As the demand for professional cleaning and housekeeping continues to grow across residential, hospitality, and healthcare sectors, many people are considering careers as cleaners or housekeepers in Cleveland, OH. In 2026, compensation for these roles reflects both local living costs and varied employer standards. This guide breaks down salary ranges, experience‑based earnings, influencing factors, job market trends, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities to give you real insight into this career path.
Average Cleaner and Housekeeper Salary in Cleveland, OH
While exact figures can vary depending on employer and responsibilities, data from recent job postings and salary surveys shows that cleaners and housekeepers in Cleveland generally earn competitive wages for service roles.
Hourly & Annual Pay Overview
| Role | Average Pay | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner | ~$14.22 per hour | $7.25 – $30.62/hr |
| Housekeeper | ~$15.47 per hour | $12.25 – $19.55/hr |
| Housekeeper (Salary estimate) | ~$30,000–$32,000 per year | $25,000 – $35,000 |
| Live‑In Housekeeper | ~$27,000 per year | $23,600 – $31,800 |
👉 On a yearly basis, full‑time cleaners and housekeepers tend to earn around $28,000–$32,000 annually depending on hours worked and specific duties.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience and skill level can impact how much cleaners and housekeepers earn in Cleveland.
Entry‑Level (0–2 Years)
Perform basic cleaning tasks under supervision
Typical pay: $12.00–$14.50/hr
Often found in hotels, offices, and residential cleaning contracts
Mid‑Level (3–5 Years)
Can handle a broader set of cleaning duties and time management
May work in healthcare or larger facilities
Typical pay: $14.00–$16.00/hr
Experienced / Specialized Cleaners
Experience with commercial deep cleaning or supervisory tasks
Possible shift leads or training roles
Pay may rise toward the upper range of $17.00+ / hr in some cases
Factors That Influence Earnings
Several elements can affect cleaner/housekeeper pay in Cleveland:
Type of employer — Hospitals, higher‑end hotels, or healthcare facilities often pay better than general office cleaning.
Experience and reliability — Well‑trained, punctual staff typically secure higher pay.
Specialized skills — Deep cleaning, sanitation certifications, or safety training can boost value.
Shift hours — Evening, weekend, or on‑call shifts may come with premium pay.
Live‑in arrangements — Roles offering live‑in accommodations often balance lower wages with room/lodging benefits.
Job Market Trends in Cleveland (2026)
Cleveland’s economy and service sector continue to sustain a consistent need for cleaning professionals:
Steady demand for cleaners and housekeepers across healthcare, hospitality, and residential sectors.
Healthcare cleaning roles growing due to heightened sanitation standards.
Hotel and tourism rebound contributes to increased housekeeping positions.
Positions often offer part‑time and full‑time opportunities, making the field accessible.
Benefits of Being a Cleaner or Housekeeper
Although these roles are often entry‑level, they come with several advantages:
Job Stability
Cleaning services are essential across multiple industries, leading to consistent employment opportunities.
Flexible Hours
Many employers offer part‑time and shift work ideal for students or people needing a flexible schedule.
Skill Growth Opportunities
With experience, workers can advance to supervisory roles or specialized cleaning positions requiring additional training.
Benefits (Varies by Employer)
Some full‑time positions include:
Health benefits
Paid time off
Retirement plans
Overtime pay
Employer‑provided benefits vary by company and role.
Education, Training & Certifications That Can Impact Pay
While formal education is not typically required, certain certifications and training can boost salary potential:
Helpful Credentials
OSHA safety training
Sanitation and infection control certification (especially for healthcare cleaning)
Leadership or supervisory courses
Customer service training
These certifications may help workers stand out for higher‑pay roles.
Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
| City | Avg Hourly Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Cleveland, OH | $14.22–$15.47/hr | Core city range |
| Akron, OH | ~$14.63/hr | Similar regional market |
| Columbus, OH | ~$14.81/hr | Comparable urban area |
| Cincinnati, OH | ~$15.49/hr | Slightly higher in some cleaning roles |
| Mentor, OH (Cleaner) | ~$16.11/hr | Often higher suburban pay |
Compared with nearby Ohio cities, Cleveland’s cleaner/housekeeper pay is competitive but may be slightly lower than some suburbs or larger metro areas.
Tips for Increasing Earnings
If you’re working or planning to work as a cleaner or housekeeper in Cleveland:
Gain experience — More years often lead to higher pay.
Seek training — Safety, sanitation, or specialized cleaning courses can increase value.
Apply to varied sectors — Healthcare and hospitality tend to pay better.
Consider supervisory roles — With experience, you can move into team lead or manager positions.
Summary
In Cleveland, OH in 2026, cleaners and housekeepers typically earn around $14–$15.50 per hour or roughly $28,000–$32,000 annually in full‑time roles, though pay can vary significantly based on industry, employer, experience, and shift type. Demand remains steady, and opportunities for advancement exist through training and sector specialization. Many workers find this field a stable entry point into the service industry with flexible schedules and room to grow.