Valet trash service is quickly becoming one of the most sought–after amenities in multi-family communities across the United States. It provides unparalleled convenience for residents, and allows property managers to keep their properties cleaner and better organized, overall. But, how much does valet trash service even cost – and what exactly goes into that price? In this guide, we will lay out how valet trash pricing works, what goes into pricing for property managers and residents, and how pricing models can be used as a potential profit center for multifamily communities.
How Valet Trash Pricing Works
Valet trash pricing reflects a variety of different aspects, including service frequency, property size, location, and contract terms. While the average resident pays somewhere around $25 and $35 a month, property managers may pay somewhere around $8 to $15 a unit depending on their contract and service level.
This price difference creates an opportunity for property managers not only to provide a premium service, but also a revenue opportunity where they might be able to capture some of that value through a fee structure that is charged back to the lease; in many instances residents will be required to pay for valet trash as a service that is a mandatory, non-optional amenity.
1. Service Frequency
The frequency of nights valet trash is picked up each week is one of the biggest pricing drivers. Most providers, like EcoClear Solutions, offer service three to five nights a week, with five being the industry standard. Some luxury communities or high-traffic communities might select a seven-day service for higher levels of cleanliness and convenience.
3 Nights/Week – Ideal for smaller or lower-density communities. More cost-effective.
5 Nights/Week – Standard for most properties. Balanced service and pricing.
7 Nights/Week – Premium option for high-end communities or large urban complexes.
Higher frequencies require more labor, vehicle use, and operational planning—so naturally, pricing increases accordingly.
2. Property Type and Size
Big garden-style apartment communities (300+ units) typically achieve a better price per unit because of economies of scale. Smaller communities may pay a higher price per unit for this reason: a technician on a dispatch costs the same whether they have 100 units or 300 units in the property.
For example:
A 300-unit property paying $10 per unit = $3,000/month
A 100-unit property may pay $12-$15 per unit = $1,200 to $1,500/month
3. Geographical Location
Cost is heavily dependent on the location. An urban center location, with higher labor costs and increased municipal waste fees, will create a higher price point in general than suburban or rural locations. Even local regulations, and plans for more compliant service or recycling can raise the price of valet trash service.
4. Special Collection Times
Some communities, particularly student housing, may need weekend pickups after events or high-volume days. These special collection times are usually an extra charge. As an example, Saturday night collections may increase the per-unit service fee after tailgates or university events.
5. Contract Length
Valet trash services are generally contracted for a minimum of 12 months. However, many offer longer terms (24 or 36 months) at a lower cost. Longer terms have advantages for the client and for the service provider; it creates a long-term relationship for the provider and it reduces client turnover or service changes.
For example, a $1 per unit discount on a 300-unit community over a two-year contract can save $7,200 in service fees over the life of the agreement.
Common Valet Trash Pricing Models
To meet the varied needs of communities, valet trash services typically offer four types of pricing models:
1. Flat-Fee Model
A fixed rate per unit per month, regardless of service frequency or volume. This is great for budgeting and communities with consistent waste build-up.
2. Volume-Based Pricing
Pricing typically fluctuates based on the amount of trash collected. This model works well for communities looking to incentivize the best waste reduction.
2. Volume-Based Pricing
Pricing fluctuates based on the amount of trash collected. This model works well for communities looking to incentivize waste reduction.
3. Tiered Pricing
Flexible pricing based on chosen service tiers. A basic plan may offer 3 pickups/week, while a premium plan includes recycling and bulk item removal.
4. Customized Pricing
A fully tailored plan that considers community layout, resident demographics, sustainability goals, and more. At EcoClear Solutions, we specialize in this personalized approach, ensuring each client pays only for what they need.
What Do Residents Pay?
Though property managers pay service providers between $9 and $15 per unit, residents are typically billed $25 to $35 per month, either directly or through their lease agreements. This markup enables the service to act as a profit center for property managers.
Example:
Provider charges: $12 per unit
Resident fee: $25 per unit
Profit per unit: $13
For 100 units: $1,300/month in net revenue
Multiply that across a large property portfolio, and the revenue can reach six figures annually—all while improving the living environment for residents.
Regional Factors to Watch
Besides base costs, regional dynamics play a big role in pricing:
Labor Rates – Higher in metro areas like Dallas, Austin, or Los Angeles.
Municipal Fees – Local governments may impose costly waste handling or recycling regulations.
Market Demand – Popular amenities command higher fees in competitive rental markets.
Environmental Laws – Stricter green regulations can increase operational costs.
Valet trash service isn’t just about convenience—it’s also a powerful tool for boosting tenant satisfaction. Here’s how smart pricing contributes:
Affordability – Reasonable pricing ensures high adoption rates.
Transparency – Clear fees build trust with residents.
Consistency – Stable pricing allows residents to budget with confidence.
Customization – Tailored plans give residents what they truly need.
