Quick Answer
Deep cleaning in San Diego costs $200-$400 for a typical 2-3 bedroom home. Studios and 1-bedrooms run $150-$250, while larger homes (4+ bedrooms) cost $400-$800+. Prices vary based on home condition, number of bathrooms, pets, and specific services requested. Most companies quote flat rates rather than hourly to protect you from unexpected costs.
Whether you're preparing for guests, moving into a new home, or simply overdue for a thorough cleaning, knowing what deep cleaning costs in San Diego helps you budget appropriately and avoid sticker shock.
Deep cleaning costs more than regular maintenance cleaning because it's far more comprehensive. Where a standard clean takes 2-3 hours and focuses on visible surfaces, deep cleaning runs 4-8 hours and addresses baseboards, ceiling fans, blinds, light fixtures, and all those neglected nooks and crannies. Inside appliances like the oven and refrigerator are available as add-ons.
Let's break down what you can expect to pay in San Diego, what factors affect pricing, and how to get the best value for your money.
San Diego Deep Cleaning Prices by Home Size
| Home Size | Sq Ft | Price Range | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio/1-Bedroom | Under 800 sq ft | $150 - $250 | 2-3 hours |
| 2-Bedroom | 800-1,200 sq ft | $200 - $300 | 3-4 hours |
| 3-Bedroom | 1,200-2,000 sq ft | $300 - $400 | 4-6 hours |
| 4-Bedroom | 2,000-3,000 sq ft | $400 - $500 | 5-7 hours |
| 5+ Bedroom / Estate | 3,000+ sq ft | $500 - $800+ | 6-10 hours |
*Prices reflect 2024 San Diego market rates based on average home conditions. Actual quotes may vary.
What Affects Deep Cleaning Price?
Square footage is the starting point, but several factors can adjust your final quote:
Home Condition
Up to +50%Heavily soiled or previously neglected homes cost more
Number of Bathrooms
+$25-50 eachAdditional bathrooms add time and complexity
Pets
+10-20%Pet hair, dander, and odor removal adds labor
Kitchen Appliances
+$20-50 eachInside oven or refrigerator cleaning (add-on services)
Windows (interior)
+$5-10 eachDetailed window cleaning beyond basic wipe-down
Frequency Discount
-10-15%Recurring customers typically receive discounts
San Diego Cleaning Costs vs. Other Cities
San Diego's cleaning costs fall in the middle-to-upper range for major California cities:
Deep Cleaning Market Comparison
- San Francisco Bay Area$350-$550
- Los Angeles$250-$450
- San Diego$200-$400
- Sacramento$175-$350
- Phoenix$150-$300
*Ranges represent typical costs for a 3-bedroom home in average condition.
Our relatively higher costs reflect San Diego's cost of living, labor market, and high demand for cleaning services—especially in beach communities and affluent neighborhoods like La Jolla, Coronado, and Rancho Santa Fe.
What's Included in Deep Cleaning?
Deep cleaning goes far beyond standard maintenance. Here's what a quality deep clean should include:
Standard Deep Clean Includes:
- All standard cleaning tasks
- Appliance exteriors (fridge, oven, dishwasher)
- Microwave cleaned inside and out
- Baseboards and door frames
- Ceiling fans and light fixtures
- Window sills and blinds
- Detailed bathroom sanitization
Available Add-On Services:
- Inside oven cleaning ($20-40)
- Inside refrigerator ($20-50)
- Interior windows ($5-10 each)
- Inside cabinets/closets ($25-50)
- Wall washing ($50-100)
- Garage cleaning ($75-150)
How to Get the Best Value
- Get multiple quotes: Compare at least 3 companies. Beware quotes significantly below market—they often mean cutting corners.
- Ask about recurring discounts: Many companies offer 10-15% off if you book recurring service after your deep clean.
- Verify insurance: Cheap services often lack proper insurance. Ask for proof of liability coverage.
- Declutter first: Reducing clutter before cleaners arrive means they spend time cleaning, not organizing.
- Communicate priorities: Let your cleaner know which areas matter most to ensure those get proper attention.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does deep cleaning cost in San Diego?
Deep cleaning in San Diego typically costs $200-$400 for a standard 2-3 bedroom home. Prices range from $200-$300 for apartments, $300-$450 for single-family homes, and $400-$600+ for large homes over 3,000 sq ft. Factors include home size, condition, and specific services needed.
Is deep cleaning worth the cost?
Yes, for most homeowners. Deep cleaning addresses areas missed in regular cleaning, improves air quality, and 'resets' your home for easier maintenance. It's especially valuable before moving, after illness, or when regular cleaning has fallen behind. The average San Diego homeowner saves 8-12 hours of their own time.
How much do house cleaners charge per hour in San Diego?
San Diego house cleaners typically charge $35-$55 per hour per cleaner. However, most deep cleaning services quote flat rates based on home size and condition rather than hourly, which protects you from unexpected costs if the job takes longer.
Why is deep cleaning more expensive than regular cleaning?
Deep cleaning takes 2-3x longer than standard cleaning because it addresses baseboards, ceiling fans, blinds, light fixtures, and other areas not covered in routine maintenance. Add-ons like inside appliances (oven, refrigerator) are available for an additional fee. It requires more cleaning products and often uses specialty equipment.
Get Your Free Deep Cleaning Quote
Metla House Cleaning provides transparent, flat-rate quotes with no hidden fees. Fully insured, background-checked professionals serving all San Diego neighborhoods.
Art Machekin is the founder of Metla House Cleaning. Before starting the company, Art worked as a professional cleaner — hands-on experience that gives him a deep understanding of the techniques and details that matter most in delivering a spotless home.