
Based on statistics collected by Salary, the average base for a crime scene cleaner is about $31,000 per year as of August 2022. It’s important to note that base salaries vary per city, with California and New York reported as having the highest paying cities that range from $37,000 to $39,000 yearly. Other states with the highest paying salaries for crime scene cleaners include Alaska, Massachusetts, and New Jersey. Salaries can reach up to $80,000 yearly, as reported by Tough Nickel, but that rate is typically for crime scene cleaners who deal with biohazards.
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For most of the crime scene cleaners who last in the industry, the satisfaction of helping people during a difficult time is the most rewarding experience. Danielle Ahlstrom, who works for biohazard removal and trauma cleaning company Aftermath, said that although she has to sometimes sacrifice her personal life, knowing that she helps people makes the job easier. “The biggest benefit is walking away from a job and feeling good about the work we’ve done and how we’ve helped the family,” she stated.