How Much Do Babysitters Make in NYC

If you're a parent in New York City, finding a trustworthy babysitter is often a top priority. 

But how much should you expect to pay, or if you’re a sitter, how much can you expect to earn?

As of October 2024, the average rate for babysitting in NYC is $20.93 per hour. Let’s examine why rates are high and what affects babysitter pay in the city.

Why Are Babysitting Rates So High in NYC:

Babysitting in New York City costs more than in many other places, and there are a few big reasons why:

1. Cost of Living: NYC has one of the highest costs of living in the U.S., and babysitters need to cover their own expenses like rent and transportation, which drives up the rates.

2. Constant Demand: With so many parents working full-time, there’s a steady demand for reliable babysitters, keeping rates higher than in smaller towns or cities.

3. Experienced Sitters Get Paid More: In NYC, parents often look for sitters with experience, special skills, or certifications like CPR. Sitters with these qualifications can charge more.

Factors That Affect Babysitter Pay:

Even though the average is $20.93 an hour, several things can affect how much a sitter earns:

Experience and Skills: Sitters with more experience or special skills (like helping with homework or speaking multiple languages) often earn higher rates.

Number of Kids: Watching multiple kids is usually more demanding, so rates go up when sitters look after more than one child.

Time and Duration: Babysitting on weekends, evenings, or late nights can mean higher rates. Long-term gigs might lead to special rates, especially for consistent after school care.

Location: Rates can vary within NYC. For example, sitters in Manhattan might charge more than those in other boroughs because of higher living costs.

Finding a Babysitter in NYC:

Need a babysitter in NYC? Here are a few ways to find one:

1. Online Platforms: Sites like Care.com, Sittercity, and UrbanSitter let you browse local sitters, check their experience, and read reviews.

2. Ask Around: Sometimes, the best recommendations come from friends, family, or neighbors who already have a great sitter they trust.

3. Agencies: Babysitting or nanny agencies can help match you with a pre-screened sitter, but it might cost a bit more.

Tips for Babysitters Looking to Earn More:

Get Certified: Taking courses in CPR, first aid, or child development can help you stand out and justify higher rates.

Offer More Services: If you can cook, help with homework, or even take care of light housework, you can charge more for these extra services.

Be Flexible: Being available for last minute gigs, overnight stays, or odd hours can make you a go-to sitter for many families, and you can often charge extra for these times.

Wrapping Up:

With an average pay of $20.93 per hour, babysitters in NYC earn more than in many other cities. 

This reflects the high demand and cost of living, but it also shows the level of trust and responsibility that comes with taking care of children.

For parents, paying a fair rate can mean finding a reliable sitter who puts them at ease. And for babysitters, understanding what factors influence rates can help maximize earnings.

Whether you’re a parent or a sitter, knowing the market rate can help set clear expectations. 

Babysitting will likely continue to be a vital service in New York City, where busy families need all the help they can get.