Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners Salary in Chicago, IL-IN

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN

Median annual salary $37,420 +4.1% vs national
Median hourly $17.99
10th percentile $30,680
90th percentile $49,350
Employed locally 72,020
National median $35,930

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    In Chicago, IL-IN, janitors and cleaners typically earn a median annual salary of $37,420, with an hourly wage of $17.99. This is slightly higher than the national median for this occupation, which stands at $35,930. When compared to the local area's median household income of $88,850, the earnings of janitors and cleaners represent approximately 42% of a typical household’s income. This comparison highlights the disparity between wages in cleaning professions and the broader economic landscape within the region. With an estimated employment figure of 72,020 individuals in this occupation, it underscores the significant number of workers contributing to the local economy, even as they earn below the median household level.

    The salary range for janitors and cleaners varies widely depending on experience levels. Entry-level positions are often at or near the lower end of the pay spectrum, with salaries starting around $30,680 (10th percentile). As individuals gain more experience, their earnings typically increase, reflected in a 25th percentile income of $34,970. Seasoned workers and those with specialized skills can earn significantly more, with experienced cleaners reaching incomes up to $44,250 at the 75th percentile and as high as $49,350 at the 90th percentile. The differences in earnings are driven by factors such as length of service, proficiency with various cleaning technologies, ability to manage larger or more complex assignments, and geographical location within Chicago's metropolitan area. These dynamics illustrate how experience and skill development contribute substantially to income potential for janitors and cleaners.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $30,680
    25th
    $34,970
    50th (median)
    $37,420
    75th
    $44,250
    90th
    $49,350

    Chicago economic context

    Unemployment rate 5.10% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $88,850 2023 • Census ACS
    Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners salary vs area income 42% Median Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners salary is 58% below the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners make per hour in Chicago?

    The median hourly wage for Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners in Chicago, IL-IN is $17.99, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $24.04 or more per hour.

    Is Chicago above or below average for Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners salaries?

    The median Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners salary in Chicago, IL-IN is 4.1% above the national median of $35,930. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners in Chicago?

    Entry-level Janitors and Cleaners, Except Maids and Housekeeping Cleaners (10th percentile) earn around $30,680 per year in Chicago, IL-IN. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $34,970.