Employer & Industry Demand
Larger employers or those with a strong service reputation may pay more, offer benefits, and provide more consistent hours.
3. Skill Level & Duties
Advanced cleaning skills, attention to detail, ability to operate equipment (e.g., floor polishers), and responsibility for deep cleaning or guest interaction can enhance pay.
4. Shift and Schedule
Night shifts, weekends, and flexible availability often attract premiums.
Job Market Trends in Phoenix
The cleaning and housekeeping job market in Phoenix remains stable and in demand — driven by:
Population growth and new housing developments
Hospitality industry expansion (hotels, Airbnbs)
Healthcare and commercial facility services
Increased outsourcing of cleaning services to professional teams
This consistent demand translates into good job prospects and relatively stable wages for cleaners and housekeepers throughout 2026.
Benefits of Housekeeper / Cleaner Positions
Although many cleaning roles are hourly, they offer a range of benefits:
Flexible hours and part-time scheduling
Opportunities for tips or performance bonuses (in some residential work)
Potential for full-time employment and benefits
Training and certification opportunities (e.g., leadership or specialized cleaning methods)
Employers in hospitality or large facility management often provide additional perks like health insurance, paid leave, and employee discounts.
Certifications and Training That Can Improve Earnings
While formal education isn’t typically required, certain training or certifications can boost earnings:
OSHA safety and cleaning standards training
Green cleaning certifications
Customer service training
Supervisory or team lead courses
These credentials can make an applicant more attractive for higher-paying positions or supervisory roles.
Comparing Phoenix with Nearby Cities
| City | Avg Cleaner/Housekeeper Pay (Hourly) |
|---|---|
| Phoenix, AZ | ~$17/hr |
| Scottsdale, AZ | ~$17.68/hr |
| Glendale, AZ | ~$20.15/hr (cleaner) |
| Tucson, AZ | ~$17.7/hr (general house cleaning) |
| Mesa, AZ | Often competitive with Phoenix |
Cleaners and housekeepers in Scottsdale and Glendale may see slightly higher average wages due to cost of living and hospitality demand.
Job Outlook for 2026
Employment prospects for cleaners and housekeepers in Phoenix remain positive in 2026:
Ongoing demand in the hospitality sector
Residential and commercial properties ensuring continuous cleaning needs
Growth of short-term rentals sustaining housekeeping jobs
Overall, opportunities are stable with room to grow into supervisor roles or specialized cleaning services.
Tips to Maximize Earnings
Work for reputable companies with consistent schedules and benefits.
Develop skills in deep cleaning and customer service.
Consider specialized roles (e.g., medical facility cleaning, upscale residential services).
Negotiate pay based on experience and responsibilities.
Conclusion
In Phoenix, AZ for 2026, cleaners and housekeepers can expect solid, hourly-based earnings, generally between $15–$18 per hour, with opportunities to earn more in specialized or private cleaning roles. Career growth is possible through experience, training, and working in higher-demand sectors. The city’s expanding population and robust service industry continue to support a healthy job market for cleaning professionals.