If you’re considering a career as a cleaner or housekeeper in Seattle, Washington in 2026, it’s important to understand how much you can earn, what factors influence your pay, and what the local job market looks like. Seattle’s vibrant economy, high cost of living, and strong minimum wage policies make this role particularly interesting for job seekers and career planners alike.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll dive deep into average salaries, experience-based pay, influencing factors, job trends, benefits, and how Seattle compares with other cities across the region.
Average Cleaner / Housekeeper Salary in Seattle, WA
Salaries for cleaners and housekeepers in Seattle vary depending on job title, experience, and employment type.
Annual and Hourly Salary Range
| Role | Annual Salary (Approx) | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaner / Housekeeper (avg) | ~$33,000–$34,400 | ~$16–$17/hr |
| Housekeeper (reported job listings) | ~$40,900–$63,100 | ~$24/hr job listings |
| Live‑In Housekeeper | ~$30,918 | ~$15/hr |
| Housekeeper (Indeed data) | ~$23.05/hr | — |
| Cleaner (Indeed) | ~$22.38/hr | — |
👉 Typical annual pay for a cleaner / housekeeper in Seattle in 2026 ranges from about $30,000 to over $60,000, heavily influenced by full‑time jobs, specialized roles, and employer type.
Salary by Experience Level
Experience influences earnings, though the progression for cleaners and housekeepers tends to be more gradual compared to technical professions.
Rough Experience‑Based Breakdown
| Experience Level | Expected Salary |
|---|---|
| Entry‑Level (<1 year) | Around $30,000–$32,500 |
| Early Career (1–3 years) | ~$32,700–$34,000 |
| Mid‑Level (4–6 years) | ~$34,000–$36,000 |
| Experienced (7+ years) | Can exceed ~$36,000+ |
While these figures represent average market data, individual employers such as upscale hotels or contract cleaning companies may pay significantly more, especially as part of full‑time benefits packages.
Factors That Influence Cleaner / Housekeeper Earnings
Various elements affect salaries in the housekeeping and cleaning sector in Seattle:
1. Location Within the Region
Seattle’s higher cost of living and strong minimum wage increase the base pay compared with smaller cities.
2. Type of Employer
Working for luxury hotels or corporate cleaning firms can command higher wages than general residential cleaning roles.
3. Employment Type
Full‑time positions often include benefits, while part‑time or live‑in roles may vary in pay and require different skill sets.
4. Skill Set
Specialized cleaning techniques, laundry services, or deep‑cleaning expertise can justify higher pay.
5. Experience & Tenure
Longer tenure often leads to raises, preferred shifts, or leadership roles in commercial settings.
Job Market Trends in Seattle (2026)
The housekeeping and cleaning industry in Seattle is shaped by several economic trends:
Minimum Wage Growth: Seattle has one of the highest local minimum wages in the U.S., exceeding $20.76 per hour, which raises the baseline for many cleaning roles.
Continued Demand: Growth in housing, hospitality (hotels, events), and commercial spaces sustains ongoing demand for cleaners and housekeepers.
Wage Growth: Early‑career wages in Seattle have risen approximately 5% annually, benefiting a range of service jobs including housekeeping.
Hospitality Expansion: With a strong tourism market, especially in downtown and waterfront areas, hotel housekeeping positions remain steady.
Benefits of Being a Cleaner / Housekeeper in Seattle
Working as a cleaner or housekeeper in Seattle offers several perks:
Competitive hourly rates relative to national averages.
High minimum wage protection for many entry‑level roles.
Potential benefits with full‑time employment (health insurance, paid time off).
Flexibility in schedule and employment type (part‑time, shift work, live‑in).
Training opportunities with larger employers.
Seattle vs Nearby Cities: Salary Comparison
| City | Approx. Avg Hourly Wage |
|---|---|
| Seattle, WA | ~$22–$24+ |
| Bellevue, WA | ~$21–$22 (housekeeper) |
| Redmond, WA | ~$20–$21 (housekeeper) |
| Tacoma, WA | ~$20–$21 (housekeeper) |
Seattle generally leads the region for higher wages due to its strong labor market and wage standards.
Job Outlook for Cleaners / Housekeepers in Seattle
The outlook for cleaning professionals in Seattle is steady to positive:
Growing urban housing and hospitality sectors keep demand high.
Elevated minimum wage levels support wage growth.
Ongoing need for cleaning services in offices, residential buildings, and healthcare facilities.
Overall employment opportunities remain diverse and consistent, especially for reliable and skilled workers.
Tips to Maximize Earnings
If you want to increase your pay as a cleaner or housekeeper:
Seek full‑time positions with benefits.
Gain certifications in specialized cleaning (e.g., commercial, hospital standards).
Build experience with reliable performance.
Target higher‑paying employers, such as upscale hotels or office complexes.
Offer additional services, like laundry or organizing.
Conclusion
In Seattle, WA in 2026, cleaner and housekeeper roles offer competitive wages that reflect the city’s strong minimum wage policies and cost of living. While the typical annual salary range is around $30,000–$63,000+ depending on role, experience, and employer type, hourly earnings often exceed national averages, making housekeeping and cleaning jobs a viable option for many workers.
Strong demand across residential, commercial, and hospitality sectors, combined with ongoing job openings, ensures opportunities for entry‑level workers and experienced professionals alike. Whether you’re considering this as a full‑time career or flexible work, Seattle’s labor market remains supportive of growth in the cleaning industry.