How Much to Charge for Cleaning Vacation Rentals?
Quick Answer: Most cleaners charge $80 to $150 for a studio or one bedroom vacation rental, $130 to $250 for a two bedroom unit, and $180 to $350 or more for larger homes. Dense markets like Los Angeles often sit near the top of these ranges. Many pros use flat rate pricing for turnovers, while some still charge an hourly cleaning fee of $25 to $50 per hour.
Key Takeaways
- Flat rate pricing works best for short term rentals because guests expect a predictable vacation rental cleaning fee.
- Property size, guest turnover speed, and add on services all shape your final Airbnb turnover cleaning rates.
- Review your pricing every three to six months so your rates keep pace with supply costs and demand.
Average Vacation Rental Cleaning Rates
Short term rental cleaning cost varies by location, property size, and turnover workload. Busy markets like Los Angeles typically run toward the higher end.
| Property Size | Average Price Range |
| Studio / 1 Bedroom | $80 to $150 |
| 2 Bedroom | $130 to $250 |
| 3+ Bedroom | $180 to $350+ |
These numbers shift based on your market, so treat them as a baseline rather than a fixed rule.
Common Vacation Rental Pricing Models
Flat Rate Pricing
Flat rate pricing charges one set fee per turnover, no matter how long the job takes. Hosts like this model for its predictable budgeting, and cleaners like it because efficient work pays off directly.
Hourly Rates
An hourly cleaning fee suits properties with unpredictable messes, like homes with pets or frequent large groups. This model protects your income on long jobs, but it can feel unpredictable to hosts.
Per Square Foot Pricing
Some cleaners charge a small fee per square foot, often $0.08 to $0.15. This method suits larger properties where flat rates undervalue the time required.
Factors That Influence Your Cleaning Fees
Several details push your price up or down. Guest turnaround time matters most, since same day turnovers with a tight window carry a rush fee. Property condition matters too, as a messy checkout takes longer to reset. Location plays a role, since rates in major cities like Los Angeles run higher than in smaller towns. Bathroom and bedroom count also affects labor time, since linens take the most effort.
A simple cleaning fee calculator that factors in square footage, bedroom count, and average time on site helps you land on a fair number for every property.
Extra Services and Add On Charges
Add ons boost revenue without raising your base rate. Build a turnover service checklist listing which tasks count as standard and which cost extra.
- Laundry and linen service (wash, dry, fold)
- Deep cleaning for move in or seasonal resets
- Restocking supplies like toiletries and paper products
- Pet hair removal and odor treatment
- Window cleaning or patio and balcony cleaning
- Trash and recycling haul away
Charging separately for these tasks keeps your base price competitive while still covering your labor.
For hosts with multiple listings, a reliable vacation rental cleaning team removes the guesswork from pricing. For a full breakdown of a standard turnover, see this Airbnb cleaning checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I charge a flat rate or an hourly rate for Airbnb cleaning?
Most short term rental cleaners prefer flat rate pricing because it gives hosts a predictable cost and rewards efficient work. Hourly rates suit properties with inconsistent mess levels, like homes with pets or large groups.
Who pays the vacation rental cleaning fee?
The guest typically pays the cleaning fee as part of the total booking cost on platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. Hosts set the fee and collect it through the platform at checkout.
How much extra should I charge for laundry service?
Laundry add ons usually run $10 to $25 depending on load count and linen volume. Larger properties with more bedrooms often need a higher laundry fee due to added sheets and towels.
What factors increase the turnover cleaning fee?
Same day turnovers, larger square footage, pets, and extra bathrooms all raise the fee. Properties left in poor condition by guests also require extra time and cost more to service.
How often should I reevaluate my cleaning rates?
Review your pricing every three to six months to account for supply costs and local market changes. Checking your house cleaning pricing guide regularly keeps your rates competitive.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
Pricing vacation rental cleaning comes down to knowing your market, your time, and your true costs. Start with flat rate pricing, add clear charges for extras, and adjust your numbers as your business grows. A fair rate keeps hosts happy and your business profitable.