If you’re considering a career as a cleaner or housekeeper in Honolulu, Hawaii, it’s important to understand how much you can expect to earn, what factors influence pay, and how experience and skills affect your income. Honolulu’s hospitality‑driven economy and high cost of living mean wages are often higher than national averages—but competition and job expectations are also strong.
This detailed guide covers salary ranges, earning factors, experience levels, career outlook, benefits, and comparisons to nearby cities to help you make informed career decisions in 2026.
Average Cleaner & Housekeeper Salary in Honolulu
Honolulu’s job market for cleaners and housekeepers reflects strong demand from hotels, resorts, private residences, and commercial properties.
Estimated Salary Range (2026)
Below is a combined view of typical earnings for cleaners and housekeepers in Honolulu:
| Role | Average Hourly | Estimated Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner | ~$19.15 per hour | ~$39,800* |
| Housekeeper (general) | ~$22.37 per hour | ~$46,500* |
| House Cleaner | ~$25.06 per hour | ~$52,100* |
| Hotel Housekeeper | ~$21.91 per hour | ~$45,500* |
| Maids & Housekeeping Cleaners | ~$26.32 per hour | ~$54,750* |
*Annual figures are approximate estimates based on hourly data multiplied by a standard full‑time schedule (40 hours/week). Source data from employer surveys and job postings.
Quick takeaway:
• Most cleaners and housekeepers in Honolulu earn between $19–$26+ per hour.
• Annual full‑time equivalent salaries often fall in the $40,000–$55,000 range.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience can significantly impact earnings, especially in hospitality settings where efficiency and reliability are valued.
Typical Pay by Experience (Housekeeper)
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage | Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (0–2 yrs) | ~$18.90 | ~$39,300 |
| Mid‑Level (3–5 yrs) | ~$22.37 | ~$46,500 |
| Senior/Experienced | ~$26.48 | ~$55,000+ |
These estimates are based on typical wage distributions reported for housekeepers in Honolulu.
What this means:
• Entry‑level workers typically earn closer to the low end of the range.
• Mid‑career professionals gain greater responsibilities and often move into supervisory or specialized roles with higher pay.
• Senior or high‑performing workers—especially in luxury hospitality or corporate settings—can exceed local averages.
Factors That Influence Earnings
Several factors play a role in how much cleaners and housekeepers earn in Honolulu:
1. Type of Employer
Large hotels and resorts often pay more than small residential cleaning services.
Luxury property cleaning roles may offer higher hourly rates.
2. Experience and Skill
Time on the job and familiarity with complex cleaning protocols increase hourly pay.
Experience with commercial or resort cleaning often commands a premium.
3. Job Responsibilities
Basic residential cleaning pays less than deep cleaning, inventory management, or supervisory tasks.
Specialized cleaning (e.g., post‑construction or medical facility cleaning) can offer higher compensation.
4. Certifications & Training
While not as common as in technical trades, gaining certifications in professional cleaning, safety standards, or hospitality services can help you stand out and potentially earn more.
5. Shift Type
Day shifts are common, but night, weekend, or holiday hours may pay more in some companies.
Part‑time positions typically pay hourly but without full benefits.
Job Market Trends in Honolulu (2026)
Strong Demand in Hospitality
Honolulu remains one of the most visited destinations in the U.S., supporting ongoing demand for cleaning and housekeeping services in hotels, resorts, and private vacation rentals.
Residential & Commercial Growth
With new developments and high local housing costs, demand for residential cleaning services continues to grow. This includes routine and deep‑clean services.
Seasonal Peaks
Tourist seasons, especially during holidays and summer, often increase demand for cleaning staff, leading to more temporary or part‑time opportunities.
Overall outlook:
Jobs for cleaners and housekeepers in Honolulu are stable and expected to grow steadily due to hospitality growth and ongoing service needs.
Benefits of Being a Cleaner or Housekeeper in Honolulu
While hourly wages are the primary compensation, many cleaners and housekeepers also enjoy:
Flexible schedules (part‑time or full‑time)
Overtime opportunities during high‑demand seasons
Tips and bonuses (especially in hospitality or luxury services)
Health benefits and paid time off in larger companies
Potential for career progression to supervisory roles
Cleaning Careers vs. Related Roles
| Job Role | Approx. Hourly Pay in Honolulu | Typical Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner | ~$19.15 | General cleaning duties |
| Housekeeper | ~$22.37 | Residential + hospitality cleaning |
| House Cleaner | ~$25.06 | Residential cleaning focused role |
| Hotel Housekeeper | ~$21.91 | Hotels/resorts |
| Senior Housekeeping | ~$26+ | Lead or management cleaning roles |
This comparison helps you see how pay varies depending on job focus and responsibilities.
Comparison With Nearby Cities
| City | Avg Hourly Pay for Housekeeper/Cleaner |
|---|---|
| Honolulu, HI | ~$22–$25/hour typical range |
| Kahului‑Wailuku, HI | ~$27/hour+ in some roles |
| Waikiki (Honolulu area) | ~$24–$25/hour |
| Oahu Island overall | ~$21–$22/hour |
Honolulu generally offers some of the highest rates in the state, largely due to tourism and cost of living.
Tips to Boost Your Earnings
Gain experience in hospitality settings for higher pay.
Train in specialized cleaning methods (green cleaning, sanitization).
Consider certifications in safety or hospitality services.
Build a strong reputation—clients often offer repeat work or tips.
Look for full‑time roles with benefits at larger hotels or resorts.
Final Thoughts
The cleaner and housekeeper salary in Honolulu, HI in 2026 reflects a competitive market driven by tourism, residential demand, and high living costs. With average wages above national levels and opportunities for growth with experience and specialization, this field offers a viable career path for those who enjoy steady work, flexible schedules, and the chance to work in one of the most energetic service economies in the U.S.