The cleaning and housekeeping profession remains an essential part of the workforce in Minneapolis, Minnesota, as businesses and households rely on these workers to maintain safe and hygienic environments. Whether working in hotels, hospitals, offices, or private homes, cleaners and housekeepers are in steady demand in 2026. This article covers average salary ranges, how pay varies with experience, factors influencing earnings, job market trends, benefits, skills/training that can boost wages, and comparisons with nearby cities.
Average Cleaner and Housekeeper Salary in Minneapolis, MN
Salaries for clean‑up professionals vary depending on job type, employer, and duties, but overall earnings in Minneapolis tend to be higher than the national average due to local demand.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
| Job Title | Typical Annual Pay | Typical Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeper (avg) | ≈ $32,000–$41,800 | ≈ $15–$21/hr |
| Cleaner (general) | ≈ $38,000–$47,000 | ≈ $19–$22/hr |
| House Cleaner (home) | ≈ $38,800–$46,600 | ≈ $19–$22/hr |
Key takeaways:
Housekeepers in Minneapolis can expect around $32,000–$40,000 annually depending on source and experience.
General cleaners often earn higher average salaries around $40,000+.
Hourly pay commonly ranges from about $15 to $23 per hour depending on duties and employer.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience plays a significant role in earnings within cleaning and housekeeping roles.
Entry‑Level (0–2 Years)
Typically earning closer to minimum wage or starting hourly rates.
Housekeeper roles at entry level: approximately $14–$17/hr or $29,000–$35,000 yearly.
General cleaners may start closer to $18–$20/hr depending on employer.
Mid‑Level (3–5 Years)
With a few years of steady experience, cleaners w/ good performance often earn $19–$22/hr or $38,000–$44,000+ annually.
Housekeepers at mid‑level can also see pay closer to $20/hr average.
Senior / Specialized Roles (6+ Years)
Experienced staff or those with additional responsibilities (e.g., supervising teams, handling specialty cleaning or health‑care environments) can earn over $23/hr.
Annual earnings in these roles often exceed $45,000 with top earners reaching upwards of $50,000+.
Factors Influencing Earnings
Several important elements affect how much cleaners and housekeepers earn in Minneapolis:
1. Type of Employer
Hospitals, corporate offices, and specialized cleaning services often pay faster than basic residential roles.
Hotel housekeepers may earn slightly less on average compared with broader commercial cleaning roles.
2. Job Duties and Scope
Deep cleaning, specialized sanitation (e.g., medical facilities), and supervisory tasks command higher wages.
3. Experience and Reliability
Proven reliability and experience in demanding environments can significantly increase annual income.
4. Local Minimum Wage
As of 2026, Minneapolis has a strengthened minimum wage baseline (~$16.37/hr), helping raise starting pay in many roles.
Job Market Trends in Minneapolis (2026)
The cleaning and housekeeping field in Minneapolis remains steady due to:
Growing demand in health care facilities (ongoing sanitation needs)
Persistence of hospitality and tourism services
Increased attention to commercial and residential cleaning standards
Post‑pandemic focus on cleanliness and safety
Although automation affects some tasks, human workers are still needed for high‑quality and detailed cleaning work across sectors.
Benefits of Cleaner / Housekeeper Roles
While salaries are important, many roles include additional perks:
Flexible scheduling options (part‑time/full‑time)
Union or contract benefits in some settings
Paid time off and holidays in larger organizations
Opportunity to move into lead or supervisory roles with higher pay
Some employers offer training or certifications in safety practices
Skills, Training & Certifications That Impact Pay
Although formal certifications are less common for cleaners/housekeepers compared with technical careers, certain qualifications can help boost earnings:
High‑Value Skills
OSHA safety training
Specialized sanitation certification (e.g., healthcare cleaning protocols)
Leadership and supervisor training
Customer service in hospitality settings
Employers value reliability, thoroughness, and adherence to safety standards, which often translate into performance bonuses or higher pay.
Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
Here’s how Minneapolis compares to some nearby Minnesota locations:
| City / Area | Typical Hourly Pay | Typical Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis, MN | $19.0 – $22.0+ | ~$38,000–$47,000 |
| Saint Paul, MN | ~$17.4 – $19/hr | ~$36,000–$42,000 |
| Eden Prairie, MN | ~$22.5/hr | ~$42,000–$46,000 |
| Woodbury, MN | ~$21.5/hr | ~$40,000–$45,000 |
| Bloomington, MN | ~$20.5/hr | ~$39,000–$44,000 |
Across the broader Minneapolis–Saint Paul metro, housekeeper/cleaner wages generally stay competitive with national norms, with slight upward pressure due to demand and cost of living.
Job Outlook and Trends
The employment outlook for cleaners and housekeepers in Minneapolis continues to be stable:
Ongoing demand in healthcare, senior living, hotels, and corporate services
Part‑time and full‑time opportunities widely available
Potential for growth into supervisory, training, or management roles
Because basic hygiene and sanitation work are fundamental to many industries, this career provides consistent work opportunities even during economic shifts.
Tips for Maximizing Earnings
Here are practical strategies for cleaners and housekeepers looking to increase their income:
Specialize in medical or industrial cleaning protocols
Pursue additional safety and OSHA training
Build experience in high‑demand sectors like hospitals or corporate facilities
Offer additional services (e.g., carpet cleaning, sanitation certification)
Demonstrate reliability and high performance to earn raises or promotions
Conclusion
The Cleaner / Housekeeper salary in Minneapolis, MN for 2026 reflects a robust and stable job market with competitive wages, flexible work opportunities, and demand across several sectors. Whether in residential cleaning, hospitality, healthcare, or corporate services, workers with experience and skills can earn solid incomes and grow their careers in this role.