How to Determine the Average Cost of a Babysitter

The average cost of a babysitter is based on many factors, including the age of the children, the job requirements, the experience of babysitter, the time of day and more. Although a trained nanny can make $20 an hour and a niece might settle for $20 a night, in general, $10 an hour is a good starting point. From there, consider the following factors to adjust the hourly rate.

Instructions

    • 1

      Factor in the number of children and their ages. Younger children often require more supervision than older children; caring for infants requires special skills. Some babysitters will charge for each child ̵2; for example, $3 per child per hour ̵2; or just expect a higher hourly rate for watching a large family.

      Honestly assess how difficult it is to keep up with your brood. Watching one well-behaved, older child is a very different experience from running after several energetic small children.

    • 2

      Factor in the time of day. Late-night shifts will cost you more, in part because you'll have to hire someone who's at least college-aged, and the older and more experienced the sitter, the more she'll expect. However, don't let a sitter overcharge you for late nights if the children will already be put to bed when she arrives.

    • 3

      Consider the tasks the babysitter will be expected to perform. The cost of babysitting will increase if you would like the babysitter to do more than simply watch the children. If the sitter will prepare meals, clean up, bathe the children, change diapers or put the children to sleep, you can expect to pay a higher wage. Tutoring and taking the children to appointments are other activities that demand higher rates.

    • 4

      Assume that you'll be paying more for experience. A young sitter might be happy with less money, but babysitters who are experienced, such as those who are mothers themselves or have licenses or training, will charge more.

    • 5

      Expect discounts for regular babysitting. Though not all babysitters do this, some like the idea of having steady work and will give you a discount accordingly.

    • 6

      Take into account the average price of babysitters in your city and neighborhood. If you live in a wealthy area, wage expectations will be higher.

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