How much to charge for babysitting?

Question

I'm babysitting two kids on Sunday from 6pm to midnight. I've never babysat anyone outside my family and the mother wants to know how much she should give me. They aren't a very wealthy family so I don't want to charge too much. What do you think?

Answer 1

$5-$7/hour is pretty standard.

Answer 2

The going rate here, I am in Ohio, is about $10 an hour.  But since they don't have too much money maybe $8 an hour would be good.  

Answer 3

When I babysit I charge $5.00 for one kid and $1.00 for every additional kid per hour. If they are really having money issues it's just up to you how much you'd be willing to cut down on the price. Have fun babysitting!