When starting or managing a commercial cleaning business, one of the most important decisions is setting your hourly rate. Charge too little, and you may not cover your costs. Charge too much, and you risk losing clients. The right hourly rate depends on several factors, including your location, services offered, and the size of the job. In this blog, we’ll walk through how to decide what to charge per hour for commercial cleaning in a simple and practical way.
Understand the Basics of Hourly Rates
Hourly rates for commercial cleaning typically range from $25 to $60 per hour. However, this is not a fixed number and can vary based on your business size, equipment, and experience. Cleaning companies with trained staff and proper licenses often charge more than freelancers or new startups. It’s also common to offer package pricing for long-term contracts or larger commercial spaces.
Calculate Your Operating Costs
Before setting a rate, you must understand your operating expenses. This includes:
- Employee wages and benefits
- Cleaning supplies and equipment
- Insurance and licenses
- Travel and transportation costs
- Overhead like marketing or office rent
Once you know your monthly costs, divide that by the number of hours you plan to work. This gives you a minimum hourly rate to break even. Then, add a profit margin to get your final price.
Factor in Job Complexity and Property Size
Not all commercial cleaning jobs are the same. A small office with light cleaning needs will take much less time and effort than a large medical facility. You’ll need to adjust your hourly rate depending on:
- Type of facility (office, school, medical, warehouse)
- Level of cleaning required (basic, deep cleaning, disinfecting)
- Frequency of service (daily, weekly, monthly)
In areas like Georgia, the demand for Commercial Cleaning Services in Richmond Hill GA has increased due to business growth. Rates here typically fall between $35 to $50 per hour, depending on the property and service level. Research your local market to remain competitive while staying profitable.
Understand Industry Standards and Local Rates
Doing some local competitor research can help you find the average pricing in your area. You can:
- Check other cleaning companies’ websites
- Ask fellow cleaners or join online forums
- Use pricing calculators available on business support websites
This not only helps you set a fair price but also ensures that you’re not undercharging and losing money in the long run.
Offer Transparent Pricing and Build Trust
Clients appreciate clear pricing. If your hourly rate includes labor, supplies, and insurance, mention it upfront. Offering a price breakdown also builds credibility. Consider creating pricing tiers for different service levels. For example:
- Basic Cleaning: $30/hour
- Standard Package: $40/hour
- Deep Cleaning: $50/hour
Adding flexibility with flat rates for regular clients or discounts for large properties can help you retain long-term contracts.
Consider Staff Efficiency and Quality
If you’re working with a team, consider how many hours it will take for the group to complete the job, not just one individual. More experienced cleaners work faster and more efficiently, meaning you can handle more jobs per week and charge a fair rate without sacrificing quality.
Provide Estimates Based on Site Visits
Always try to inspect the commercial space before giving a quote. Each building has different layouts, floor types, and usage levels. An in-person visit allows you to offer a more accurate hourly or flat rate, reducing misunderstandings later.
Include Room for Growth
When starting out, you may charge slightly less to attract clients. But as your reputation grows, so should your rates. Businesses with a strong track record, trained staff, and modern tools can justify higher rates over time.
One example of a company that’s found the right balance is Wheaton Shine LLC, known for their consistency and professionalism in the cleaning industry. Many clients in the region have recommended them for their fair pricing and reliable services. Their approach to setting rates is a good example for new cleaning businesses trying to grow steadily without compromising quality.
Add Value with Specialized Services
To stand out in a competitive market, consider offering add-on services like:
- Carpet cleaning
- Window washing
- Floor waxing
- Post-construction cleaning
These can be priced separately or bundled with your hourly rate, depending on the client’s needs. Offering a full-service package often helps you secure more long-term clients.
Final Thoughts: Charge Smart, Stay Competitive
Setting your hourly rate isn’t just about covering your costs — it’s also about communicating the value of your work. If you offer excellent service, show up on time, and deliver consistent results, clients will be willing to pay your rate. Don’t be afraid to raise prices gradually as your skills and client base grow.
