Whether you’re considering a career as a cleaner or housekeeper in Nashville, TN or just curious what these roles pay in 2026, this comprehensive guide breaks down the latest salary estimates, factors that influence earnings, experience‑based pay scales, job trends, benefits, and how Nashville compares to other nearby cities.
What Is the Average Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary in Nashville?
In Nashville, wages for cleaning professionals tend to be slightly higher than many parts of Tennessee due to strong demand in hospitality, healthcare, residential and commercial cleaning sectors.
Salary Overview (2026)
| Role | Average Pay | Typical Range |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner (Hourly) | ~$16.21/hr | $7.62 – $34.48/hr |
| Housekeeper (Hourly) | ~$17.08/hr | $11.29 – $25.85/hr |
| Housekeeper (Annual) | ~$29,369 | $27,339 – $31,946 |
| Professional House Cleaner (Annual) | ~$36,750 | $33,212 – $41,104 |
👉 These figures reflect 2026 reported data and show that, on average, cleaners and housekeepers in Nashville earn roughly $16–$18 per hour, with annual salaries depending on full‑time hours, experience, and employer type.
Salary by Experience
Experience plays a key role in how much you can earn:
Entry-Level (0–2 years)
Focuses on basic cleaning tasks like sweeping, vacuuming, dusting, trash removal.
Hourly Pay: ~$14–$16/hr average
Lower end roles may start near minimum wage but can improve quickly with experience and training.
Mid-Level (3–5 years)
Handles heavier cleaning duties; may work independently in homes, hotels or offices.
Hourly Pay: ~$16–$18/hr
Mid-level experience brings reliability and possibly more varied assignments.
Senior / Advanced (5+ years)
Often oversees teams, specializes in commercial or deep cleaning, or manages schedules.
Annual Salaries: Up to mid‑$40,000s or more depending on employer and skills.
Factors That Influence Cleaner / Housekeeper Earnings
Several elements impact how much cleaners and housekeepers make:
1. Type of Employer
Hotels, hospitals, and healthcare facilities sometimes pay higher hourly rates due to stricter cleaning protocols.
Independent cleaning services may offer varying rates depending on clientele.
2. Full‑Time vs Part‑Time
Full‑time positions generally provide steadier income and sometimes benefits.
Part‑time roles may pay by the hour without extra perks.
3. Specialized Skills
Experience in deep cleaning, commercial sanitization, or team leadership can lead to higher wages.
4. Location Demand
Nashville’s busy tourism and healthcare sectors keep housekeeping work in steady demand.
Job Market Trends in Nashville (2026)
Strong Demand Across Sectors
Nashville’s expanding hospitality industry—hotels, Airbnbs, event venues—keeps demand for cleaning professionals high throughout the year.
Healthcare and Residential Growth
Healthcare facilities and senior living homes also drive need for experienced housekeepers.
Increased Need for Professional Services
As residential properties increasingly rely on outsourced cleaning services, professional cleaners with consistent quality and reliability are highly sought after.
Overall, job openings for housekeepers in Nashville remain steady to growing as of early 2026.
Benefits Beyond Salary
While cleaning jobs are often hourly, some offer added benefits including:
Paid time off and holidays (especially in larger employers)
Overtime pay for additional shifts
Flexible scheduling — part‑time or full‑time options
Training programs that help improve efficiency and pay potential
Some employers may provide basic insurance benefits depending on hours worked
Career Progression
Cleaners and housekeepers can advance their earnings by:
Taking on lead cleaner or supervisor roles
Specializing in commercial or healthcare cleaning
Becoming quality assurance or training specialists
Starting their own cleaning business
Added responsibilities and leadership often correspond with higher wages.
Comparing Nashville With Nearby Cities
Here is how cleaner / housekeeper earnings in Nashville stack up against nearby locations:
| City/Town | Average Hourly Pay | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nashville, TN | ~$16–$17/hr | Slightly above TN state average |
| Pigeon Forge, TN | ~$19.6/hr for cleaners | |
| Franklin, TN | ~$18.27/hr for cleaners | |
| Sevierville, TN | ~$17.38/hr for cleaners | |
| Knoxville, TN | ~$13/hr for housekeepers |
Nashville tends to offer competitive pay within the state, though specific niche markets nearby may pay more for experienced cleaners.
Tips to Boost Your Cleaning Career and Earnings
Here are practical ways to increase income:
☑ Gain Experience
More experience often leads to higher pay and better job opportunities.
☑ Develop Specialized Skills
Deep cleaning, sanitization procedures, and supervision can command better wages.
☑ Work for Larger Employers
Hotels and healthcare facilities may offer steadier hours and better pay than small private gigs.
☑ Explore Supervisory Roles
Lead cleaner or team supervisor positions typically pay above average.
☑ Consider Certification
While not always required, certifications in professional cleaning standards or workplace safety can help differentiate you.
Final Thoughts
In Nashville, TN in 2026, cleaner and housekeeper salaries are competitive both locally and compared with the broader Tennessee market. With average pay around $16–$18 per hour and strong demand in hospitality and healthcare, these roles offer stable employment and opportunities for growth, especially for those willing to gain experience and take on specialized responsibilities.