How Much Do Hotel Housekeepers Make? A Comprehensive Guide

If you’re considering a career as a hotel housekeeper or are simply curious about the profession, one question you may have is how much do hotel housekeepers make?

On average, hotel housekeepers in the United States make around $11.50 per hour, but this can vary depending on a number of factors.

In this article, we’ll take a comprehensive look at hotel housekeeper salary ranges, the factors that can affect pay, and what you can do to increase your earning potential as a hotel housekeeper.

Hotel Housekeeper Salary Ranges

Hotel housekeepers are responsible for ensuring that hotel rooms and public areas are clean and well-maintained. While the job can be physically demanding, it can also be rewarding for those who enjoy helping others. One important aspect of any job is the salary. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the average hotel housekeeper salaries, hourly wages by state, salary by hotel type, and salary by years of experience.

National Average Salary

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average hourly wage for hotel housekeepers in the United States is $12.69, with an annual salary of $26,410. However, this can vary depending on a variety of factors, including location, hotel type, and years of experience.

Hourly Wages by State

Hotel housekeeper wages can vary widely by state. For example, in California, the average hourly wage is $14.40, while in Florida, it’s $10.96. Here are some of the highest and lowest hourly wages by state:

It’s important to keep in mind that the cost of living can also vary widely by state. While Hawaii may have the highest hourly wage for hotel housekeepers, the cost of living there is also significantly higher than in other states.

Salary by Hotel Type

The type of hotel where a housekeeper works can also impact their salary. For example, luxury hotels typically pay more than budget hotels. Here are some average salaries by hotel type:

• Budget hotel: $23,000 – $28,000 per year
• Midscale hotel: $24,000 – $29,000 per year
• Upscale hotel: $25,000 – $30,000 per year
• Luxury hotel: $27,000 – $33,000 per year

It’s important to note that these are just averages and that salaries can vary widely within each hotel type.

Salary by Years of Experience

Finally, the number of years of experience a hotel housekeeper has can impact their salary. Here are some average salaries by years of experience:

• Less than 1 year: $21,000 – $23,000 per year
• 1-4 years: $22,000 – $25,000 per year
• 5-9 years: $24,000 – $27,000 per year
• 10-19 years: $26,000 – $30,000 per year
• 20 or more years: $28,000 – $33,000 per year

Keep in mind that these are just averages and that individual salaries can vary widely depending on a variety of factors.

Factors That Affect Hotel Housekeeper Pay

Hotel housekeepers are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and overall appearance of guest rooms and common areas. They work in various hotels and resorts across the globe and are compensated differently based on several factors, including:

Hotel Location

The location of the hotel has a significant impact on the pay scale of hotel housekeepers. For instance, housekeepers working in metropolitan areas tend to earn more than those working in rural areas. This is because the cost of living is higher in the city and the demand for hotel services is also higher.

Hotel Size

The size of the hotel also plays a role in determining the pay of housekeepers. A hotel with many rooms and facilities requires more housekeeping staff, and as a result, tends to pay higher salaries. Smaller hotels, on the other hand, have fewer rooms and may not require as many housekeepers, leading to lower pay.

Hotel Rating

The rating of the hotel is another factor that affects the pay of housekeepers. Five-star hotels with a high rating typically pay more than two or three-star hotels. This is because these hotels cater to high-end clients who expect top-of-the-line services and amenities.

Union Membership

Hotel housekeepers who belong to a union typically earn more than those who do not. Unions negotiate better wages, benefits, and working conditions for their members. As a result, unionized housekeepers are more likely to receive a higher salary and better job security.

Experience and Education

Experience and education also play a significant role in determining the pay of hotel housekeepers. Housekeepers with more experience and education tend to earn more than those who are just starting in the field. They are more efficient at their job, require less supervision, and have better communication skills.

Tips for Increasing Your Hotel Housekeeper Salary

Hotel housekeeping is an essential job in the hospitality industry, and it requires hard work and dedication. Housekeepers are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and order of guest rooms and common areas, which can be a challenging task. While the job can be demanding, it can also be rewarding, especially if you take steps to increase your salary. Here are some tips to help you earn more as a hotel housekeeper:

Obtain Certifications and Training

One way to increase your hotel housekeeper salary is to obtain certifications and training. Many organizations offer training programs that can teach you the skills and techniques required for the job. For example, the International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA) offers a Certified Executive Housekeeper (CEH) program that focuses on management, leadership, and technical skills. Certification and training can make you a more valuable employee, which can lead to higher pay.

Gain Experience in Different Hotel Types

Another way to increase your hotel housekeeper salary is to gain experience in different hotel types. For instance, working in luxury hotels can provide you with valuable experience and exposure to high-end service standards, which can make you a more desirable candidate for other hotels. Additionally, working in different hotels can help you develop a more diverse skill set, which can lead to more job opportunities and higher pay.

Negotiate Your Salary

One of the most effective ways to increase your hotel housekeeper salary is to negotiate your pay. Many housekeepers are hesitant to negotiate their salary, but it can be an effective way to earn more money. Before you negotiate your pay, research the average salary for hotel housekeepers in your area and use that information to support your request for a higher salary. Be confident, but also be willing to compromise if necessary.

Consider Working at a Unionized Hotel

If you’re looking for a way to increase your hotel housekeeper salary, consider working at a unionized hotel. Unionized hotels typically pay higher wages and offer better benefits than non-unionized hotels. Additionally, unions can provide job security and protection against unfair treatment by employers. Research local unions in your area and consider joining one if you’re looking for better pay and working conditions.

Seek Opportunities for Advancement

Finally, seeking opportunities for advancement is another way to increase your hotel housekeeper salary. Many hotels offer opportunities for housekeepers to advance to supervisory or management positions. Consider pursuing additional education or training to improve your chances of being promoted. Advancement can lead to higher pay, better benefits, and more job satisfaction.

Conclusion

While hotel housekeeping may not be the highest paying profession, it can provide a stable income and opportunities for growth and advancement. By understanding the factors that can affect your pay and taking steps to increase your earning potential, you can enjoy a fulfilling career as a hotel housekeeper.

We hope this guide has been helpful in answering your questions about hotel housekeeper salaries. If you have any additional questions or insights, feel free to leave a comment below.