How Much Does Commercial Cleaning Cost in New York City?
If you manage a building in New York, one of your biggest operational questions is simple: “How much should we budget for cleaning?”
The cost of commercial cleaning in NYC depends on your square footage, cleaning frequency, and industry standards. A law office in Midtown has different needs than a fitness center in Brooklyn or a restaurant in Queens.
To help you get a realistic picture, here are the most common questions facility managers across New York ask — with straightforward answers.
Quick Answers: Commercial Cleaning Costs in New York City
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Why Cleaning Costs Vary in New York City
Commercial cleaning costs in NYC are shaped by more than just building size:

- Labor rates are higher than in many U.S. markets, especially in Manhattan.
- Building access can add cost — after-hours service, freight elevators, and union requirements all factor in.
- Industry compliance (health inspections for restaurants, OSHA in construction, HIPAA in medical) raises the bar for certain facilities.
Key Factors That Impact Pricing:
Square Footage
The larger your building, the more time it takes to clean. Bigger spaces may see a lower per-cleaning rate, but the monthly spend always scales with square footage.
Cleaning Frequency
An office cleaned once per week costs more per visit than one cleaned five nights per week, but the monthly total increases with frequency. High-traffic NYC buildings (gyms, medical, retail) often require daily service.
Industry Requirements
- Medical & Healthcare: Strict disinfecting and compliance with state and federal standards.
- Gyms & Fitness Centers: Heavy traffic, odor control, and equipment sanitization.
- Restaurants: Grease removal, restrooms, and compliance with NYC Health Department standards.
- General Offices: Routine cleaning with lower compliance requirements.
Building Layout & Surfaces
Buildings with multiple restrooms, shared kitchens, or specialty flooring (marble, stone, carpet) require more time and skill to clean — which increases cost.
What New York Businesses Typically Spend
From GermSmart’s experience serving NYC, most businesses budget $1–$2 per sq. ft. annually for janitorial services. That means:
- 5,000 sq. ft. office: about $6,500–$9,500/year
- 20,000 sq. ft. facility: about $25,000–$40,000/year
Facilities like gyms, medical offices, and restaurants generally spend 30–50% more due to higher standards and cleaning intensity.
How to Get an Accurate Quote
Every building in New York is different. The only way to get accurate pricing is with a walkthrough. That allows a cleaning provider to:
- Measure your exact square footage.
- Identify high-traffic and specialty areas.
- Recommend a cleaning schedule tailored to your building.
Final Thoughts
Commercial cleaning costs in New York City vary based on your facility size, cleaning frequency, and industry requirements.
While most businesses fall between $900 and $7,000+ per month, the real difference comes from choosing a partner who delivers consistency and peace of mind.
If you’re ready to take the stress out of facility maintenance, contact GermSmart Commercial Cleaning today to schedule your free walkthrough and custom proposal.