The cleaning and housekeeping industry in Tampa, Florida, continues to grow as the city expands its hospitality, healthcare, and residential sectors. Whether you’re considering a career as a cleaner or a housekeeper, understanding earning potential, job outlook, and what influences pay is key. This comprehensive guide breaks down salaries in 2026, how experience and skills affect earnings, benefits of working in the field, and how Tampa compares to nearby cities.
Overview: Cleaning & Housekeeping Roles
Although the roles of cleaner and housekeeper overlap, they can vary slightly:
Cleaner: Typically focuses on basic cleaning tasks in residential or commercial settings (offices, schools, retail) such as sweeping, mopping, and waste removal.
Housekeeper: Often associated with hospitality (hotels, resorts) or private homes, performing more detailed cleaning, laundry, and organization.
Salaries reflect the job type, employer, and experience level.
Average Salary in Tampa, FL (2026)
Cleaner Salary
| Pay Metric | Amount (2026) |
|---|---|
| Average Annual | ~$28,600 |
| Hourly Rate | ~$14/hour |
| Typical Range | ~$24,500 – $33,000 per year |
| (Source: Salary.com) |
According to job listing data, cleaner positions in Tampa can offer around $17.81 per hour on average in current postings, showing demand for hourly workers in this role.
Housekeeper Salary
| Position Type | Salary 2026 Estimate |
|---|---|
| Standard Housekeeper | ~$29,300 per year (~$14/hr) |
| Housekeeper (Job Listings)* | ~$37,700 per year (~$18.1/hr) |
| Private Housekeeper | ~$30,540 per year (~$15/hr) |
| Live-In Housekeeper | ~$26,510 per year (~$13/hr) |
| Executive Housekeeper | ~$47,700 per year (~$23/hr) |
*Local job boards report a broader range of housekeeper salaries depending on employer type, responsibilities, and experience.
Salary by Experience & Job Type
Experience has a noticeable impact on earnings in cleaning and housekeeping roles. Below are typical categories:
Entry-Level (0–2 Years)
Cleaner/Housekeeper starting pay often near $13–$15/hour
Annual equivalent: $26,000 – $30,000
Entry roles may include basic cleaning duties under supervision.
Mid-Level (3–5 Years)
Improved roles with more responsibility, possibly at upscale hotels or larger commercial facilities
Hourly pay range: $15–$20/hour
Annual pay might fall between $30,000 – $40,000 depending on employer.
Senior / Supervisory Roles
Lead housekeepers or executive housekeepers managing teams
Salaries range around $40,000 – $55,000+
Especially relevant in hospitality and healthcare sectors.
Factors That Influence Earnings
Several elements affect how much cleaners and housekeepers make in Tampa:
Experience and skill level: More experienced workers can command higher pay.
Employer type: Hotels and healthcare facilities may offer higher wages compared to small residential cleaning companies.
Shift type and scheduling: Night, weekend, or holiday shifts often have higher hourly rates.
Certifications or special training: Courses in housekeeping management, safety, or equipment use can increase opportunities.
Location within Tampa: Downtown or upscale areas may offer higher pay due to cost of living and demand.
Live-in positions: Offering accommodation may provide total compensation value even if base pay is lower.
Job Market Trends (Tampa, FL)
The cleaning and housekeeping job market in Tampa is influenced by several positive trends:
Growth in hospitality and tourism: Hotels, resorts, and event venues continue to expand, requiring more staff.
Healthcare facility demand: Hospitals and clinics maintain regular cleaning and sanitation positions.
Residential cleaning demand: Busy households increasingly use professional services.
Post-pandemic focus on sanitation: Enhanced cleaning standards have increased demand for trained cleaners.
According to recent job listings, there are substantial full-time opportunities available, with employers listing dozens of housekeeper positions regularly.
Benefits & Work Environment
Working as a cleaner or housekeeper in Tampa can include:
Flexible scheduling: Part-time, full-time, or variable shift options.
Entry without a degree: Most roles require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Skill growth: Opportunities to learn advanced techniques, customer service, and supervisory skills.
Health and retirement benefits: Larger employers may offer insurance and retirement plans.
Potential for tips and bonuses: In private and hospitality settings, performance bonuses or service tips may be possible.
Some roles, especially in private households or upscale venues, may offer higher compensation packages that include benefits beyond hourly pay.
Comparison with Nearby Cities (Hourly Basis)
| City | Approx. Avg Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Tampa, FL | $14 – $18/hour |
| Miami, FL | ~$17 – $22/hour |
| Orlando, FL | ~$15 – $20/hour |
| St. Petersburg, FL | ~$14 – $18/hour |
| Clearwater, FL | ~$14 – $18/hour |
Based on regional job data, nearby cities like Miami and Orlando may offer slightly higher pay due to greater tourism and cost of living, while Tampa remains competitive within the region.
How to Boost Your Earnings
Here are ways to potentially increase income as a cleaner or housekeeper:
Gain experience: More years and varied work increase value.
Take on supervisory duties: Lead roles pay more than entry positions.
Learn specialized cleaning techniques: Carpet, upholstery, or industrial cleaning certifications can help.
Seek positions in higher-paying settings: Healthcare and upscale hospitality often offer better pay.
Offer deep-clean and add-on services: Building additional services can justify higher rates in private contracts.
Conclusion
In 2026, cleaners and housekeepers in Tampa, FL continue to earn competitive wages that reflect local demand and cost of living. Entry-level roles typically start around $13–$15/hour, with experienced workers earning closer to $18–$23/hour or more in supervisory positions. With a growing market in hospitality, healthcare, and residential services, the cleaning industry offers stable work, flexible schedules, and opportunities for upward mobility — making it a viable career or side-income path for many residents.