How Much Does It Cost to Clean a House in Columbus, Ohio?

What Is the Average Cost of House Cleaning Services in Ohio?

You know that moment when you finally sit down after a long day and glance around the house, only to spot crumbs under the table, toothpaste in the sink, and pet hair collecting along the baseboards? Most Columbus homeowners do. Between work, school schedules, and everything else life throws at you, keeping the house clean can feel like a full-time job. It's no wonder more people are hiring house cleaning services to take cleaning off their plates and give them their weekends back.

Still, it's normal to hesitate when you're unsure of the cost. And online estimates don't always help. They vary wildly and rarely explain what's included, leaving you confused and asking: What's the actual price for a good cleaning in Columbus? Will I be paying by the hour? Are there going to be unexpected fees tucked into the final bill?

In our opinion, getting familiar with the house cleaning cost in Columbus, Ohio, and knowing the answers to these pertinent questions can help you plan ahead without second-guessing your decision. However, we realize that comparing prices only gets you part of the picture; it's just as important to understand what goes into the quote, what factors affect the overall cost, and how to find the right fit for your home and schedule.

In this guide, we'll walk through the main things that influence house cleaning prices, share real-world price ranges, and offer helpful tips so you know what to expect. If you're looking for a clearer picture before your first cleaning, you're in the right place.

Get Started Today

Size of The Home

Size matters when it comes to house cleaning. Bigger homes naturally require more time, supplies, and often more cleaners to complete the job thoroughly. Even if only a few rooms are in use, the total square footage influences how companies estimate cost. For example, cleaning three bathrooms and a finished basement takes longer than cleaning a small condo, even if both are cleaned from top to bottom.

Type of Cleaning Service Required

Cleaning companies in Columbus typically offer different levels of service. A standard cleaning covers routine tasks like vacuuming, wiping surfaces, and tackling the kitchen and bathroom.

A deep cleaning, on the other hand, might include areas such as ceiling fans and inside cabinets and polishing overlooked corners that don't get cleaned on a weekly basis. Additionally, there are specialty cleaning services that can be added to your bill.

Each type of service has its own price point. If you're trying to keep your house cleaning costs in Columbus, Ohio, manageable, many companies, like us at The Maids of Columbus, recommend starting with a one-time deep clean and then switching to regular cleanings once things are under control.

Frequency of Cleaning

How often you schedule cleanings also plays a role in what you pay. Most cleaning companies offer discounts for bi-weekly or weekly cleaning compared to one-time or occasional appointments. That's because staying on top of regular cleanings tends to take less time than tackling buildup after a long break.

If you're looking for long-term help, ask about flat-rate packages or recurring service plans. These are often more budget-friendly and make it easier to plan your monthly cleaning costs.

Location Within Ohio

Where you live in Ohio can also affect pricing. In urban areas like Columbus, cleaning services may charge slightly more than in smaller towns, partly due to higher labor costs and travel time. That said, local demand, home styles, and even neighborhood accessibility can impact how cleaning companies set their rates.

If your home is in a harder-to-reach suburb or farther from a company's service area, some may include a travel fee, which is something to ask about early so it doesn't sneak into your total cost unexpectedly.

House Cleaning Cost Columbus, Ohio: What You Can Expect to Pay

So, how much should you actually expect to pay for house cleaning in Columbus, Ohio? The short answer is that it depends on your home's size, your preferred cleaning frequency, and the type of service you book, as you now know. That said, there are real-world averages that can help you plan and avoid surprises, especially if you're comparing cleaning companies in the area.

Small Homes and Apartments (1,000 sq. ft. or Less)

If you live in a one-bedroom apartment or a space under 1,000 square feet, expect to pay around $100 and $150 for a standard cleaning. That usually includes tasks like wiping surfaces, vacuuming, light dusting, and general bathroom and kitchen appliance cleaning. If you haven't had a professional cleaning in a while, or it's your first one, the pricing may range from $150 to $250 for a deep clean.

Some cleaning companies also charge by the hour, especially for smaller jobs. You can expect rates between $50 and $75 per hour per person. And the amount of people sent could vary from one to 4 people per team.

Mid-Sized Homes (1,400–2,000 sq. ft.)

For most Columbus homeowners in a three-bedroom, two-bath home, you'll likely pay around $150 to $250 for a standard cleaning and $250 to $400 for a deep cleaning. That's typical for homes between 1,400 and 2,000 square feet. What you'll get depends on the company, but common tasks include full bathroom cleaning, kitchen wipe-downs, floors, ceiling fans, dusting, and trash removal.

Should you require additional services, such as cleaning inside cabinets, organizing a closet, or wiping down baseboards, you may incur an extra charge. That's why it's a good idea to always ask if those tasks are included in a standard package or are priced separately.

Still unsure of how this would look for your home? Let's take Amy, a Columbus homeowner in Upper Arlington, as an example. She pays $160 every two weeks for bi-weekly cleaning that covers three bedrooms, two baths, common areas, and light dusting. Because she prefers natural products due to allergies in the house, she pays a small extra fee for custom cleaning supplies. This example shows how pricing shifts depending on your home's needs and preferences.

Larger Homes (2,400+ sq. ft.)

If your home is larger, expect higher house cleaning costs due to the additional time and labor required. Homes over 2,400 square feet typically fall into the $300 to $500+ range for deep cleaning, depending on the layout, number of bathrooms, and any custom requests. Larger homes may also require more than two cleaners, which can increase your total cost.

Many cleaning services in Columbus will offer flat or hourly pricing for larger homes. Just make sure to ask how the quote breaks down, as some companies may include add-ons like laundry, light organizing, or polishing floors in their pricing, while others charge for them separately.

Recurring Cleaning: Weekly and Bi-Weekly Rates

Recurring cleaning is usually where homeowners see the best value. Once the home has had an initial deep clean, weekly cleaning, or bi-weekly visits, it tends to take less time and is more affordable per visit.

For small to mid-sized homes, $120 to $180 per visit is typical.
For larger homes, $200 to $300 is more common.

As we mentioned before, some companies offer a discount when you schedule multiple cleanings upfront or sign on for regular cleaning frequency.

Recurring services often come with flat-rate pricing, which is helpful if you're trying to stick to a monthly house cleaning budget. Others still charge by the hour, especially if the cleaning checklist varies from visit to visit.

Additional Costs to Consider

While most quotes include standard cleaning tasks, there are a few extra costs that may not show up until you look closely or until your bill arrives. Understanding these extra costs upfront can help you avoid surprises.

Extra Services

Tasks like cleaning the inside of appliances, organizing closets, washing windows, or deep scrubbing tile grout are often priced separately.

If you're interested in anything outside the basics, ask for a full menu of optional services and their associated fees. Additionally, bundling add-ons with regular cleanings may result in a better rate.

Travel Fees

If your home is located outside a company's core service area—especially in more rural parts of Ohio or hard-to-reach suburbs—some companies charge a travel fee. This might be a flat rate or a per-mile cost. Be sure to ask if your location impacts the total price.

Cancellation or Late Booking Fees

Last-minute changes or short-notice bookings can sometimes trigger additional charges. Many companies require 24 to 48 hours' notice to cancel or reschedule an appointment without you incurring a fee. If you're booking during a busy season (like spring or the holidays), asking about cancellation policies upfront can save you money later.

Tips for Choosing a Reliable Cleaning Service

Price is important, but it's only part of the decision when you're hiring a cleaning service for your home. In a busy market like Columbus, you want more than just a good deal; you want a team you can fully trust to arrive on time, clean your space thoroughly, and treat your home and belongings with respect. Here are a few tips to help you find the right fit:

Do Your Research and Compare

Start by looking up cleaning services in Columbus with strong reviews. Sites like Google, Yelp, and Nextdoor are filled with genuine feedback from homeowners, many of whom reside in neighborhoods similar to yours. If a company consistently receives praise for its communication, punctuality, and attention to detail, it's usually a good sign.

Additionally, when comparing quotes, don't just look at the house cleaning cost in Columbus, Ohio; look at what's included. Does the company bring its own cleaning supplies? Will you get the same team each time? Is the quote easy to read? The answers to these questions will help you make the right decision.

Pro tip:

A surprisingly low quote might sound appealing, but always ask about hidden fees, how they define a "standard clean," and whether services like inside cabinets or ceiling fans are considered additional services.

Ask About Their Process

A reliable company should have a clear system in place, something like a detailed checklist, defined appointment windows, and clear communication. Ask how long a visit takes, how many cleaners are typically assigned, and whether you'll receive reminders ahead of each service.

Some companies in Columbus follow up after the first cleaning to make sure you're happy with the results. That kind of follow-through speaks volumes about service quality.

Prioritize Professionalism

The best professional cleaning services stand out for their consistency and attention to detail. Look for teams that are bonded and insured, wear uniforms, and have undergone background checks. These details matter, especially when someone is entering your home while you're at work or out with the kids.

Set Expectations Early

Being clear about what you need will help everyone feel more confident. Let the team know if you have pets, areas you'd prefer they avoid, or high-priority spaces like bathrooms or the kitchen.

Additionally, if you plan to switch from a one-time deep clean to weekly cleaning, it's helpful to mention this in advance so they can create a long-term schedule that works for you.

Ask About Cleaning Products and Tools

Don't assume every company uses the same materials. If you prefer natural products, scent-free cleaners, or tools that are safe for specific surfaces, check what they offer and what's included in the price. Some services charge extra for eco-friendly supplies or special care products, while others include them in the base price.

If your home has unique surfaces such as sealed hardwood, polished stone, or custom cabinetry, it's worth confirming that their team has experience with the right tools and cleaning products.

Make Sure They're a Good Fit for Your Schedule

If you're juggling school drop-offs, work meetings, or other recurring appointments, scheduling flexibility matters. Look for cleaning companies that can work around your preferred time slots or rotate with your calendar. Some offer morning or afternoon arrival windows, while others have more rigid schedules.

If you're booking bi-weekly or weekly cleaning, it helps to know what happens if you need to reschedule. Is there a fee? Will they try to send your usual team on a different day? These are small details that make a big difference once you're on a regular schedule.

Ask What Happens If Something Goes Wrong

Your appliances work hard and mostly function all the time. Keep your appliances looking great and running smoothly while giving them the refresh they deserve. We offer focused deep cleans for your most-used kitchen and laundry machines.

Even the best teams have off days. A trustworthy company should offer a guarantee or a re-cleaning policy. If you walk into a room after the cleaners have left and something feels incomplete, you should be able to reach out and have it addressed without any hassle or recharge.

Signs It's Costing You Not to Hire a Cleaning Service

If you've been putting off hiring a cleaning service to save money, it might be time to reframe the situation. For many Columbus homeowners, the real cost isn't on the invoice; it's in time lost, stress gained, and the endless cycle of trying to catch up.

Here are a few signs that the cost of not hiring help is adding up

Your Time Has Become More Expensive Than The Service

If you're spending 3 to 5 hours each week trying to stay ahead of the mess, that's time you're not using for work, family, or rest. When weekly cleaning services in Columbus start around $140 to $180, the tradeoff becomes pretty clear, especially when you factor in the cost of your own time.

The Mess Is Creating More Work Later

Neglecting areas like kitchen appliances, tubs, or inside cabinets for too long means those spots eventually take longer—and cost more—to clean. A neglected space often requires a full deep cleaning instead of a regular visit, which increases your total cost.

You're Dealing With Stress That's Hard To Quantify

No one likes coming home to dishes in the sink or pet hair in the hallway. That mental clutter can have real impacts, especially if you're juggling work and caregiving. Hiring an expert professional cleaning service gives you time and energy back, which many homeowners consider well worth the price.

If your routine is stretched and chores are swallowing your weekends, the question isn't whether you can afford to hire help. It's what you're already paying for by trying to do it all yourself.

What to Expect During Your First Cleaning Appointment

Booking your first cleaning can come with a mix of relief and curiosity, especially if it's your first time working with a professional cleaning service. Knowing what to expect alongside costs can help the appointment run smoothly and ensure you get the most out of it.

When to Book Cleaning Services in Columbus for the Best Value

There's never a bad time for a clean home, but there are definitely smarter times to book if you're hoping to get the best availability and pricing on house cleaning services in Columbus.

Plan Around Seasonal Demand

Spring and fall are Columbus' busiest seasons for professional cleaning services, thanks to post-winter resets, back-to-school routines, and holiday prep. Booking early during these months can help you lock in preferred dates and avoid higher last-minute cleaning fees.

Get Ahead Of Event Cleanings

Many homeowners wait until the last second before move-out cleaning, a party, or the arrival of out-of-town guests to schedule a deep cleaning and then end up paying rush fees or missing out altogether. Planning ahead, even by a week or two, gives you more control over your cleaning costs.

Look For Off-Peak Savings

Some cleaning companies in Columbus offer better rates during slower periods, such as midweek or mid-month. If your schedule is flexible, ask if there's a preferred time slot that provides better value. Even small adjustments to your booking time can significantly impact the total cost.

Good To Knows That Influence Costs

Cleaning costs aren't just about square footage or how many bedrooms you have. Sometimes, it's the everyday realities — such as a muddy entryway, a packed bathroom schedule, or limited parking — that ultimately affect the final bill. These aren't dealbreakers, but they do make a difference.

A few quick heads-ups to your cleaning team can save time, reduce confusion, and help keep your price where it should be.

Flag High-Traffic or High-Maintenance Areas Early

Even in smaller homes, a few high-traffic spaces—like a heavily used kitchen or a bathroom shared by multiple people—can take longer to clean than expected.

Make Access Easy to Maximize Your Time

We know that cleaners often charge based on time, whether it is hourly or by estimating a flat rate for a specific amount of time. So, if access to your home is delayed (e.g., due to locked gates, alarm systems, or clutter-blocking work zones), your total cost may increase.

Setting clear expectations, such as where to park or how to access rooms, helps your cleaning team stay on track and avoid extending the appointment, which can result in additional fees.

Factor in How Many People Live in the Home

A one-bedroom apartment shared by four people often needs more attention than a larger space with only one occupant. More people mean more traffic, more mess, and more frequent buildup in bathrooms, kitchens, and shared spaces. If you have kids, roommates, or multigenerational family members living together, be upfront about it; this helps the cleaning company provide an accurate estimate based on true usage, not just square footage.

Final Thoughts: What to Keep in Mind

A clean home isn't just about appearances. It's about coming home after a long day and not feeling overwhelmed by dishes, dust, or floors that need sweeping. For busy Columbus families, the value of a dependable cleaning service goes beyond the numbers. It gives you more space to breathe, more time for your family, and one less thing on your plate. Here are our key takeaways:

House cleaning costs in Columbus vary, but most reputable services fall between $150 and $300 per visit, depending on the size of your home, frequency, and the level of service required.
Deep cleans cost more upfront, but they often pave the way for more affordable recurring cleanings.
Extra charges can add up. Inquire about travel fees, special product requests, and optional services, such as appliance cleaning or organizing.
Quotes aren't just numbers. Read the fine print and clarify what's included before you book.
A reliable cleaning service saves more than time. For many busy families, it reduces stress, maintains healthier spaces, and frees up energy for what matters most.

Whenever you're ready to stop guessing and start enjoying a cleaner home, we're here to help. At The Maids Columbus, we offer a range of cleaning services tailored to your needs and budget, whether you're seeking a one-time deep clean or ongoing weekly or bi-weekly visits.

Our trained 3 and 4-person teams follow a proven 22-step cleaning process using HEPA-filter vacuums and environmentally preferred products for a detailed, healthy clean every time. We believe in transparent upfront pricing, no hidden fees, and clear communication, so you always know what you're paying for and why. Let us take cleaning off your plate and help you make the most of your time, your space, and your budget.

GET A QUOTE