Hourly rate for nanny, NW DC toddler and new baby

[Anonymous]

Hi. Our current nanny is leaving to go back to grad school this summer. We will need to find a new nanny to take her place in July. Our son is two and a half. He will be in preschool this fall three mornings a week and also has an enrichment program at school one afternoon a week. We are expecting a second child this fall.

We currently pay our nanny $17 an hour for our toddler, 40 hours a week, two weeks paid vacation, sick leave, federal holidays, etc. My question is: What is a good competitive rate be for a nanny that will have a toddler in preschool 3 mornings, 1 afternoon and a new born?

Thank you for your help!

[Anonymous]

Do you pay legally or under the table?

[Anonymous]

We pay legally.

[Anonymous]

$17 sounds right in that case. Were you thinking you wanted to go lower or higher with the new hire?

[Anonymous]

I would say $17-$19/hour depending on any other tasks you're asking for, since you're not offering any OT.

[Anonymous]

Thanks so much for responding! Oh no, I wouldn't offer lower for the new hire since another child is going to be involved. I most likely will offer opportunities for over time as well.

I was thinking it would be around 18-19 an hour, but just wanted to check in with other moms to make sure. Thanks for your help.

[Anonymous]

As a parent, I like to make sure I'm paying tops (within reason). I want my help to know how much I value their "above and beyond" service. That way they will not to tempted to accept a better job for an extra $1/hr.

[Anonymous]

$18-22 depending on experience/education.

Your older child will still be home far more than at school (sick days, teacher days, holidays, school breaks)

[Anonymous]

I think about $18/$19 sounds right - at least in the Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan neighborhood where I live, unless you are asking her to perform a fair amount of housekeeping related duties (then you'll likely want to up it). If you had been offering more hours, you may have been able to do a bit less, but since it is 40, you'll probably get better candidates by starting at the 18/19 mark. Also, I think that it is a good idea to let her know when you intend to give raises so she's aware of future earning potential. Best of luck with your search!