How Much to Charge for Window Cleaning in California?2026 Statewide Rates & Calculator
With 39.5M residents and a 55.5% homeownership rate, California has approximately 21,943,714 potential window cleaning customers. High demand meets premium pricing here - a strong opportunity for experienced pros. Demand for window cleaning stays steady throughout the year, making income more predictable. California rates run about 32% higher than neighboring Oregon - useful context if you serve clients near the border.
Select Your City in California
Get precise window cleaning rates for your local market.
Or Use California State Average
Don't see your city? Use the calculator below with California statewide rates.
Enter Your Details
Average home: 12-20 windows
Suggested: $64/hr based on California wages
Insurance, supplies, marketing
Your Pricing
Recommended Price
Range: $261 - $317
$19.33/window - 2.1h estimated
Cost Breakdown
California Window Cleaning Market Intelligence
Pricing models, earning potential, and market comparison for window cleaning in California.
Window Cleaning Pricing Breakdown
| Pricing Model | Low | Typical | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Per window | $6 | $12 | $17 |
| Per pane | $3 | $6 | $9 |
| Whole house (15-25 windows) | $213 | $355 | $497 |
| Commercial (per pane) | $4 | $8 | $11 |
Prices adjusted for California cost of living (142% of national average).
How Much Can You Earn Doing Window Cleaning in California?
Estimates based on California average rates. Actual income varies by experience, efficiency, and client mix.
California vs Other Markets
| Market | Hourly Rate | COL | Demand |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $64/hr | 142% | very high |
| National Average | $45/hr | 100% | - |
| Oregon(neighbor) | $50/hr | 110% | high |
| Nevada(neighbor) | $47/hr | 104% | high |
Your Business Misses 5-10 Calls a Day.
One Is a Hot Lead - Gone to a Competitor.
Every time you can't answer, that caller Googles the next business - and they pick up. 62% won't leave a voicemail. They won't call back. That's $200-500 walking out the door. Stop losing money - let AI answer while you work.
Instant Call Answering
Never miss a lead, even at 3 AM
Smart Scheduling
Books appointments directly to your calendar
SMS Follow-ups
Automatic text confirmations to callers
24/7 Availability
Works while you sleep, holidays included
"I was hesitant about AI, but customers love the instant response. It's 2026 - this is how business works now."
- Scott R., Contractor, Kansas
Setup takes 40 seconds. While you're reading this, someone's trying to call you.
California Licensing Requirements
- •C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500
- •Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27
- •$25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license
- •Workers comp required for all employees
- •City business licenses required everywhere
This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
California Window Cleaning Business Tips
Local insights for running a successful window cleaning business in California
Solar panel cleaning adds 25-40% to window cleaning revenue. Most California homes have solar — bundle the services.
Key Insight: California's high cost of living justifies premium prices, but regulatory compliance and competition require professional positioning.
Window Cleaning Demand in California by Month
Plan your year around seasonal demand patterns.
Plan alternative income sources for the off-season months.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much should I charge for window cleaning in California?
In California, window cleaning rates range from $51-$96/hour, with an average of $64/hour. California's cost of living is 142% of the national average. Major cities like San Francisco command higher rates ($86/hr), while smaller markets like Fresno average $49/hr.
What's the California average for window cleaning services?
The California statewide average for window cleaning is $64/hour or approximately $192-$320 per job. This reflects California's 142% cost of living index relative to the national baseline.
Which California cities have the highest window cleaning rates?
In California, San Francisco has the highest window cleaning rates at around $86/hour due to its 190% cost of living. Other high-rate areas include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Do I need a license for window cleaning in California?
California licensing: C-27 license required for landscape contracts over $500 Maintenance-only work under $500 does not require C-27 $25,000 contractor bond required for C-27 license Workers comp required for all employees City business licenses required everywhere This information is provided as general guidance only. Requirements may change and vary by locality. Always verify current requirements with state and local licensing authorities before starting your business.
Is California a good market for window cleaning businesses?
California offers a strong market for window cleaning with rates averaging $64/hour. The state's 142% cost of living index supports sustainable pricing. Top markets include Los Angeles, San Diego, San Jose.
Nearby States
Based on
10,000+ quotes
Used by
5,000+ pros
Updated
January 2026
Verified by
BLS Data
Window Cleaning pricing data for California is sourced from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Census Bureau cost of living data, and verified quotes from local service professionals.
Data Sources:
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- California Labor Department
- U.S. Census Bureau
Last updated: January 2026