The pricing formula
Price = (labor hours × labor cost per hour + supplies) ÷ (1 − target margin)
Dividing by (1 − margin) gives you the margin you actually intend. Adding 30% to cost is a 30% markup, but only about a 23% margin on the selling price. The results show the markup that matches your margin so you can see the difference.
Where the hours come from
Labor hours are estimated from your numbers: square feet ÷ the square feet you clean per labor hour, plus extra minutes for each bathroom and any add-ons, times a multiplier for deep or move-out cleans. The example values are placeholders, not industry standards. The best source is your own timed jobs, which is why the guide's most important step is comparing quoted and actual hours.
Labor hours are not clock hours. Two cleaners working 2 hours is 4 labor hours; the calculator also shows the on-site time for the crew size you enter.
Pricing the first clean vs recurring visits
Many cleaners quote the first deep clean hourly or at a higher flat rate, then offer a lower recurring rate once they know the home. Run the calculator twice, once with a higher time multiplier for the first visit and once at 1 for recurring visits. The monthly figure shows what a recurring client brings in at the frequency you choose.
The price covers labor, supplies and margin. Your margin has to pay for overhead such as insurance, phone, software, advertising, vehicle costs and the unpaid time spent quoting and driving, and still leave a profit. Our house cleaning pricing guide goes through each step.
Frequently asked questions
What margin should I use?
There's no single right answer. It has to cover your overhead and leave profit. Work out your monthly overhead, then check that your margin on a typical month's jobs covers it.
Should I charge for travel time?
Unpaid drive time is a real cost. Either build it into your margin or add a travel charge for jobs outside your usual area.
Is my pricing data saved?
No. The calculator runs in your browser and nothing is saved or sent.
Read the full guide
Sources
Results are estimates for planning, not professional advice. Check the official sources above for rules that apply to you.