Reviewed by the Nanny Lane team · Last updated
How much does a live-in nanny cost in Indianapolis, IN in 2026?
In Indianapolis, IN, the average live-in nanny earns about $17.45 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $698/week or $3,025/month. Most Indianapolis families pay somewhere in the $8–$28/hour range, depending on experience, the number of kids, and what's expected on the job.
Average hourly rate$17.45/hr · Indianapolis average
These numbers come from 146 live live-in nanny listings in Indianapolis on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.
- Weekly
(40 hrs) - $698
- Monthly
- $3,025
- Annual
- $36,296
Find live-in nannies near you
What drives the price
Most Indianapolis families pay somewhere in the $8–$28/hour range. Where a given family lands depends on a handful of factors. Three of them drive most of the spread.
01
Experience
Experience is one of the biggest levers on a live-in nanny's rate.
Nannies with 10+ years, or specialty skills like newborn care or multiple languages, typically command the highest hourly rates.
02
Number of kids
One child is the baseline. Each additional child usually adds $1–$2/hour. Twins and infants tend toward the high end.
+$1 to $2/hour per additional child
| 1 kid (baseline) | $17.45 |
|---|---|
| 2 kids | ~$18.45 |
| 3+ kids | ~$19.45+ |
03
Hours & schedule
Standard weekday daytime hours are easiest to staff. Early mornings, evenings, weekends, and last-minute coverage all push rates up.
10–20%premium for off-hours coverage
| Weekday 9–5 (standard) | — |
|---|---|
| Evening/weekend | +$2–4/hr |
| Last-minute | +$3–5/hr |
Also factor in: live-in vs. live-out · household duties beyond childcare · driving · cooking · travel.
Full-time, part-time, and live-in live-in nanny rates
| Arrangement | Typical hours | Average rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 35–50 hrs/week | $19.05/hr | See full-time rates → |
| Live-in | Set by family | $18.21/hr | See live-in rates → |
Live-in arrangements look cheaper per hour because room and board are part of the package. The trade-off is space — you'll need a private bedroom and ideally a separate bathroom for the live-in nanny.
How do Indianapolis live-in nanny rates compare to state and national averages?
Indianapolis runs below the U.S. average for live-in nanny rates — a meaningful budget advantage for families looking here.
Hiring live-in nannies in Indianapolis, IN typically costs about 5% more than the Indiana average of $17/hour and 9% less than the United States average of $19/hour.
| Area | Average hourly rate | vs. Indianapolis, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis, IN | $17/hr | — |
| Indiana | $17/hr | -5% |
| United States | $19/hr | +10% |
Tips to find a great live-in nanny without overpaying
- Be flexible on experience. Some of the best live-in nannies on the platform have 3–5 years on the job and charge meaningfully less than experienced live-in nannies with 10+ years. References matter more than years.
- Consider a share. If your kids are similar ages and you live near another family, a share is the single biggest cost reduction available without compromising on care.
- Be specific about hours upfront. Most live-in nannies will take a slightly lower rate for a guaranteed steady schedule than for a higher-rate, unpredictable one.
- Bundle benefits thoughtfully. Two weeks PTO, a health stipend, transit passes, education assistance, or an annual raise commitment can help close the gap with families offering a higher hourly rate.
- Match rate to responsibilities. A higher rate often makes sense once you add cooking, errands, or driving. Don't compare apples to oranges across listings.
How to reduce nanny costs?
Split the cost of a nanny with another family
and enjoy flexible child care.
and enjoy flexible child care.
How families use Nanny Lane to find a live-in nanny in Indianapolis, IN
Nanny Lane is a marketplace built specifically for connecting families with live-in nannies — no recruiters in the middle. Most families work through it like this:
- 01
Browse live-in nanny profiles in Indianapolis, IN
Filter by hourly rate, experience, languages, and availability.
- 02
Message the ones who look like a fit
Reach out to the live-in nannies whose experience and rate match what you're looking for.
- 03
Schedule a phone call, then a paid trial day
Trial days feel awkward at first — that's normal. They're the best way to see how a live-in nanny fits with your family in real time.
- 04
Hire your live-in nanny
If you'd rather not handle taxes and payroll yourself, our payroll team can take care of it.
Available live-in nannies in Indianapolis, IN
146 active listings in Indianapolis
Nanny Katie
Nanny Katie
Indianapolis, IN
$18 - $25/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi! My name is Katie, and I’m a college student studying toward my goal of becoming a pediatric nurse. I’m a caring, patient, and responsible person who really enjoys being around children. I love creating a fun and safe environment where kids can feel comfortable and be themselves. I’m happy to help with playtime, crafts, activities, meals, homework, and keeping up with routines. I’m dependable and understand how important it is for parents to feel comfortable and trust the person caring for their children. I would love the opportunity to get to know your family and make sure your kids feel happy, safe, and cared for!
Have experience working with
Special Needs
Nanny Mariah
Nanny Mariah
Indianapolis, IN
$18/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi if you’re looking for a positive influence with a love for arts and crafts for your potential nanny I truly believe I am your best pick. I love children and animals so pets are no worries. I enjoy exploring the creative side of children as it shows their personality.
Have experience working with
Special Needs
Certification
CPR
Nanny Brianne
Nanny Brianne
Indianapolis, IN
$17/hr
Part-time
5 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi! I'm Brianne, and I'm a caring, dependable, and patient person. I'm responsible, organized, and understand the importance of building trust with both kids and parents. Whether we're doing crafts, playing outside, helping with homework, or sticking to daily routines, I strive to make every day enjoyable while ensuring children feel safe and supported. I pride myself on being reliable, communicative, and someone families can count on. I look forward to getting to know your family and becoming someone your children are excited to see each day!
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certification
First Aid
Nanny Jaymee
Nanny Jaymee
Indianapolis, IN
$21 - $25/hr
Full-time
4 years experience
A little bit about me
I am a caring, responsible, and patient individual with a genuine love for working with children. I enjoy creating a safe, fun, and supportive environment where kids can learn, grow, and feel comfortable being themselves. I am reliable, organized, and attentive to each child’s unique needs, whether that means helping with daily routines, encouraging creativity, or providing emotional support. I value clear communication with families and strive to be someone parents can trust and depend on. My goal as a nanny is to positively impact children’s lives while supporting their development and well-being.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Desiree
Nanny Desiree
Indianapolis, IN
$18/hr
Part-time
9 years experience
A little bit about me
I’m 20 years old,I’m a server,I love cleaning when I’m bored,I love helping little learn new things and trying new things
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Nanny Savannah
Nanny Savannah
Indianapolis, IN
$18/hr
Full-time
7 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi there! My name is Savannah Davis, and I’m an experienced childcare professional with a genuine passion for helping children learn, grow, and feel loved. I’m currently pursuing a degree in Early Childhood Education and hold certifications in CPR, First Aid, and all center-required childcare safety training.
With several years of experience working in early learning centers, I’ve cared for children of all ages — from curious toddlers to imaginative preschoolers. I believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where kids can explore the world through play, creativity, and hands-on learning.
Families I work with often describe me as patient, dependable, and warm-hearted. Whether it’s helping with routines, encouraging milestones, or simply making the day fun, I take pride in bringing consistency and care into each child’s day.
I’d love the opportunity to support your family and provide the same level of care and attention I give my own loved ones.
With several years of experience working in early learning centers, I’ve cared for children of all ages — from curious toddlers to imaginative preschoolers. I believe in creating a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where kids can explore the world through play, creativity, and hands-on learning.
Families I work with often describe me as patient, dependable, and warm-hearted. Whether it’s helping with routines, encouraging milestones, or simply making the day fun, I take pride in bringing consistency and care into each child’s day.
I’d love the opportunity to support your family and provide the same level of care and attention I give my own loved ones.
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Lucy
Nanny Lucy
Indianapolis, IN
$17/hr
Full-time
Part-time
5 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi, my name is Lucy! I am 20 year old student at Butler University. I was born and raised in the downtown Indy area! I love making crafts and I love animals.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Nanny Keniya
Nanny Keniya
Indianapolis, IN
$17/hr
Full-time
4 years experience
A little bit about me
Hey, my name is Ke’Niya I’m a young mom but the oldest of my siblings I love and enjoy kids I’m in nursing school for obgyn I know how it feels to have nobody helping and since I’ve been through i would love to help other parents
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Miranda
Nanny Miranda
Indianapolis, IN
$18 - $20/hr
Full-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
Hi! My name is Miranda, and I’ve always had a natural love for caring for kids. I am an experienced nanny with 16 years of childcare experience and am currently seeking a wonderful family to work with. My availability is Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:30–6:00 PM. My rate ranges from $26–$30 per hour, depending on responsibilities and family needs. I am CPR and AED certified, have a valid driver's license, and am looking for a family that provides a vehicle for transporting the children to and from activities, appointments, and outings. I am happy to assist with light housekeeping related to the children, plan engaging activities, and help create a fun, nurturing, and supportive environment. I am also open to traveling with your family when needed. I am a warm, welcoming, and dependable caregiver who truly enjoys working with children, and I look forward to finding my next long-term family.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid