Building Cleaning Workers earn $36,510 median salary: Pay, outlook & how to start (2025)
Building cleaning workers earn a median annual salary of $36,510, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. The typical range runs from $28,320 at the 10th percentile to $49,940 at the 90th percentile, with the average worker pulling in $38,340 per year — roughly $18 an hour. It's a massive occupation, employing over 3 million people across the U.S., from office janitors to custodians in schools and hospitals.
How much Building Cleaning Workers earn
Median pay for the occupation sits at $36,510 annually. Half of all workers earn between that and the lower end, while the top 10% bring home nearly $50,000. The mean wage of $38,340 hints that higher earners push the average above the median. Pay usually scales with experience, shift differentials (overnight or weekend work often pays more), and the type of facility — hospitals and industrial sites tend to pay more than schools or retail.
Overtime is common, especially for workers covering multiple buildings or events. Many cleaners are paid hourly, so actual take-home can vary with hours worked. Part-time positions are plentiful, but full-time roles typically include benefits like health insurance.
Pay by state
BLS data shows wide geographic variation in pay. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia ($46,970 mean), Massachusetts ($44,580), and New York ($43,940). On the lower end, Mississippi ($27,900), Louisiana ($28,610), and Arkansas ($28,890) pay the least. Keep in mind cost-of-living differences. A $36,000 salary in Mississippi goes further than the same number in Massachusetts, but the financial trade-offs are real.
How to become Building Cleaning Worker
No formal education beyond a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Most training happens on the job: learning which cleaning chemicals to use, how to operate equipment like floor buffers and industrial vacuums, and safety protocols. Some employers prefer applicants with a valid driver's license, especially for jobs covering multiple sites.
- Step 1: Get a high school diploma or GED (not always mandatory but helps).
- Step 2: Apply for entry-level positions — janitor, custodian, cleaner. Many postings don't require experience.
- Step 3: Complete on-the-job training (usually lasts a few days to a few weeks).
- Step 4: Consider earning optional certifications like the CMI (Cleaning Management Institute) or OSHA safety certifications to stand out.
- Step 5: With experience, move into supervisory roles or specialize (e.g., hazardous waste cleanup).
Job outlook
The BLS does not project growth for this occupation specifically for 2024–2034, but historically, demand for cleaners remains steady. Buildings always need cleaning. Turnover is high, which means openings appear regularly. Economic downturns can slow hiring in commercial real estate, but healthcare and education facilities provide relatively stable employment.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a building cleaning worker?
Entry-level workers typically earn around the 10th percentile — $28,320 annually, or about $13.60 an hour. Some part-time roles pay minimum wage.
Do building cleaning workers get benefits?
Full-time workers often receive health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. Part-time and contract positions may not include benefits.
How can I increase my pay as a building cleaner?
Overtime, night shifts, and working in higher-paying industries like hospitals or manufacturing boost income. Certifications in specialized cleaning or supervisory roles also help.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Building Cleaning Workers data.