How Much Should a Babysitter Be Paid?

Babysitting rates vary.

Teenagers Usually Charge Less

You should pay a teenage babysitter between $5 and $15 per hour, as of 2006, according to the Cost Helper website. Rates vary based on where you live, how many children you want the babysitter to watch, the age of the child or children or if the job is on a holiday. You should pay more if you want the sitter to do some house cleaning.

Agencies Usually Charge More

You will probably pay more if you use a babysitting agency. Babysitting agencies vary on how much they charge. Typically, you subscribe to the service. You can expect to pay around $10 per month to subscribe. You then search for a babysitter in your area. You can find sitters at Sitters.com, for example, who charge between $5 and $15 per hour, as of 2010.

Bottom Line

Whether you hire a less-experienced teenager or an experienced nanny, you need to pay a fair rate and not try to skimp or cut costs because your children's safety is at stake. Make sure that you pay a fair wage and that your sitter is worth what she charges, according to the BabySlumber.com website.

References

• Cost Helper: Babysitter Cost
• BabySlumber.com: How Much Should I Pay My Babysitter?