Babysitter Rates: How Much Should You Pay?

What is the current babysitter rate? This seems to be one of the most common questions asked these days. It is also a question that doesn't have one definite answer. On the average, sitters are usually paid anywhere from $3-$12. This seems to be quite a wide bracket. This is only because there are several factors that determine the exact rate of pay.

Location

Regions and areas may have slightly different rates. Urban areas in particular may have steeper rates than rural ones. You may be able to get an idea of rates in your particular area by looking for online average rates. You could also survey your neighbors on how much they would consider paying a sitter. If you have a particular preference for a sitter who lives far away, you may have to pay her extra due to transportation expenses.

Number of Kids

Another big determining factor for the rates is the number of kids. You can hardly expect a sitter to work for only $3 if she has to watch over three kids or more. Aside from the number of kids, you also have to consider the ages of the kids she has to look after. Younger kids and babies are naturally more difficult to watch over. They may be hard to discipline and they have many needs that require the babysitter's attention. You would therefore have to pay a high rate if you have a toddler. You would have to pay an even higher rate if you have more than one toddler.

Sitter's Age

The age of the sitter is also another factor which affects the rate. Teens aged 16-18 and adults would naturally have to be paid higher than younger sitters. Those who are in the 11-15 years old bracket may be contented with $3-$5 an hour. You need to be choosy though. You can't just pick a young sitter just because she has a lower rate. You would really need an older teen or an adult sitter if you have lots of kids or if you have young kids that need minding. Young babysitters may not know how to handle small kids or respond to emergency situations.

Experience

The sitter's babysitting experience should also be considered, of course. Those who have extensive experience would charge a lot. Those who have special first aid and emergency training would also want to receive more.

Work Details

Most babysitter rates cover only basic babysitting duties. Often though, you would have to ask your sitter to perform a couple of extra tasks. You may have to pay extra if you expect her to cook for the kids or tutor them. Other work details that affect the rate include number of hours of work and specific hours of the day on duty. Night sitters may require high rates.

Specific Days on the Month

Some babysitters will charge more for particular days of the month. Expect to pay more for sitters who work on rest days, holidays and Sundays.

There are other factors that can affect the babysitter rate. What you have to really do to find your sitter's exact rate is to talk to your sitter. Negotiate on a rate that both of you will find acceptable.