DC Nanny Rates for Infant

[Anonymous]

My family is new to the area, and we’re searching for a full-time nanny for our 4 month old baby girl. I was expecting to pay $15 per hour, however I’ve had two applicants tell me that rate is too low, and have quoted me $20/hr and $22/hr?! I know DC is expensive, but that’s literally half of my income per year. Is this normal? We live in Columbia Heights if that matters, and we only want childcare duties, as we have a cleaning lady that comes 1x per week.

We also looked into a share, and the quote was $14 per baby. That’s $28 per hour. I hate to sound insensitive, but if this is really the case in this area with private childcare, then unfortunately I may start looking into a few daycares.

[Anonymous]

Either do the share or go to daycare. You can find a share for cheaper but it will take time. Another option (which is what a lot of families do), hire a nanny who doesn’t speak English that well, doesn’t drive, and is basically just a warm body for around $15-$18. An educated and experienced nanny isn’t taking less than $20/hr for one child. The area is very expensive and there are plenty of families willing to pay $20 plus for single care.

[Anonymous]

$15/hr is way too low. DC minimum wage is currently $14 and will be $15 in the middle of next year. Do you think someone caring for your child is only worth minimum wage?

A lot of parents pay a significant portion of their salary towards childcare, some even pay MORE than what they earn. It makes it possible for them to stay relevant in their field; but if that's not important to you it might be cheaper to stay home and care for your own child.

[Anonymous]

I think you will also be shocked at the cost and waiting list for infant daycare.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Either do the share or go to daycare. You can find a share for cheaper but it will take time. Another option (which is what a lot of families do), hire a nanny who doesn’t speak English that well, doesn’t drive, and is basically just a warm body for around $15-$18. An educated and experienced nanny isn’t taking less than $20/hr for one child. The area is very expensive and there are plenty of families willing to pay $20 plus for single care.

This, OP. I would go with a nanny share if I were you.

[Anonymous]

I think the only way you can make this work is if you're willing to hire someone who doesn't have their papers, and pay them under the table.

Otherwise, I think the absolute minimum for 1 child will be $18 / hr, but you'll probably get quoted closer to $20 / hour as you've noticed.

[Anonymous]

Do a share, daycare or look at an AP/live-in nanny.

[Anonymous]

Nanny here. You should go with daycare. A good nanny who will read, sing, narrate and engage your baby will be far more than $20 an hour. A good daycare is better than a bad nanny.

[Anonymous]

Get on multiple daycare lists immediately.
Look into an au pair as that may be a good option for you.
You would have to get very far out from the city to get a $15 an hour nanny. At least 1+ hr out.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Nanny here. You should go with daycare. A good nanny who will read, sing, narrate and engage your baby will be far more than $20 an hour. A good daycare is better than a bad nanny.

+1. I’m also a nanny. I recommend a really great daycare.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My family is new to the area, and we’re searching for a full-time nanny for our 4 month old baby girl. I was expecting to pay $15 per hour, however I’ve had two applicants tell me that rate is too low, and have quoted me $20/hr and $22/hr?! I know DC is expensive, but that’s literally half of my income per year. Is this normal? We live in Columbia Heights if that matters, and we only want childcare duties, as we have a cleaning lady that comes 1x per week.

We also looked into a share, and the quote was $14 per baby. That’s $28 per hour. I hate to sound insensitive, but if this is really the case in this area with private childcare, then unfortunately I may start looking into a few daycares.

You should find a daycare. Yes, those are average if not low rates quoted. Having a nanny is not a right, OP.

[Anonymous]

FWIW, daycare for an infant in DC is at least $1900/month.

[Anonymous]

For your budget your best option is a nanny share.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:My family is new to the area, and we’re searching for a full-time nanny for our 4 month old baby girl. I was expecting to pay $15 per hour, however I’ve had two applicants tell me that rate is too low, and have quoted me $20/hr and $22/hr?! I know DC is expensive, but that’s literally half of my income per year. Is this normal? We live in Columbia Heights if that matters, and we only want childcare duties, as we have a cleaning lady that comes 1x per week.

We also looked into a share, and the quote was $14 per baby. That’s $28 per hour. I hate to sound insensitive, but if this is really the case in this area with private childcare, then unfortunately I may start looking into a few daycares.

These are normal rates for one infant.

I would look for more shares, it's possible to find one for under $28. Not by much, but maybe you can find one for $24 or $25. It is what it is. Nannies are the most expensive form of childcare.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My family is new to the area, and we’re searching for a full-time nanny for our 4 month old baby girl. I was expecting to pay $15 per hour, however I’ve had two applicants tell me that rate is too low, and have quoted me $20/hr and $22/hr?! I know DC is expensive, but that’s literally half of my income per year. Is this normal? We live in Columbia Heights if that matters, and we only want childcare duties, as we have a cleaning lady that comes 1x per week.

We also looked into a share, and the quote was $14 per baby. That’s $28 per hour. I hate to sound insensitive, but if this is really the case in this area with private childcare, then unfortunately I may start looking into a few daycares.

These are normal rates for one infant.

I would look for more shares, it's possible to find one for under $28. Not by much, but maybe you can find one for $24 or $25. It is what it is. Nannies are the most expensive form of childcare.

+1