The demand for cleaners and housekeepers in Baltimore, Maryland remains steady in 2026 thanks to growth in hospitality, residential services, healthcare facilities, and commercial cleaning contracts. With a mix of part‑time and full‑time opportunities, these roles offer accessible entry points into the workforce, steady income, and paths to additional responsibilities. In this article, we break down estimated salaries, career factors, job trends, benefits, and city comparisons to help you understand what cleaning professionals can expect in Baltimore this year.
Average Cleaner & Housekeeper Salary in Baltimore, MD
Salaries for cleaning professionals vary by role, experience, employer, and work environment. Below is a snapshot of typical pay levels in Baltimore for 2026:
Salary Overview
| Role | Typical Annual Salary | Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeper (average) | ~$31,900/year | ~$15/hr |
| Cleaner (general) | ~$35,819/year | ~$17.25/hr |
| Housekeeper (job listings) | ~$41,600/year | ~$20/hr |
| Live‑In Housekeeper | ~$28,840/year | ~$14/hr |
These figures represent ranges across industries such as hospitality, private homes, healthcare facilities, and contracts with cleaning service companies.
Cleaner vs Housekeeper: What’s the Difference?
While both roles focus on maintaining clean environments, there are subtle distinctions:
Housekeepers typically maintain residential or hotel spaces, focusing on tidiness, sanitation, laundry, and sometimes client‑specific tasks.
Cleaners often work in commercial or industrial spaces, handling larger floor areas, offices, schools, or specialized cleaning tasks such as floor care or sanitation services.
Some employers use the terms interchangeably, and compensation can overlap depending on duties and employer type.
Salary by Experience Level
As with most occupations, experience affects earnings for cleaners and housekeepers:
Entry‑Level (0–2 years)
Often part‑time or hourly roles
Basic cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, dusting
Typical pay: $14–$17/hr
As annual salary: $28,000–$35,000 on full‑time equivalents
Mid‑Level (3–6 years)
More complex responsibilities like scheduling, inventory, or supervising others
Potential for slightly higher hourly rates
Typical pay: $17–$20/hr
Annual: $35,000–$42,000+
Senior Level (7+ years or supervisors)
Lead cleaner, team lead, or housekeeping supervisor roles
Oversight of staff, quality assurance, client interaction
Pay varies widely, often above $20/hr for supervisory positions
Factors That Influence Earnings
Several factors can impact how much cleaners and housekeepers earn in Baltimore:
Type of Employer: Hotels and large facilities may offer higher pay or benefits than small residential cleaning jobs.
Work Schedule: Full‑time positions with benefits usually pay more than part‑time or gig‑style work.
Experience & Special Skills: Supervisory skills, ability to operate specialized equipment, or certifications in sanitation can boost earnings.
Location Within the City: Central business districts or upscale neighborhoods sometimes offer higher pay rates.
Job Market Trends in Baltimore for 2026
The job market for cleaning professionals in Baltimore shows steady demand:
Hospitality Sector: Hotels, restaurants, and event venues require reliable housekeeping staff year‑round.
Healthcare & Senior Living: These facilities emphasize sanitation and safety, increasing demand for trained cleaners.
Commercial Contracts: Ongoing need for office and facility maintenance.
Residential Services: Busy homeowners frequently hire cleaners through agencies or direct contracts.
Job opportunities continue to grow alongside the broader service economy, making cleaning and housekeeping accessible job options for many workers.
Benefits of Working as a Cleaner or Housekeeper
While pay varies, many positions offer additional perks:
Flexible, part‑time schedules
Opportunities for full‑time employment with benefits
Tips in certain settings (especially private home or hospitality services)
Advancement into supervisory or management roles
On‑the‑job training and skill development
Additionally, some full‑time roles may include health benefits, paid time off, and retirement contributions, especially in larger organizations.
Advancement and Skills That Increase Earnings
While formal education is not typically required, certain skills and credentials can help cleaner/housekeeper professionals earn more:
Hospitality or sanitation certification
Supervisory experience or leadership training
Specialized cleaning skills (e.g., carpet care, industrial cleaning systems)
Customer service skills to support higher tipping opportunities in private work
Developing these skills can help shift into higher‑paying supervisory roles or specialized cleaning jobs.
Cleaner & Housekeeper Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
Below is a general comparison of typical cleaner/housekeeper salaries in Baltimore with other nearby cities or regions:
| City / Area | Typical Hourly Rate | Typical Annual Pay* |
|---|---|---|
| Baltimore, MD | ~$15–$20/hr | ~$31k–$41k+ |
| Maryland State Average | ~$17.10/hr | n/a |
| Nearby Suburbs (e.g., Towson, Oxon Hill) | ~$18–$26/hr | Higher range from job postings |
| National Average | ~$15.55/hr | ~$32k typical nationally |
*Annual figures can vary widely based on hours worked and employment type.
Job Outlook for 2026
The job outlook for cleaners and housekeepers in Baltimore remains positive and stable:
Hiring continues in hospitality, healthcare, and residential services.
The retirement of older workers creates openings for new entrants.
Commercial contracts and sanitation requirements are driving consistent work.
While growth is not extremely rapid, the steady availability of jobs makes this field a reliable employment option for individuals seeking flexible and stable work.
Conclusion
In Baltimore, MD in 2026, cleaners and housekeepers can expect:
Annual salaries commonly between $30,000 and $42,000+ depending on role and hours.
Hourly wages typically $15–$20+ with variation depending on employer and skills.
Opportunities in multiple industries including hotels, healthcare, commercial services, and private homes.
While entry‑level jobs are easy to enter, gaining experience, specialized skills, and leadership capabilities can significantly increase earning potential. Cleaners and housekeepers form a backbone of essential services in Baltimore—making it a viable and rewarding career path for many.