The cleaning and housekeeping industry in Columbus, Ohio remains a steady source of employment for many workers, including cleaners, housekeepers, hotel staff, and residential service providers. In 2026, wages reflect local demand, cost of living, and varied work environments—offering competitive compensation compared to state averages. This article breaks down salaries, factors that influence earnings, experience-based pay, job outlook, benefits, and comparisons with nearby cities to give you useful insights.
Average Cleaner & Housekeeper Salaries in Columbus, OH
In Columbus, earnings for cleaning-related roles vary depending on job title, employer, and duties.
Typical Pay in 2026
| Position | Average Pay | Hourly Equivalent | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cleaner (general) | ~$15.40/hour | ~$32,000/year | Median range based on local job postings |
| Housekeeper | ~$14.73–$15.19/hour | ~$30,000–$31,600/year | Typical range for hotel or facility workers |
| Senior Cleaner/Housekeeper | Higher ($18–$23/hour) | Varies by employer | Roles with supervision responsibilities |
Summary: Most cleaners and housekeepers in Columbus earn around $14–$16 per hour, although experienced workers or those in specialized roles can earn more.
Salary by Experience & Role
Experience and specific duties can influence pay significantly.
Entry-Level (0–1 Year)
Typically starts at or slightly above minimum wage
Basic cleaning tasks under supervision
Typical range: $12–$14/hour depending on employer
Mid-Level (2–5 Years)
Independent work with limited oversight
May handle larger facilities or commercial tasks
Typical range: $14–$17/hour
Senior / Supervisor Positions
Leading small teams or managing schedules
More complex cleaning systems (e.g., industrial, medical facilities)
Potential range: $18–$23/hour+ based on responsibilities and experience
Factors Influencing Cleaner & Housekeeper Pay
Several variables impact how much cleaning professionals can earn:
Type of Employer: Hospitals, schools, hotels, and corporate offices often pay more than residential cleaning services.
Experience & Reliability: Workers with consistent performance and several years of experience may negotiate higher pay.
Skill Set: Specialized cleaning (e.g., sanitization, deep cleaning) can command premium rates.
Hours (Full-Time vs Part-Time): Full-time positions may include benefits, while part-time or gig work usually focuses on pay rate only.
Geographic Factors: Demand in specific areas of Columbus (downtown, hospitality districts) can affect wage offers.
Job Market Trends for Cleaning Roles in Columbus
The cleaning and housekeeping sector in Columbus is relatively stable, with demand tied to several trends:
Growing Sectors
Hospitality & Hotels: Continued tourism and business travel drive need for reliable housekeeping staff.
Healthcare & Assisted Living: These institutions require regular cleaning and sanitization.
Commercial Cleaning: Office and facility maintenance remains steady year-round.
Emerging Trends
Part-Time & Flexible Work: Many employers are offering flexible schedules to attract workers.
Increased Standards: Post-pandemic emphasis on sanitization is reinforcing demand for skilled cleaning personnel.
Overall job stability for cleaners and housekeepers in Columbus is moderate to strong, especially for workers willing to take varied shifts or expand skill sets.
Benefits of Working as a Cleaner/Housekeeper
While many cleaning jobs are hourly and may not offer traditional corporate benefits, several perks are common:
Flexible Schedules: Many roles offer part-time or shift-based hours.
On-the-Job Training: Entry-level roles often include training without formal education requirements.
Overtime Opportunities: Busy seasons or larger facilities may provide overtime premiums.
Diverse Work Environments: From residential homes to large institutions, variety can lead to broader experience.
Skills & Certifications That Can Boost Earnings
While traditional certifications are less common in cleaning roles compared to skilled trades, certain credentials and skills may help:
OSHA/EHS Safety Training: Knowledge of safe cleaning protocols can be valuable in industrial or healthcare cleaning environments.
Specialized Sanitization Certifications: Especially for medical or lab facilities.
Supervisory or Team Leadership Skills: Demonstrated ability to oversee teams can lead to higher pay.
Customer Service Skills: Especially important for residential and hospitality roles.
Workers with additional skills often have an advantage when negotiating wage increases.
Salary Comparison: Columbus vs Nearby Cities
| City | Average Cleaner/Housekeeper Salary |
|---|---|
| Columbus, OH | ~$14.7–$15.5/hour average |
| Cincinnati, OH | ~$14/hour (Cleaner/Housekeeper) |
| Cleveland, OH | ~$14/hour (Housekeeper) |
| Ohio Statewide Avg | ~$14/hour (Housekeeper) |
Takeaway: Columbus offers slightly higher average pay for cleaning professionals compared with many other Ohio cities, reflecting its larger hospitality and commercial sectors.
Job Outlook Through 2026
The cleaning workforce is expected to remain in steady demand through 2026, driven by:
Continued commercial and residential development
Sustained hospitality growth
Ongoing emphasis on hygiene and sanitization in workplaces
Workers who stay adaptable, reliable, and open to varied work environments are likely to find consistent opportunities in Columbus.
Final Thoughts
The Cleaner and Housekeeper salary in Columbus, OH in 2026 reflects a labor market with steady demand and competitive wages for both entry-level and experienced workers. With average hourly pay in the mid-teens and prospects for growth through specialization or supervisory roles, this field offers dependable earnings and flexible opportunities—especially for those ready to build experience and broaden their skill set.