You’ve spent a few beautiful weeks (hopefully months!) in your newborn bubble. But now, it’s time to start your new life—whether that means heading back into the workforce…or just back into the world.
To support this transition, you need a reliable child care solution. Whether it’s for your first baby or your fifth, choosing the right child care can feel overwhelming. When it comes to hiring a babysitter vs nanny—what’s the difference? Our guide will help you understand the key differences between a babysitter and a nanny, and how to select the right kind of care for your family.
Key takeaways
- Babysitters provide one-off, short-term child care.
- Nannies provide regular, long-term child care.
- Nannies might take on more responsibilities than babysitters, but not always.
What is a babysitter?
A babysitter is a caregiver who provides short-term child care—usually for date nights, errands, and outings. On average, babysitters work for 3-5 hours per day*, or less than 15 hours per week. However, some may offer overnight and longer-term child care.
Typically, you’ll pay your babysitter an hourly rate without benefits. Babysitters usually provide care for children under 4 years old, but they can also assist into the teenage years.
Many babysitters have key attributes, including flexibility and fewer hours. But keep in mind: all babysitters are different. Expectations should always be communicated clearly.
Flexible and typically younger
Babysitters tend to be younger individuals gaining real-world work experience. Many are high school or college students. Because of this, babysitters generally have broad availability and flexible schedules.
Short-term, hourly basis
Babysitters are typically hired for specific hours at a predetermined hourly rate. Hourly rates vary by region and services. For instance, a babysitter in New York City expected to do light housework may charge more than a babysitter in Charlotte with no additional work requirements.
- To determine how much to pay a babysitter per hour, start by learning the average babysitting rate in your state. You can use this information as a starting point when building your budget for childcare.
- Most parents hire babysitters for 3-15 hours per week, or about 12-60 hours per month. Your babysitter cost per month will depend on your babysitter’s hourly rate.
- Most babysitters expect payment within 24 hours of job completion. Babysitting apps like SitterTree make this easy with in-app payments and reminders.
- Even if you hire a babysitter, you may be obligated to pay a ‘nanny tax’. In 2025, you’re subject to a nanny tax if you pay your sitter more than $2,800 in a year. If you’re approaching this threshold, you and your babysitter may need to file specific tax forms.
Personality that fits your family
While many babysitters are high-energy, it’s important to select a babysitter with a personality that suits your family. For instance, if you have a sensitive and quiet newborn, you may seek out a babysitter with a sweet and gentle personality. If your toddler loves water play and outdoor games, you might opt for a more outgoing sitter. Take notes of prospective babysitters’ personalities and interests when interviewing.
Limited household responsibilities
Babysitters are generally only responsible for cleaning up after themselves and your children. They don’t typically take on household chores beyond what's related to their time spent with your children.
Basic safety and first aid
While many babysitters are CPR-certified or have basic first aid training, their experience
can vary. Babysitting apps like SitterTree make it easy to see which sitters have the certifications you need.
Adaptable and flexible
Since babysitters are hired on an as-needed basis, they tend to be more flexible and available for last-minute needs.
Primarily in-home care
Babysitters usually work in the family’s home, though you may find some that prefer to work in their own home.
Still not sure if a babysitter vs nanny is right for your family? Learn more about the role and responsibilities of a nanny below.
What is a nanny?
A nanny is a caregiver who provides regular, long-term child care. They generally provide consistent, weekly child care—ranging from part-time to full-time.
Nannies may take on additional responsibilities around the house, as well as handling pick-ups, drop-offs, or errands. Typically, they provide child care for children under 4 years old. On average, nannies work for 6-10 hours per day*, or 20+ hours per week. Many nannies offer overnight or extended child care as needed.
Payment for your nanny can be hourly or salary-based, but most nannies expect benefits and PTO. Nannies are considered household employees. It’s important to learn about tax implications and your role as an employer before hiring a nanny.
Still wondering: what’s the difference between a nanny and a babysitter? Read on to learn more about nannies and their responsibilities.
Dedicated child care professional
Nannies are often career child care providers, bringing formal experience or training in early childhood development. Their specialties can help your child grow emotionally, socially, and intellectually.
Structured and reliable schedule
Nannies typically work on a set schedule, providing consistent care on a part or full-time basis. Hiring a nanny is ideal for families who need regular care during the week.
Customized care plans
Nannies can tailor daily routines to your child's needs, incorporating meals, naps, educational activities, and more. This personalized approach helps support your child’s development.
Additional household responsibilities
Nannies often handle light household tasks related to child care, such as preparing meals, doing laundry, or organizing toys and play areas. This extra help can make day-to-day life easier for busy parents.
Strong communication skills
Nannies typically provide updates and check-ins with parents to keep everyone up to speed with the child’s needs and progress.
Long-term, family-like bond
Nannies spend a lot of time with your family, which has a welcome side effect—deep, meaningful relationships. Nannies often become a trusted and beloved part of your child's life, long after they’re no longer needed.
Higher compensation reflects their role
You should expect to pay an hourly rate or a salary for a nanny. Nanny rates can be higher than babysitter rates, since they take on more responsibilities, bring more experience, and work on a more regular basis. As a household employee, many nannies expect a contract with packages including benefits, paid time off, sick leave, and more.
Since nannies are typically hired by parents who work full-time, many parents weigh the cost of a nanny vs daycare to help make their child care decision. The cost of daycare is usually significantly lower than hiring a nanny, but enrolling your child in daycare comes with its own pros and cons.
Hiring a nanny can be an investment in your family’s future—nannies often work with families for several years until the children are school-aged.
| Comparing | Babysitters | Nannies |
|---|---|---|
Hourly rates | $18/hour* (based on a nationwide average–be sure to check your state) | $24/hour* (based on a nationwide average–be sure to check your state) |
Number of hours | 3-15/week | 20-40/week |
Number of children | Varies, but usually 3 children or less | Varies, but usually 3 children or less |
Age range of children | Typically 4 years and under, but can extend to pre-teen and teenage years | Typically 4 years and under |
Payment schedule | By the hour | $824/week* (based on 40 hours/week, before taxes) |
Employment status | Temporary, but sometimes regular | Regular |
Tax forms required | Yes, if paid over $2800/year | Yes |
Duties beyond child care | Sometimes, as agreed upon | Yes, can include meal prep, housework, pick-ups, drop-offs and errands |
Is a babysitter or nanny best for your family?
The number of hours you need child care per week is the biggest factor to consider when selecting a babysitter vs nanny.
If you need care for:
- Occasional date nights
- One-off events
- Appointments or errands
- A once or twice weekly time block (like after school care)
…then a babysitter might be right for you.
If you need care:
- While one or both parents work
- Consistently for more than 20+ hours per week
- For an extended period of time
…then a nanny might be right for you. Ultimately, choosing between a babysitter and a nanny depends on your family’s unique schedule and lifestyle. Once you’ve decided what type of child care you need, you can easily find a babysitter or nanny on one of the best babysitting apps.
Sources
*Based on 5 months of historical data from SitterTree job listings.
**Rate data based on 2025 data from ZipRecruiter (https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Nanny-Salary, https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Babysitter-Job-Salary)