Average move out cleaning cost
A move-out clean takes roughly twice as long as a regular cleaning because everything gets cleaned, including the inside of cabinets, drawers, the oven and the fridge. With typical U.S. labor rates of $40–$55 per hour, here is what to expect:
| Home | Sq ft | Move-out | Deep clean | Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | 500 | $145 – $195 | $125 – $170 | $100 – $140 |
| 1 bed, 1 bath | 750 | $180 – $245 | $155 – $215 | $100 – $140 |
| 2 bed, 1 bath | 1,000 | $235 – $325 | $205 – $280 | $100 – $140 |
| 2 bed, 2 bath | 1,200 | $310 – $425 | $270 – $370 | $135 – $185 |
| 3 bed, 2 bath | 1,600 | $385 – $535 | $335 – $465 | $170 – $230 |
| 4 bed, 3 bath | 2,400 | $570 – $785 | $495 – $680 | $250 – $340 |
| 5 bed, 4 bath | 3,200 | $750 – $1,035 | $655 – $900 | $325 – $450 |
One-time price, average condition, average U.S. labor rates ($40–$55 per labor hour). Move-in cleaning of an empty home costs about the same as move-out cleaning.
Move out cleaning checklist
This is what landlords and property managers usually check before returning a security deposit, and what a professional move-out clean should cover:
- Inside all kitchen cabinets and drawers
- Inside and outside of the oven, stovetop and range hood
- Inside the fridge and freezer (pull out shelves)
- Inside the microwave and dishwasher
- Countertops, backsplash and sink
- Bathroom tub, shower, tile and grout
- Toilet, including base and behind it
- Bathroom cabinets, mirrors and fixtures
- Baseboards, door frames and doors
- Light switches, outlets and vents
- Spot-cleaning walls and scuff marks
- Window sills and tracks
- Closets and shelves
- Vacuum and mop all floors
What affects the price of a move-out clean
- Size and bathrooms. Bathrooms and kitchens are where most of the hours go.
- How dirty it is. Heavy grease in the kitchen, soap scum or pet hair can add 30% or more.
- Whether the home is empty. Cleaners work much faster without furniture and boxes, so book the clean after the movers leave.
- Extras. Interior windows, blinds, garages and carpet shampooing are usually extra.
Is a professional move-out clean worth it?
If your deposit is larger than the cleaning price, often yes. Landlords can deduct cleaning costs from a deposit when the unit is left dirtier than normal wear and tear, and they usually pay commercial rates to do it. Ask the cleaner whether they offer a re-clean guarantee if the landlord flags anything, and keep the receipt and before-and-after photos.
Frequently asked questions
How much does move out cleaning cost?
Most move-out cleanings cost between $180 for a small 1-bedroom apartment and $785 or more for a 4-bedroom house. A 2-bed, 1-bath apartment is about $235–$325.
How much should I charge for move out cleaning?
Cleaners usually charge about twice their standard-clean price, or $45–$60 per labor hour. Many quote a flat rate after seeing photos. Use our cleaning business pricing calculator to set a price that covers your labor and overhead, then send it with the free quote generator.
How long does a move-out cleaning take?
A 2-bedroom apartment takes around 5–6 labor hours, so a team of two finishes in about 3 hours. A 4-bedroom house can take 10+ labor hours.
Who pays for move-out cleaning, the tenant or the landlord?
Usually the tenant is expected to return the unit as clean as it was at move-in, minus normal wear and tear. If they don't, the landlord can deduct reasonable cleaning costs from the deposit. Check your lease and local tenant laws.
Is move-in cleaning different from move-out cleaning?
The work is nearly identical: a top-to-bottom clean of an empty home, including inside cabinets and appliances. Prices are about the same.