Hiring an in-home nanny can be a relief — and a relief on your budget planning. But there’s a tricky detail most families overlook: having a nanny watch your kids for three days per week is often priced differently from a full five-day arrangement.
Why? Because caregivers value consistency and security in their work schedules just as much as you value them in your child’s routine.
Understanding the Cost Factors
Based on national averages in 2023, full-time nanny rates in the U.S. range from $18-$25 per hour, depending on location, experience, and duties. Naturally, when you reduce the total hours, your weekly spending drops.
But here’s where it changes: Many nannies expect a slightly higher hourly rate for part-time work. Without the guaranteed five days of income, they balance the uncertainty by charging more per hour for the three days they do work. The exact premium varies, but it’s common to add $1-$3 more per hour compared to their standard rate.
$18-$25/hr
40-50 hrs
$19-$28/hr
18-30 hrs
Weekly Budget Example
Let’s do the math for a common scenario: a 25-hour week split over three days.
- Hourly rate: $22 (mid-range)
- Total weekly cost: $22 x 25 hrs = $550
If you were hiring for five full days at the same $22/hr rate (40 hrs), the weekly total would be $880. So three days’ care is, on one hand, cheaper — but not “half the price” due to shorter commitment premiums.
- Look into nanny shares. Sharing a nanny with another family can reduce hourly costs and provide social perks for the kids.
- Be transparent early. Discuss full compensation, taxes, and benefits before finalizing. Many caregivers prefer steady pay even in quieter weeks.
- Automate payments. Regular scheduling avoids last-minute rate negotiations and strengthens trust.
Final Thoughts
Three-day-a-week care won’t simply be a fraction of a full-time nanny’s rate — and that’s okay. The key is to budget based on realistic hourly costs, factor in extras like taxes or paid leave, and clarify expectations in advance.
That way, you’re not just demystifying the numbers — you’re building a relationship that works smoothly for both family and caregiver.