Move out cleaning for an apartment typically costs between $150 and $350, with averages around $230 depending on unit size, condition, and services requested. Key cost drivers include square footage, level of grime, cabinet cleaning, appliance interiors, and whether hallway or common areas are included. The following figures reflect current U.S. pricing and common market practices for move out cleanings.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Base cleaning (1–2 BR, 600–900 sq ft) | $150 | $230 | $320 | Typical surface wipe-down, floors, bathrooms, kitchen |
| Per sq ft pricing (cleaning only) | $0.15 | $0.30 | $0.60 | Varies by grime and access |
| Appliance interiors (oven, fridge, microwave) | $40 | $90 | $180 | Depends on appliance count and mounting |
| Cabinet and drawer cleaning | $20 | $60 | $120 | Includes shelves and knobs |
| Deep cleaning add-ons (baseboards, vents) | $40 | $100 | $180 | Not always included in basic package |
| Pet hair treatment | $10 | $40 | $120 | Higher if multiple pets or heavy hair |
| Window cleaning (interior) | $20 | $60 | $120 | Per window or per pane varies by size |
| Regional variance (urban vs rural) | $0 | $0 | $0 | Local labor costs apply |
Assumptions: Midwest labor rates, standard apartment layouts, normal access, standard cleaning tooling.
What Apartment Move Out Cleaning Typically Costs
For a typical 1-bedroom apartment around 600–750 sq ft, a standard move out clean commonly lands in the $150–$250 range, with most tenants paying about $200 on average. For 2-bedroom units in the 900–1,100 sq ft range, costs commonly run $210–$320, averaging near $270. Larger or duplex-style garden apartments can push the price toward $320–$350 if deep cleaning or heavy grime is present. Overall, the price depends on unit size, cleanliness level, and whether add-ons like appliance interiors or window interiors are included.
Breakout of Move Out Cleaning Cost Components
The quote usually breaks down into 4–6 cost components, helping renters compare bids. The table shows representative ranges with per-unit relevance.
| Component | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Labor | $60 | $120 | $260 | Hourly crew rates, typically 2–4 hours for 1–2 BR |
| Materials & supplies | $15 | $40 | $80 | Cleaning agents, degreasers, microfiber, gloves |
| Appliance interiors | $40 | $90 | $180 | Oven racks, fridge shelves, interior wipe |
| Cabinet & hardware detail | $20 | $60 | $120 | Knobs, hinges, interior cabinets |
| Windows (interior) | $20 | $60 | $120 | Per window or pane basis |
| Deep clean add-ons | $0 | $40 | $120 | Baseboards, vents, light fixtures |
Note: Some cleaners price by square footage or by room count, and many offer bundled packages that reduce per-service costs when multiple tasks are added together. Understanding the components helps renters decide which items are essential for the move-out condition.
Price Variability by Apartment Size and Condition
Size and condition are the primary price drivers. For a studio under 500 sq ft, base pricing often sits near $120–$180, while a 2-bedroom around 900–1100 sq ft tends to fall in the $210–$320 range. Unusual layouts, high ceilings, or heavy cabinet grime can push totals above the typical high range. For extremely dirty conditions or kitchens with multiple appliances, expect $100–$200 in add-ons beyond base cleaning. Size and grime level drive the bulk of the spread.
How Room Type and Surfaces Change the Price
Cleaning costs scale with room types and surface materials. Bathrooms with tile grout and hard-water buildup may require more time, adding $20–$60 to the bill. Kitchens with baked-on grease or recessed cabinetry can add $40–$120. Living rooms and bedrooms with hard floors may incur extra for dusting baseboards or vacuuming carpets. For vinyl or tile floors, labor can be lower than for wood floors that require delicate handling. Specific rooms and material depth are concrete price levers.
Regional Differences in Cleaning Prices Across the U.S.
Urban markets, coastal regions, and areas with higher living costs typically see steeper labor charges. A move out clean in a large city may be 10–25% higher than a suburban market with similar unit size. Conversely, rural markets may offer 5–15% lower rates when demand is slower. Homeowners and renters should request the regional delta when comparing bids. Region matters for both hourly rates and available package options.
Time and Labor Factors: Hours, Crew Size, and Scheduling
Labor is often the dominant cost driver. A typical 1-bedroom clean may require 2–4 hours with a 2-person crew, while a 2-bedroom could take 3–5 hours. Hourly rates commonly range from $40 to $80 per hour per crew member, depending on market and demand. Scheduling during weekdays can be cheaper than weekend slots in busy markets. Labor time and crew composition have a direct impact on total price.
Practical Ways to Lower Move Out Cleaning Costs
Renters can reduce the bill without compromising result by adjusting scope and timing. Consider prioritizing essential tasks (bathroom and kitchen, then floors), choosing a standard package over a deep-clean add-on, and combining move-out cleaning with other services if available. Scheduling midweek, requesting a single quote with a clear scope, and requesting discounts for off-peak periods can yield savings. Scope control and timing are the most reliable price reducers.