Is a housekeeper/maid worth the cost?

Yes, yes, unequivocally yes. If you're asking this question, you will most likely benefit from one. Prices range depending on city and size of apartment.

Try not to go with a "service", I've found that they really try and rip you off. Try asking your friends whom you know are secretly messy (you know who they are).

I agree. I love having a housekeeper. Better to pay by the job than by the hour, and some people will do laundry. Should be under $100.00/time unless you are living in a big house. Check references. You want someone who has a past employer that can vouch for their trustworthiness.

Worth eating pb and j for. Start w. someone on a trial basis so that you can wiggle out of deal, if necessary References are, indeed, vital. And be very clear about job description...laundry, changing sheets, cleaning refridge, or just the usual vaccuuming and mopping.

A cleaning lady is a must. It leaves more time for you to do other things you need to do. Without a cleaning lady, i have found that I spend the whole of my two day off from work doing laundry, and washing dishes and cleaning the house...aka working. For your sanity and well-being it is well worth it.

It probably depends much on if you don’t have time enough to do all “dirty work” for yourself (or if you don’t want…), or if you have a very big house.