Housekeeper Salary in Cambridge, MA
Housekeepers in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.92 per hour, which translates to about $836.80 per week, $3,626.13 per month, and $43,513.60 per year.
The demand for Housekeepers in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy job market and increasing need for cleaning and maintenance services in homes, hotels, and institutions in the area.
How Much Does a Housekeeper Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Housekeeper in Cambridge varies based on experience and skills. Below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.22 | $568.80 | $2,460.80 | $29,625.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.92 | $836.80 | $3,626.13 | $43,513.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.76 | $1,230.40 | $5,312.53 | $63,965.60 |
Do Housekeepers in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Housekeepers generally do not earn tips as their work usually occurs behind the scenes without direct customer interaction. Their earnings mainly come from salary or hourly wages.
Housekeeper Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Housekeepers earn an average of around $18.28 per hour, which translates to about $38,022.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Housekeepers in Cambridge earn more, with about $20.92 per hour and $43,513.60 annually. This higher pay reflects the local cost of living and demand for skilled cleaning professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Housekeepers
In the Cambridge area, certain neighborhoods offer higher wages for Housekeepers:
- Harvard Square: $22.00 per hour
- Kendall Square: $21.50 per hour
Housekeepers working near these hubs can expect slightly better compensation, likely due to the area's affluence and concentration of hospitality and residential establishments.
What Influences a Housekeeper’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several factors impact the salary of a Housekeeper in Cambridge:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Housekeepers who know advanced cleaning techniques and use specialized equipment typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale hotels or private homes generally pays better than cleaning in commercial or budget accommodations.
- Certifications and Training: Formal training programs and certifications can increase a Housekeeper’s earning potential.
- Shift and Scheduling: Night or weekend shifts may come with additional pay or bonuses.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with more tourism or larger residential complexes may offer better opportunities and pay.
How To Become a Housekeeper in Cambridge
Starting a career as a Housekeeper in Cambridge involves a few important steps:
- Complete Training Programs: Consider enrolling in programs like the Cambridge Community College Housekeeping Certification or the Massachusetts Hospitality Academy Housekeeping Course which cover sanitation, safety, and advanced cleaning techniques.
- Earn Relevant Certifications: Credentials such as the Certified Executive Housekeeper (CEH) or the OSHA Safety Certification can enhance job prospects and salaries.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions in hotels, hospitals, or residential cleaning provide valuable on-the-job learning.
- Develop Key Skills: Attention to detail, time management, and customer service skills are highly valued in the field.
Top Employers Hiring Housekeepers in Cambridge
Significant employers in Cambridge hiring Housekeepers include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Harvard University
- Cambridge Health Alliance
Establishments That Housekeepers in Cambridge Work At
Housekeepers in Cambridge typically find employment in a range of establishments:
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end hotels often pay more due to higher standards and guest expectations.
- Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: These require strict sanitation protocols which can affect pay scales.
- Private Residences: Cleaning private homes may offer flexible hours and personalized pay.
- Commercial Buildings: Office buildings or schools may offer stable hours but comparatively lower wages.
The type of establishment plays a big role in salary, with more specialized or luxury settings generally offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Housekeepers
If you're exploring roles related to Housekeeping, here are a few similar positions worth considering:
These include Laundry Attendant, Bellhop, and Porter positions, which share responsibilities in hospitality support and facility maintenance.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Housekeepers in Cambridge
Housekeepers should stay informed about labor laws and taxation to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Details on Massachusetts state labor regulations, minimum wage, and employee protections are available on the Massachusetts government website.
- Federal labor laws including wage standards and workplace safety can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.