If sparkling glass is on your summer to-do list, here’s the short answer: window cleaning cost in 2026 runs about $4–$8 per pane — roughly $10–$16 per window — with a typical whole-home visit landing between $150 and $300 in both the US and Canada. Most companies also set a minimum job fee of $100–$250, so a handful of windows costs nearly as much as a full first floor. Below is what drives the price, what US and Canadian homeowners actually pay, and how to hire a professional window cleaning service that won’t leave streaks — or surprises on the invoice.
Average Window Cleaning Cost in 2026
Pricing is usually quoted per window or per pane, then adjusted for height, access, and add-ons.
| Service | Typical Range (USD/CAD similar) |
|---|---|
| Exterior only, per window (ground floor) | $6 – $13 |
| Interior only, per window | $2 – $8 |
| Windows above the 2nd floor, per window | $10 – $40 |
| Whole home, small (up to ~15 windows) | $100 – $250 |
| Whole home, medium (15–30 windows) | $150 – $400 |
| Whole home, large (30+ windows) | $400 – $700+ |
| Hourly crews (where used) | $40 – $80 / hr |
Canadian and US ranges track closely in 2026; big metros like Toronto, Vancouver, New York, and San Francisco sit at the top of each range because of labor and insurance costs.
What Affects the Price
Height and access
This is the single biggest multiplier. Ground-floor panes take a squeegee and two minutes; third-story windows need extension poles, ladders, or water-fed systems — and the safety overhead is priced in. Steep landscaping, locked gates, or windows over sunrooms also add cost.
Interior, exterior, or both
Exterior-only is the budget option and what most people mean by “window cleaning.” Adding the interior side typically raises the per-window price 30–50%, but it’s the only way to get truly clear glass — haze on the inside is more common than people think.
Add-ons
Screens ($2–$5 each), track and sill detailing ($3–$8 per window), hard-water stain removal ($10–$30 per affected pane), and skylights are all extras. They’re worth bundling: you’re already paying the trip minimum, and stained glass left untreated can etch permanently.
Condition and frequency
Post-construction cleans, years of grime, or paint overspray can double a quote. Homes on a recurring schedule (2–4 times a year) usually get 10–20% off list price.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
DIY makes sense for ground-floor windows: a good squeegee, a bucket, and dish soap cost under $40, and technique matters more than product. Where DIY stops making sense is height. Ladder falls are one of the most common home-injury ER visits, and rented water-fed poles cost enough that a pro visit is often cheaper. A reasonable split: do your ground floor between visits, and book a pro once or twice a year for everything — including the second story, screens, and tracks. If you’re also tackling siding or the driveway this season, see our pressure washing cost guide — many exterior-cleaning companies bundle both and discount the combo.
How to Vet a Window Cleaning Company
- Proof of insurance. Ladder work means real liability — ask for general liability and workers’ comp, especially for anything above one story.
- A per-window quote in writing. Vague “whole house” quotes are where surprise charges live. Count your windows first so you can compare bids apples-to-apples.
- Ask what’s included. Screens and tracks are extras at some companies, standard at others — the “cheap” quote often excludes them.
- Streak guarantee. Reputable cleaners will return to fix streaks or drips within a few days at no charge.
- Reviews that mention height work if you have a tall home — it’s a different skill set than bungalow washing.
Clean windows also pay off if you’re selling or refreshing your exterior: they’re the cheapest curb-appeal upgrade there is, next to the bigger-ticket projects in our exterior house painting cost guide. When you’re ready to book, you can find a window cleaner near you and compare quotes from vetted local pros.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does window cleaning cost per window?
Most pros charge $4–$8 per pane, which works out to roughly $10–$16 per standard window for exterior cleaning. Interior-and-exterior service and upper-story windows cost more.
How often should windows be professionally cleaned?
Twice a year (spring and fall) suits most homes. Homes near busy roads, construction, or salt air may need quarterly visits; once a year is a reasonable minimum.
Why do window cleaners have minimum fees?
Travel time, insurance, and equipment setup cost the same whether they clean six windows or thirty, so most companies set a $100–$250 minimum per visit. Bundling screens, tracks, and both floors into one trip gets you the most for that minimum.
Is DIY window cleaning worth it?
For ground-floor windows, yes — a squeegee and soapy water rival professional results. For second-story and higher, hiring a pro is usually safer and often cheaper than renting equipment.
Ready to see the outside world clearly again? Get quotes on MastersGuild
