Welcoming a nanny into your family's life is an important decision, one that can bring immense relief and support to busy parents. However, as with any investment in care, it's important to approach it with attentive discretion. Here in Austin, the process of hiring a nanny has changed drastically over the past several years. Thirty years ago, many nannies in Austin were live-in housekeepers, who tended to household needs and assisted with the children. Between then and now, a culture has developed surrounding nanny care. In 2024, there are more options for childcare than ever before; between daycare centers to in-home preschools, nanny-shares, household managers, part-time and full-time nannies, au-pairs and more. As parents consider the advantages of each option, cost is often a determining factor.
At Petit Nannies, we have worked with families over the years, from their first night home with a newborn, to their children’s high school graduation — many families needs change over time. We have found there to be stages: the infant and toddler stage with child number one often requires support through pregnancy and the postpartum period, nighttime help once baby arrives, and a dependable, experienced, caregiver during the day once mom and dad return to work, or settle into their new post-baby life. As that baby approaches toddlerhood, parents often decide to enroll them in a preschool program, for the socialization and educational enrichment. Oftentimes, around this time, families consider adding another child to their family. Through the years, their needs will change; their children will become older and more independent, their family may grow, with toddlerhood in the rearview traveling as a family may become more feasible and frequent. Throughout the changes of season, some things remain the same: laundry, grocery shopping, breakfast, lunch and dinner, school drop-off and pick-up, sports practices, tutoring, SAT prep: the act of raising children requires support. Many families have found that nanny care provides a dynamic, flexible solution to an extra set of hands around the home. Nannies are often able to fill the gaps and meet the needs as they change, tag-teaming with parents and household staff to manage the household, and support the children. In many cases, nannies become much more than an employee, and rather an integral part of the family, a piece of the puzzle that families cannot imagine living without.
All this said, families must consider what makes the most sense for their individual circumstances. They may have warned you about the cost of diapers and formula, but no one seems to mention the cost of childcare, and as it continues to rise, it is important to consider the long-term needs of your family, and find an option that meets those needs without breaking the bank. More often than not, finding temporary solutions for a few months, or a year at a time, will amount to a larger cost overall. We often hear from families who have tried less expensive options, but have been frustrated with the results, whether it was dependability, or lack of flexibility, they find themselves searching for a nanny after they’ve spent resources and time trying to make other solutions work for them.
When we have an initial consultation with families, we explain that there is significant variation in price per hour for nanny care depending on the families and nannies needs, preferences, and requirements. Just as a family is searching for their perfect candidate, many candidates are searching for their perfect family. Some of the factors to consider are the following:
Experience and Qualifications: Nannies with extensive experience, specialized training, or certifications may command higher salaries, reflecting their dedication to providing exceptional care.
Number of Children: Whether you have one child or a bustling household, the number of children requiring care can impact the cost, as more children often mean more responsibility for the nanny.
Duties and Responsibilities: Beyond childcare, nannies may assist with light housekeeping, meal preparation, or transportation, enhancing the overall support they provide to your family.
Hours and Schedule: The hours worked per week and the nature of the schedule can influence the total cost, with flexibility and consistency being valued attributes.
Benefits and Perks: In today’s market, most families offer additional benefits such as paid time off, health insurance, or bonuses, recognizing the invaluable contributions of their nanny.
In addition to the nanny's hourly rate, there are other financial considerations to keep in mind:
Placement fees: There are several agencies in Austin, ranging in cost from $500-$10,000 depending on the position, length of contract, and annual salary of the nanny. At Petit Nannies, we pride ourselves in being one of the most affordable nanny placement services, while offering one of the most comprehensive and in-depth placement experiences on the market.
Taxes: Employers are responsible for withholding and paying taxes on behalf of their nanny, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and fostering a fair working relationship.
Miscellaneous Expenses: From transportation reimbursement to educational materials, additional expenses may arise depending on the specific arrangement with your nanny. Clear communication and mutual understanding can help manage these costs effectively.
Considering all of the aspects outlined above, Petit Austin is proud to share our agency statistics:
Average Annual Salary for a full-time nanny: $56,000
Average hourly wage: $28.50/hr
Average Fee for Placement with Petit Nannies: $2,560
At the end of the day, it comes down to this: prioritize your family’s needs. Identify your family's non-negotiables and preferences when it comes to hiring a nanny, whether it's specific qualifications or cultural compatibility. By aligning your expectations with your budget, you can find a balance that meets both your practical and emotional needs.
Whether you work with us at Petit Nannies or not, remember that the process of finding a nanny is not just about finding someone to care for your children; it's about inviting a new member into your family's dynamic, and working together to create a nurturing environment where your children thrive. Whether you're embarking on this adventure for the first time or seeking to enrich your existing childcare arrangement, trust in your ability to make thoughtful decisions that prioritize both your family's well-being and financial stability. With each step you take, may you find joy in the journey and comfort in knowing that your children are cherished and cared for.
With love,
The Petit Nannies Team
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