The demand for cleaning and housekeeping professionals in Raleigh, NC remains steady as the city continues growing in population, hospitality, and service industries. Whether working in hotels, residential homes, or commercial spaces, cleaners and housekeepers play a vital role in maintaining clean and welcoming environments.
This comprehensive guide breaks down Cleaner/Housekeeper salary in Raleigh, NC for 2026, including average pay, experience-based earnings, influencing factors, job market trends, benefits, and regional comparisons to help readers understand earning potential and career outlook.
Average Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary in Raleigh, NC
Salaries for cleaners and housekeepers in Raleigh vary based on responsibilities, experience, and employer type. On average, these roles are competitive with the wider North Carolina market.
Estimated Salary Overview (2026)
| Job Title | Average Annual Pay | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Housekeeper | ~$30,372/year | ~$15/hour |
| Cleaner | ~$31,109/year | ~$15/hour equivalent |
| Housekeeper (Indeed data) | ~$15.29/hour | ~$31,800/year |
| Live‑In Housekeeper | ~$27,458/year | ~$13/hour |
Typical pay range:
👉 Roughly $26,000 to $38,000+ annually, depending on experience and job specifics.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience influences earnings significantly in cleaning roles, though gains can be incremental compared with more technical careers.
Housekeeper / Cleaner Experience Breakdown
| Experience Level | Expected Earnings |
|---|---|
| Entry‑Level | $26,000 – $28,000 |
| Mid‑Level | $28,000 – $32,000 |
| Senior / Experienced | $32,000 – $38,000+ |
Entry‑Level: Tasks include basic cleaning duties under supervision.
Mid‑Level: Greater responsibility with scheduling, inventory, and independent work.
Senior / Experienced: May include supervisory duties, specialized cleaning, or work in premium hospitality settings.
Regional data shows experienced cleaners and housekeepers have the potential for higher wages, especially when combining roles or taking on additional duties.
Key Factors Influencing Salaries
Several important factors affect how much cleaners and housekeepers earn in Raleigh:
1. Industry / Employer
Hotels and resorts often pay higher wages than private homes or basic cleaning services.
Large corporations and healthcare facilities typically offer higher base wages and benefits.
2. Experience and Skills
More experienced workers who can manage supplies, lead small teams, or handle specialized cleaning earn better pay.
3. Hours & Shifts
Full‑time positions with consistent hours and overtime can increase total earnings.
On‑call and weekend shifts may include premium pay.
4. Location
Urban areas like downtown Raleigh tend to offer slightly higher wages than smaller surrounding towns.
5. Tips & Additional Compensation
Some cleaners, particularly in residential settings or premium hospitality, may earn extra from tips, potentially adding $2–$7 per hour to income.
Job Market Trends in Raleigh, NC (2026)
Raleigh’s economy has diversified significantly, shaping the cleaning and housekeeping job market:
Growth in Demand
Hospitality and tourism: Hotels and short‑stay rentals require ongoing housekeeping staff.
Residential services: Busy households increasingly hire cleaning professionals.
Commercial services: Offices, healthcare, and institutional facilities need daytime cleaning crews.
Aging workforce: Strong demand for cleanliness and sanitation continues, especially post‑pandemic.
Job Stability
Overall job stability is moderate to strong for cleaners and housekeepers due to consistent demand in both public and private sectors.
Benefits of Working as a Cleaner / Housekeeper
While salaries may be modest compared to some industries, many positions offer useful employment benefits:
Flexible scheduling: Full‑time, part‑time, and shift options available.
Overtime pay: For extra hours, especially in hospitality or commercial contracts.
Stable demand: Regular repeat work from hotels and service contracts.
Skill development: Opportunities to specialize (e.g., green cleaning techniques, floor care).
Team roles: Pathways to lead cleaner or supervisor roles with higher pay.
Certifications and Skills That May Impact Salary
While formal certifications are less common in cleaning roles compared to technical trades, certain skills and training can increase earning potential:
Useful Credentials & Skills
OSHA/Health & Safety training – enhances employability in healthcare or industrial settings.
Specialized floor care / sanitation certifications – valuable for commercial contracts.
Customer service skills – important for residential and hospitality environments.
Leadership or supervisory training – helps qualify for senior roles.
Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary Comparison: Nearby Cities
| City | Avg. Hourly Pay / Annual Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Raleigh, NC | ~$15/hour / ~$30k–$32k/year |
| Durham, NC | ~$15.16/hour (housekeeper avg) |
| Asheville, NC | ~$16.76/hour (housekeeper) |
| Charlotte, NC | ~similar regional range |
| North Carolina Statewide Average | ~$14/hour / ~$29k/year |
Compared to statewide averages, Raleigh salaries for cleaners and housekeepers are slightly higher, though cost of living and competition can influence job availability.
Job Outlook Through 2026
The outlook for cleaning and housekeeping roles in Raleigh appears stable through 2026:
Hospitality sector growth continues with new hotels and events driving demand.
Healthcare facilities and offices require ongoing cleaning contracts.
Residential cleaning services grow with busy households and higher standards for hygiene.
While substantial wage jumps are uncommon without moving into supervisory roles, there is room for hourly rate growth, especially in premium or specialized cleaning services.
Final Thoughts
Cleaner and housekeeper positions in Raleigh, NC in 2026 offer solid entry‑level opportunities and stable work in both residential and commercial sectors. The salary range—typically around $26,000 to $38,000+ annually—can be influenced by experience, employer, and additional responsibilities. With consistent demand across hospitality, healthcare, and private services, this career path remains a reliable choice for individuals seeking regular work in a growing city.