How much does window cleaning cost in the US?

If you’re looking for a convenient way to have your dirty windows cleaned amid your busy schedule, you can always hire a residential or commercial window cleaner to do the job for you. But first, how much does window cleaning cost?

This guide discusses the factors that may affect window cleaning rates and how you can keep your expenses low.

What are the average costs of window cleaning in the US?

Due to differences in the cost of living, average window cleaning rates vary across the country’s major cities.

*Prices shown are typical total costs per job based on recent Airtasker data. Actual costs may vary.

What factors affect window cleaning rates?

Window washing prices are not typically fixed, since many factors, particularly the ones discussed in this section, can affect how much service providers in your area charge.

Property type and cleaning scope

Window washing in progress on tall glass panes set in a brick wall (Source: iStock)

Property type and cleaning scope can greatly affect how much you’ll have to pay for window cleaning. For instance, compared to an office building with several columns of hard-to-access windows, a one-bedroom apartment is comparatively smaller in scale and is therefore easier to deal with. So it’s not surprising that its window cleaning rate is significantly lower, as shown in the window cleaning price list below.

*Commercial prices are indicative. Large offices, apartment buildings, hotels, extensive glass façades, and properties requiring specialist access are usually priced after an on-site or virtual assessment.

Number, size, and total area of windows

In general, window cleaning services cost more when there is more to clean and when the total glass area is larger. This means hiring someone to clean the windows of a single-story Airbnb rental home won’t cost an arm and a leg, but doing the same for a multi-story shop with large display windows will definitely be pricey.

Building height and window accessibility

High-rise commercial window cleaning with rope access equipment and safety harnesses (Source: iStock)

Building height and window accessibility are also major determinants of service rates because they can spell the difference between a quick cleaning session and a laborious one.

For instance, the commercial window cleaning cost for high-rise buildings is steep because the process can be rather complicated and risky; cleaners have to use ladders, scaffolding, or specialized equipment to be able to access and scrub exterior windows. On the other hand, house window cleaning prices are not as high, especially if a residence only has one floor with easy-to-access ground-level windows.

Window type and design

The cost to clean house windows and commercial windows is partially dependent on window type and design. While scrubbing and wiping standard sliding windows made of aluminum or UPVC is usually straightforward, cleaning windows with fly screens, irregular shapes, stained glass panes, jalousies, or multiple frames can be a time-consuming and pricier endeavor.

Interior, exterior, or complete cleaning

Window cleaner wiping glass from inside a modern residential building (Source: iStock)

When setting a budget, don’t forget to consider which side of the windows (exterior, interior, or both) you want cleaned, as this can significantly affect how much a professional cleaner will charge.

For residential properties, exterior cleaning is typically cheaper than interior cleaning because there is no furniture to move and no surfaces to protect. Meanwhile, for commercial properties, especially multi-story structures, cleaning exterior windows may cost more since it involves a greater scope and more labor.

But generally, the cost to clean windows inside and out is more expensive than either interior or exterior cleaning due to the amount of work and time involved.

Window condition and specialist cleaning requirements

The current condition of your property’s windows can also affect cleaning costs; if they are in a poor state—with hard water stains, salt buildup, or other blemishes that even a thorough wipe can’t remove—making them look spotless may involve specialized tools, a longer cleaning session, and higher service rates.

Cleaning frequency and service agreement

Dusty window track and frame showing areas needing cleaning (Source: iStock)

Window cleaning prices partly depend on how often your windows get scrubbed. If they aren’t cleaned frequently, they’re more likely to accumulate grime and stains, leading to longer cleaning times and higher costs.

On a similar note, booking a cleaner for recurring services is usually cheaper per visit than a one-off cleaning session, since service providers often offer a discounted rate for regular bookings.

What are some ways to lower window cleaning charges?

Here are some tips to remember if you want to hire a professional cleaning service provider without having to shell out a large amount of money:

• Compare quotes from different window cleaners to choose someone who offers a fair rate.

• Book a window cleaner in advance to avoid same- or next-day fees.

• Schedule the service during a weekday or a non-holiday to get non-peak rates.

• Bundle window cleaning with other services, such as pressure washing or window repair, to save both time and money.

What should you look for in a professional window cleaner?

Take note of these questions while you’re in search of an experienced and reliable window cleaner:

• Do they offer fair and transparent window cleaning costs?

• Do they have significant experience with properties and windows that are similar to yours?

• Do they have the right tools and equipment to carry out the task?

• Do they have excellent reviews and ratings from their previous customers?

• Do they have the necessary license and certifications for the job (especially if they’re dealing with high-rise buildings or other unsafe locations)?

Clean your home’s or business’s windows with Airtasker

Manual glass cleaning with a squeegee and visible water droplets (Source: iStock)

If you’re looking for a professional window cleaner who can make your windows sparkly and pristine, signing up on Airtasker is a smart way to begin your search.

All you need to do is post a task on the platform, specifying your property, window type, budget, and location. And once Taskers start responding to your post, it’s time to negotiate rates, check reviews and ratings, and choose the best person or team for the job.