How Much Does a Nanny Cost? A Detailed Guide
Hiring a nanny is a great choice for many families. Depending on where you live or the hours you work, a nanny’s salary can vary. With all the childcare options out there, many parents find themselves asking, how much does a nanny cost? If you’re overwhelmed with questions, we have the answers.
From how many children you have to what you need help with, there are several factors that go into calculating the cost of a nanny. We’ll go over everything you need to know to help you and your caregiver come up with a price that works for everyone.
How Many Children and the Hours of Care
One of the biggest factors that go into deciding a nanny’s salary is the hours of care you need. If you need 15 hours of care a week, you won’t pay the same as someone who needs 45 hours. There are a few essential questions you’ll want to ask your nanny to make sure you’re on the same page.
In addition to their hours, the number of children you have is also a factor. Whether you have one child or four, the demands on your nanny will be quite different. The children’s ages can also make a difference. One ten-year-old will be at school, while three young toddlers will need constant care throughout the day.
The age of your children will also impact their other responsibilities. Older kids may play a lot of sports or need to be driven to activities. With kids at school, your nanny may also have some time to pick up additional duties during the day.
When you’re first interviewing your nanny, it’s important to layout your family structure. Let them know where your child will be during the day and how many kids you have. If this is your first child, it can be helpful for them to know if you’re planning on expanding your family later on.
Types of Tasks and Duties
Your nanny will do a lot more than you may realize at first. From household chores to running errands, a nanny is a huge asset to your home. When you and your nanny are discussing their responsibilities, speak with them about what you need additional help with.
Your nanny can help with any number of tasks around the house. Sometimes a caregiver will assist with preparing meals for your children and even grocery shopping. If your child is in school, this is something they may be able to help with while they are gone. If you need a lot of help cleaning or meal prepping, it might be worth the extra cost.
If you have children at home, remote learning, speak with your nanny about this. Your caregiver may feel comfortable helping them with schoolwork and keeping them on task during the day. Many nannies have degrees or backgrounds in education.
If you’re both comfortable with it, your nanny can also act as an extra driver for your family. Nannies can take kids to after school activities, doctors’ appointments, and playdates. Just keep in mind that the more you’re asking of your nanny, the higher their salary will be. You may also need to buy them their own car or pay for gas and mileage on their personal car.
Where You Live
Where you live will factor a lot into the cost of your nanny. If you live in a dense urban area, your nanny’s salary will be higher. It has to be to keep up with the higher cost of living. The more expensive your city is, the more you’ll pay.
You’ll also need to factor in their commute. Speak with them on if they will be using public transportation or their own car. You may want to add in some extra pay to help cover these expenses. In more rural areas, time in traffic or spent on rideshare services may not be an issue. In big cities, these costs can add up.
The Background and Experience of the Nanny
If you are looking to hire a very experienced nanny, you’ll pay a premium for those years. A nanny with more training or higher education will also earn more. In terms of the cost, think about what is important to you. If having an educational background matters, then it will be worth the investment to you to pay more.
Additional Costs
The salary you pay your nanny isn’t the only cost. You may also want to pay your nanny for sick days or vacation time. You should also factor in raises and bonuses as an employer would. These should be included in your long-term nanny prices.
You’ll also need to pay taxes and possibly a payroll service. You and your nanny are in business together and it should be treated as a partnership.
If your nanny is doing a lot of driving for your family, some parents get their nanny an extra car. This car can be used for driving your children to school, sports, activities, and errands.
How Much Does a Nanny Cost 101
If you’re wondering how much does a nanny cost and can I afford one? You’re not alone. Childcare can be overwhelming and expensive. You want to make sure your nanny is a good fit for you, your children, and your budget.
Before you discuss salary requirements with your potential nanny, lay out what you need help with. Figure out how many hours you need, what you’d like their day to look like, and how much experience you’re looking for. From there, the price will depend on where you live, how many children you have, and any additional tasks you both agree upon.
Whatever price you and your nanny decide on, think of it as an investment. Your children will be well taken care of and you’ll get a much-needed extra set of hands. For more great resources check out the parenting section for additional tips and guides.
