How Much Does It Cost for Move Out Cleaning?
Moving out of a property comes with endless responsibilities, from packing and coordinating movers to final inspections. One of the most stressful but necessary tasks is move out cleaning. Whether you are trying to secure your security deposit, preparing a property for new tenants, or ensuring a home sale goes smoothly, hiring a professional cleaning service saves time and delivers peace of mind. But how much should you realistically expect to pay?
Read more to find a more accurate Seattle cleaning pricing, details on influencing factors, and what services are typically included.
Average Cost of Move Out Cleaning
In Seattle, the cost of move out cleaning generally ranges between $250 and $800, depending on the size and condition of the property.
Small apartments and studios: $170–$250
2-bedroom apartments or condos: $250–$400
3-bedroom houses: $400–$600
Large homes (3000 sq ft and above): $600–$1,000+
While national averages sometimes suggest $200–$500, these figures often underestimate what Seattle residents should expect. Higher labor costs, living expenses, and demand in the city push rates above those seen in smaller towns.
Factors That Influence Move Out Cleaning Prices
1. Property Size
Size is the most significant factor. A studio or 1-bedroom apartment may only take 3 to 4 hours to clean, while a 4-bedroom home with multiple bathrooms could require a full day of labor. More square footage means more surfaces, more rooms, and a higher price.
2. Number of Bathrooms
Bathrooms demand more detailed cleaning due to grout, tile, and fixtures. A property with multiple bathrooms will naturally increase labor time and overall cost.
3. Condition of the Property
A lightly lived-in home will be far quicker to clean than a property that has years of accumulated grime, stains, or pet hair. Heavy grease in kitchens or mold in bathrooms significantly raises the price.
4. Location
Urban markets such as Seattle command higher rates than suburban or rural locations. Labor wages, demand for services, and cost of supplies all factor into the final quote.
5. Depth of Service
A standard cleaning may include vacuuming, mopping, and surface wiping. However, move out cleaning usually requires deep services, such as cleaning behind appliances, scrubbing baseboards, and washing interior windows. These extras increase the total price.
What is Typically Included in Move Out Cleaning?
Most professional companies follow a structured checklist that ensures every area is spotless for the next tenant or buyer. Standard inclusions are:
Kitchen: Scrubbing stovetops, ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, counters, sinks, and cabinets.
Bathrooms: Cleaning toilets, tubs, showers, mirrors, grout, sinks, and fixtures.
Living Areas: Dusting blinds, wiping light fixtures, cleaning baseboards, vacuuming carpets, and mopping floors.
Bedrooms: Cleaning closets, dusting, and ensuring surfaces are spotless.
Floors: Deep vacuuming and thorough mopping throughout.
Optional add-ons may include carpet shampooing, wall washing, detailed appliance interiors, or garage cleaning.
Move Out Cleaning Costs by Property Type
Studio or 1-bedroom apartment: $170–$250
2-bedroom apartment or condo: $250–$400
3-bedroom home: $400–$600
4-bedroom home or larger: $600–$1,000+
These numbers reflect Seattle’s market realities, where living costs and labor wages are higher than national averages.
Flat Rate vs. Hourly Pricing
Most Seattle cleaning companies prefer flat-rate pricing, offering a clear cost upfront based on the property size. However, some charge hourly rates ranging from $40 to $65 per cleaner per hour. For larger or dirtier homes, flat-rate pricing provides more predictability and prevents surprises if the cleaning takes longer than expected.
Why Professional Move Out Cleaning is Worth the Cost
Secures deposits: For renters, spotless cleaning ensures you maximize your security deposit return.
Faster sales: For homeowners, a sparkling property makes stronger impressions on potential buyers.
Saves time: Professionals handle what would otherwise take you days of scrubbing.
Better tools: Professional-grade vacuums, steamers, and eco-friendly products deliver results you cannot achieve with store-bought supplies.
Tips to Keep Move Out Cleaning Affordable
Declutter before cleaners arrive – Remove trash, furniture, and personal items in advance.
Get multiple quotes – Comparing 2–3 companies ensures competitive pricing.
Bundle services – Combine carpet cleaning or exterior washing with move out cleaning for discounts.
Do small tasks yourself – Wiping walls, spot-cleaning stains, or vacuuming beforehand can reduce time billed.
Estimated Costs for Move Out Cleaning in Seattle
Small apartment (1 bedroom): $170–$250
2-bedroom apartment: $250–$400
3-bedroom house: $400–$600
Large 4+ bedroom house: $600–$1,000+
These numbers represent the true Seattle market. While smaller national estimates may appear cheaper, realistic local rates reflect higher wages and deeper service expectations.
Final Thoughts
Expect to pay $250 to $800 for a professional move out cleaning in Seattle, depending on property size, condition, and service requirements. While the investment may seem high, it ensures peace of mind, helps renters recover deposits, and gives homeowners confidence when presenting their property to buyers.
Seattle’s Reliable Choice for Move Out Cleaning
If you are moving out in Seattle or Auburn, trust Kairos Clean and Cozy for thorough, reliable, and detail-oriented move out cleaning. Our professional team ensures every corner is spotless, giving you the confidence that your property is move-in ready for the next person. A fresh start begins with a clean slate.
