How much should I pay my babysitter?

Question

My kids are 1, 2 and 4 and I am trying to figure out if I am overpaying. I thought $15-20 was a good rate but everyone I talk to seems to be paying less. The girl I use told me to pay her whatever I am comfortable with. I don't want to underpay. Please help.

Answer 1

No way are you overpaying! These are three kids, at ages where they need constant attention. If you had one nine year old kid for an hour or two, then $20 is steep, but what you're giving her is right on target. If anything, it's low.

I babysit for a family with four kids, and I don't always have them, but there are days when I have all four--2, 4, 7, 9--for two-plus hours for $20 or $25, depending on how long their mom is gone.

Part of the babysitting thing is where you live. If it's a lower-income community nobody expects you to break the bank on your sitter. But if you live in a higher income community, she might feel gyped on occasion.

Answer 2

Go to www.sittercity.com.They have a rate calculator based on your zip code, number and ages of children, etc.

Answer 3

With the ages of the children I don't feel that you are overpaying. My children are ages 10, 9, 9 and 8 and I usually pay $60 for an evening out.

Especially if you are comfortable with your sitter, it's always better to overpay to keep your sitter happy and coming back!