When you’re hiring a janitorial service, one question you might not think to ask is, “How much are their cleaners paid?” But that detail can reveal a lot. Pay rates don’t just reflect the value placed on workers—they often impact how your building is cleaned, how long employees stay, and how reliable the service is over time.
Here’s why janitor wages should be on your radar if you oversee facility operations.
The Numbers Behind the Work
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that more than 2.1 million janitors and cleaners work in the U.S. today. The typical annual wage is around $31,990, but this amount changes based on where the job is, how experienced the worker is, and the type of work involved. Cities and high-cost areas usually offer higher wages, which makes sense when comparing proposals from vendors in different regions. A rock-bottom bid might be cutting costs where it matters most—labor.
Why Compensation Affects More Than the Budget
1. Better Pay = Better Work
When cleaning staff earn a fair wage, they’re more motivated to do a great job. Cleaners who feel respected through their paycheck are more likely to take ownership of their work and deliver consistent results.
2. Stability Through Fairness
Janitorial teams with decent pay stick around longer. That kind of stability leads to cleaners who know your building, understand your expectations, and keep things running smoothly without frequent retraining or missed details.
3. Attracting Reliable Professionals
Good pay draws in better candidates. Whether it’s experience, attention to detail, or a stronger work ethic, a better-paid workforce tends to deliver a higher level of service. If your cleaning company pays well, you’re more likely to get a skilled, dependable crew.
4. Look Past the Price Tag
While cost matters, it shouldn’t be the only thing you consider. Ask vendors how they treat and compensate their employees. A company that invests in its people is more likely to invest in your facility, too. And that shows up in the day-to-day quality of their work.
Final Thoughts
A cleaning contractor’s pay structure speaks volumes. Vendors that offer competitive wages are usually the ones delivering better, more consistent service. When you’re reviewing options, don’t just compare prices—dig into how they take care of their team. That simple question can help you choose a partner who delivers value where it really counts: keeping your facility clean, professional, and problem-free.
