Moving into a new home should feel exciting—not stressful. But before unpacking your boxes, you want to make sure the place is spotless. That’s where move in cleaning comes in. The big question is: how much does a move in cleaning cost? Let’s walk through everything you need to know before booking this essential service 🧼
What Is Move In Cleaning?
Move in cleaning is a deep, detailed service designed to sanitize every corner of your new space before you officially move in. Unlike basic cleaning, it goes beyond surface-level tasks. You can expect:
- Cleaning and disinfecting kitchens and bathrooms
- Wiping cabinets, shelves, and drawers inside and out
- Dusting all surfaces, baseboards, and light fixtures
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Cleaning appliances, including ovens and fridges
- Sanitizing door handles, switches, and high-touch areas
It’s perfect for newly purchased homes, apartments, or rentals—especially if you’re unsure how well the last occupants cleaned.
How Much Does a Move In Cleaning Cost on Average?
Most cleaning companies offer flat-rate pricing based on the size and condition of your space. Here’s a breakdown:
- 🏡 1-bedroom apartment: $150–$250
- 🏠 2–3 bedroom home: $250–$400
- 🏘️ 4+ bedroom house: $400–$600+
Keep in mind these are general ranges. Your final price may vary depending on several important factors.
Factors That Influence Move In Cleaning Cost
1. Size of the Property
The larger your home, the longer it takes to clean—and the more it costs.
2. Property Condition
A home that’s been empty for a while might have dust buildup or cobwebs. That adds time and effort to the job.
3. Specific Services Needed
Do you need carpets shampooed? Windows washed? Walls scrubbed? Extras like these increase the total cost.
4. Location
Rates vary by region. Urban areas typically charge more than rural ones due to labor costs and transportation.
5. Last-Minute Requests
Need a cleaner tomorrow? Urgent bookings may come with a premium fee, especially during weekends or holidays.
Flat Rate vs. Hourly Pricing
Most companies offer one of two pricing models:
Flat Rate
👍 Predictable and easy to budget
👍 Based on home size, not time
👎 May cost more if your home is cleaner than expected
Hourly Rate
👍 Potentially cheaper for light cleaning
👎 Risk of longer job times and unclear totals
In general, flat rates work best for move in cleanings—they keep expectations clear and pricing transparent.
DIY or Hire a Professional?
You could try cleaning the space yourself, but here’s why hiring a pro is usually worth it:
- 🧽 Pros have the right equipment and cleaning products
- ✅ They know where hidden dirt hides
- ⏱️ Saves you hours during a stressful move
- 🛡️ Reduces exposure to leftover germs, bacteria, or pet dander
Plus, you won’t need to rush to buy supplies or figure out how to clean an oven that hasn’t been touched in years.
How to Save Money on Move In Cleaning
Here are a few smart ways to reduce costs:
- Clean light areas yourself and leave heavy-duty tasks to the pros
- Book early and avoid peak weekend rates
- Ask if bundling move in + move out services gets you a discount
- Choose essential rooms (like kitchen and bathrooms) instead of the entire house
- Remove trash and boxes beforehand to make the job faster
These small steps can help you stay within budget while still getting a thorough, high-quality clean.
Why Choose sjtimprovement.com for Move In Cleaning?
At sjtimprovement.com, we’re proud to offer move in cleaning services that are:
- 🔍 Transparent: You get clear flat-rate pricing—no surprises
- 🚚 Flexible: Bookings that match your moving schedule
- 🧤 Thorough: We clean where others forget
- 🛡️ Safe: We use eco-friendly products and disinfectants
- 💬 Supportive: Quick quotes and responsive service
We’ve helped hundreds of homeowners and tenants feel confident stepping into their new space. Let us take cleaning off your to-do list so you can focus on what matters most: settling in.
Final Thoughts
So, how much does a move in cleaning cost? On average, anywhere from $150 to $600, depending on your space and needs. But when you factor in time, effort, and peace of mind, hiring a professional is one of the best decisions you can make during a move.
Get your personalized quote today at sjtimprovement.com and step into your clean, fresh start with confidence!








