Hiring a nanny is one of the most common childcare arrangements in the United States, yet the cost can vary widely depending on where you live. Understanding the going rates in your state can help you budget for this important household expense.
We’ve gathered data from reputable sources to compare the average hourly rates paid to nannies for one child across the United States, along with select insights by state.
Average Nanny Hourly Rates by US State
| State | Average Hourly Rate | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $14 | Lower cost of living compared to national average. |
| Alaska | $18 | High demand for workers in remote areas. |
| Arizona | $15 | Favorable year-round climate attracts many nannies. |
| California | $20 | Highly competitive market, especially LA/SF metro. |
| Colorado | $17 | Strong demand near Denver and mountain communities. |
| Connecticut | $16 | High household incomes support higher wages. |
| Delaware | $15 | Moderate demand on the East Coast. |
| Florida | $16 | Seasonal tourism fluctuations can affect hours. |
| Georgia | $16 | High demand in Atlanta metropolitan area. |
| Hawaii | $22 | Cost of living adjustments push rates highest on the islands. |
| Idaho | $14 | Rural lifestyle often lowers wage expectations. |
| Illinois | $17 | Strong demand in Chicago and suburbs. |
| Indiana | $14 | Midwest labor market keeps rates modest. |
| Iowa | $13 | Rural and small city culture favors lower rates. |
| Kansas | $14 | Midwest economics tie to agriculture sector. |
| Kentucky | $14 | Low labor costs tied to generally low living expenses. |
| Louisiana | $14 | Cultural emphasis on tight-knit family networks. |
| Maine | $15 | Seasonal tourism influences demand spikes. |
| Maryland | $17 | Suburban DC location raises market demand. |
| Massachusetts | $18 | Highly educated workforce drives competitive rates. |
| Michigan | $15 | Midwest rates with some urban adjustments. |
| Minnesota | $16 | High quality of life supports living wage expectations. |
| Mississippi | $13 | Generally lowest wages in the country. |
| Missouri | $14 | Central US positioning keeps rates moderate. |
| Montana | $15 | Rural geography limits the applicant pool. |
| Nebraska | $14 | Midwest labor market consistency. |
| Nevada | $15 | Las Vegas tourism can mean irregular scheduling. |
| New Hampshire | $16 | East Coast cost pressures without urban density. |
| New Jersey | $19 | High cost of living near NYC metro area. |
| New Mexico | $15 | Moderate rates in Southwest. |
| New York | $22 | Competition in NYC means significant premium. |
| North Carolina | $15 | Rapid population growth drives steady demand. |
| North Dakota | $15 | Energy sector and rural workforce affect availability. |
| Ohio | $14 | Midwest affordability keeps wages moderate. |
| Oklahoma | $13 | Typically lower-than-average wages. |
| Oregon | $17 | Portland and northwest urban centers command higher rates. |
| Pennsylvania | $16 | Mix of urban and rural rates. |
| Rhode Island | $16 | Compact state with modest urban segment. |
| South Carolina | $14 | Southern affordability influences rates. |
| South Dakota | $14 | Midwest rural labor market. |
| Tennessee | $15 | Southern hospitality culture but fair wages. |
| Texas | $15 | Vast urban/rural mix but generally balanced rates. |
| Utah | $15 | Fast-growing population keeps demand steady. |
| Vermont | $16 | Rural lifestyle with limited applicant pool. |
| Virginia | $17 | D.C. metro proximity and suburban markets. |
| Washington | $17 | Seattle tech boom boosts rural and urban demands. |
| West Virginia | $13 | Appalachian economy means conservative wage scales. |
| Wisconsin | $14 | Midwest norms persist. |
| Wyoming | $14 | Very small population can limit options. |
Factors That Influence Nanny Wages
The figures listed above are national averages. Actual pay can vary based on multiple factors:
- Number of Children: Additional children typically increase hourly rates by 20-30%.
- Experience & Certifications: CPR and first aid credentials, or decades of experience, can raise rates.
- Live-in vs. Live-out: Live-in nannies may earn a lower hourly wage in exchange for room and board.
- Duties beyond Childcare: Housekeeping, cooking, and tutoring may add cost.
- Geographic Location: Urban areas and high-cost states naturally have higher rates.
Tips for Hiring a Nanny
When entering into an arrangement, consider the following:
- Establish clear job descriptions and working hours upfront.
- Understand local labor laws, including payroll taxes for nannies classified as household employees.
- Conduct background checks and reference calls.
- Offer a trial period and plan for periodic reviews of satisfaction and salary adjustments.
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