Clean windows do more than just sparkle; they brighten your space, make your home feel fresh, and show that you care about upkeep.
But how much does window cleaning actually cost?
The answer depends on several factors: the number of windows, their size, how accessible they are, and whether you want both the inside and outside cleaned.
With so many different factors, it can be hard to know a fair price.
That’s why I pulled together real advice, tips, and actual cost examples shared by everyday homeowners and renters.
This blog is also based on community forums and honest discussions, not ads or company websites.
In this guide, I’ll break down average costs, what affects pricing, and smart tips to save money, no matter if you’re a homeowner or a business owner.
How Is Window Cleaning Priced?
Window cleaning companies use different pricing methods based on the size of the job, the type of building. This is a breakdown of the most common ways they charge:
| Pricing Method | Description | Typical Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per Pane Pricing | Charges based on the number of individual glass panes. | $4 – $12 per pane | Homes with small panes, retail storefronts |
| Per Hour Pricing | Billed by the hour for larger or complex jobs. | $40 – $75 per hour | Large homes, commercial buildings, hard-to-reach windows |
| Per Window Pricing | Counts each complete window as one unit, regardless of pane count. | $5 – $15 per window | Standard residential jobs |
| Flat Rate Pricing | A fixed cost for the entire job, often used in service contracts. | $150 – $370 per visit | Recurring commercial or residential cleanings |
Window Cleaning Prices for Homes and Businesses
Window cleaning costs can vary based on the type of building, how many windows you have, and how often the service is needed.
1. Residential Window Cleaning
For homes, prices usually depend on the size of the house, the number of windows, and whether the cleaning is inside, outside, or both.
- Single-story homes: $100–$180
- Two-story homes: $250–$400 or more
- Inside only: Often 60–70% of the full-service price
- Outside only: Typically 5–15% lower than full-service
- Both sides: Full-service average $150–$370
Most homeowners schedule cleanings once or twice a year, but some opt for quarterly services for better upkeep.
2. Commercial Window Cleaning
Offices, storefronts, and restaurants have different needs depending on their size and how often they want service.
- Storefronts: $2 to $8 per pane
- Office buildings: $0.50 to $2.50 per square foot
- Monthly or biweekly service contracts often lower per-visit cost
- First-time cleanings: May cost more due to the buildup.
Regular service helps businesses maintain a clean, professional appearance.
3. High-Rise Window Cleaning
Cleaning tall buildings requires trained crews, special gear, and strong safety measures.
- Per hour: $170–$200
- Per floor: $200–$500 per side of the building
- Additional fees: Setup, permits, or insurance requirements
Jobs like these are done by licensed, insured professionals and often require advanced scheduling.
Factors That Affect Window Cleaning Prices
Window cleaning prices can change a lot based on the details of the job. Below are the key factors that impact how much you’ll pay:
- Number of Windows or Panes: The more windows you have, the longer the job takes. Homes or buildings with lots of glass will cost more due to extra labor and time.
- Window Type and Size: French panes, storm windows, skylights, and large picture windows take more effort and care, which can raise the price.
- Accessibility: If windows are high up, behind furniture, or hard to reach from the outside, the job becomes trickier, which adds to the cost.
- Level of Dirt or Staining: Windows with heavy buildup, like mold, hard water stains, take more time to clean. Expect extra charges for deep cleaning or restoration work.
- Location: Urban areas usually have higher labor costs and pricing. Rural areas may have fewer providers, but lower overhead.
- Frequency of Service: A one-time cleaning usually costs more per visit. If you schedule regular service, like monthly or quarterly, many companies offer discounted rates.
Additional Services and Their Costs
Some window cleaning companies offer extra services that can improve results, but they usually come with added costs.
| Add-On Service | Description | Typical Cost | Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Screen Cleaning | Cleans window screens separately from glass. | $2 – $5 per screen | Keeps windows cleaner longer by filtering dust and debris |
| Track & Sill Cleaning | Cleans window tracks and sills for better appearance and function. | $1 – $3 per window | Improves look and prevents grime buildup |
| Gutter Cleaning | Removes debris from gutters, often offered by window cleaning companies. | $75 – $200 per job | Prevents water damage and improves drainage |
| Hard Water Stain Removal | Removes tough mineral stains from windows. | $10 – $30 per window | Restores glass clarity; uses special tools/cleaners |
| Interior Glass/Mirror Cleaning | Cleans mirrors or glass doors (e.g., shower doors, sliding doors). | $5 – $20 per item | Enhances full-room sparkle and cleanliness |
DIY vs. Professional Window Cleaning
Cleaning your windows yourself can save money, but it takes time and effort. Hiring a pro costs more but delivers faster, streak-free results – so which is right for you?
When to DIY?
DIY window cleaning is a great option for smaller homes, especially if your windows are all ground-level and easy to access.
If you’re comfortable using basic tools and have the time to invest, this can save money.
It’s also ideal for touch-ups between professional cleanings or when you’re doing seasonal home maintenance.
When to Call a Pro?
Hiring professionals makes sense for multi-story homes, windows with hard water stains, or if you’re short on time.
Pros have the right equipment for safety and efficiency, and they deliver streak-free results.
It’s also a good choice if you want a hands-off experience or need regular cleaning as part of home or business upkeep.
What Real People Say About Window Cleaning Costs
- One homeowner shared paying $180 for cleaning 15 windows inside and out, including screens.
- A small business owner pays $60 every two weeks for storefront cleaning on a per-panel rate.
- Another user with a two-story home received a $300 quote but negotiated it down to $240 by comparing quotes.
- Someone on a budget cleaned the ground-floor windows themselves and hired a cleaner for the upstairs only at $100.
- A condo owner in a high-rise said they paid $400 to clean two sides of the building due to safety gear and access.
- Another paid $10 extra per window for hard water stain removal.
These real examples from forums show how pricing changes based on location, difficulty, and how often you book the service. Comparing quotes can help you save.
Cost-saving tips
Window cleaning doesn’t have to cost a fortune. These are some smart ways to cut down on your total bill while still getting sparkling results:
- Bundle services: Ask for package deals that include gutter cleaning, screen washing, or pressure washing. Bundling usually costs less than booking each service separately.
- Book during off-season: Schedule your cleaning in fall or winter when demand is low. Many companies offer 10–30% discounts during slower months.
- Ask for discounts for regular service: Many cleaners offer lower rates if you book them weekly or monthly.
- Clean accessible windows yourself: Leave the high or tricky windows to the pros, but clean ground-level ones on your own to reduce total costs.
- Refer a friend: Some companies give referral credits or discounts if you send them new customers.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen, window cleaning prices can range widely depending on your location, the type of service, and how much you’re having done.
But hearing real stories from everyday people can give you a clearer idea of what to expect and help you avoid overpaying.
Some companies charge per window, others charge by the hour, or offer flat rates.
If you want to get the best deal, I recommend asking for quotes from A few different cleaners in your area.
It’s also smart to ask about any discounts some offer for deals if you clean your gutters or screens at the same time, or if you set up regular cleanings.
Keeping your windows clean doesn’t have to be expensive. With a little planning, you can save money and still get great results.
Compare local window cleaning prices today to get the best value and make your windows shine.