Reviewed by the Nanny Lane team · Last updated
How much does a full-time nanny cost in San Diego, CA in 2026?
In San Diego, CA, the average full-time nanny earns about $24.26 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $970/week or $4,205/month. Most San Diego families pay somewhere in the $17–$35/hour range, depending on experience, the number of kids, and what's expected on the job.
Average hourly rate$24.26/hr · San Diego average
These numbers come from 299 live full-time nanny listings in San Diego on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.
- Weekly
(40 hrs) - $970
- Monthly
- $4,205
- Annual
- $50,461
Find full-time nannies near you
What drives the price
Most San Diego families pay somewhere in the $17–$35/hour range. Where a given family lands depends on a handful of factors. Three of them drive most of the spread.
01
Experience
More experienced full-time nannys command higher rates. Entry-level (3-5 yrs) average $23.93/hour, while the most experienced (6-10 yrs) charge around $26.82/hour.
Avg hourly rate by years of experience
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) | $24.26 |
|---|---|
| 2 kids | ~$25.26 |
| 3+ kids | ~$26.26+ |
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 full-time nanny rates
| Arrangement | Typical hours | Average rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 35–50 hrs/week | $24.96/hr | See full-time rates → |
| Live-in | Set by family | $25.12/hr | See live-in rates → |
Live-in rates are close to live-out here — but the package usually still includes room and board, so the all-in cost can be lower than it appears.The trade-off is space — you'll need a private bedroom and ideally a separate bathroom for the full-time nanny.
How do San Diego full-time nanny rates compare to state and national averages?
San Diego is one of the more expensive full-time nanny markets in the country.
Hiring full-time nannies in San Diego, CA typically costs about 4% more than the California average of $23/hour and 23% more than the United States average of $20/hour.
| Area | Average hourly rate | vs. San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| San Diego, CA | $24/hr | — |
| California | $23/hr | -4% |
| United States | $20/hr | -18% |
Where San Diego, CA fits among nearby cities
9 nearby cities have enough full-time nanny data to compare, with rates ranging from $19.15/hour in Fresno to $28.63/hour in San Francisco.
Below: how each compares to the San Diego, CA average of $24.26/hour — San Diego, CA is highlighted at its true rank.
Nearby cities ranked by full-time nanny rate
| # | City | $/hr | vs. San Diego, CA | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Francisco | $28.63 | +18% | |
| 2 | San Jose | $26.17 | +8% | |
| 3 | Oakland | $25.48 | +5% | |
| 4 | Los Angeles | $25.42 | +5% | |
| 5 | San Diego | $24.26 | — | |
| 6 | Sacramento | $21.63 | -11% | |
| 7 | Stockton | $19.71 | -19% | |
| 8 | Bakersfield | $19.39 | -20% | |
| 9 | Fresno | $19.15 | -21% |
● Most expensive nearby: San Francisco ($28.63)● Least expensive nearby: Fresno ($19.15)
Tips to find a great full-time nanny without overpaying
- Be flexible on experience. Some of the best full-time nannies on the platform have 3–5 years on the job and charge meaningfully less than experienced full-time 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 full-time 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 full-time nanny in San Diego, CA
Nanny Lane is a marketplace built specifically for connecting families with full-time nannies — no recruiters in the middle. Most families work through it like this:
- 01
Browse full-time nanny profiles in San Diego, CA
Filter by hourly rate, experience, languages, and availability.
- 02
Message the ones who look like a fit
Reach out to the full-time 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 full-time nanny fits with your family in real time.
- 04
Hire your full-time nanny
If you'd rather not handle taxes and payroll yourself, our payroll team can take care of it.
Available full-time nannies in San Diego, CA
299 active listings in San Diego
Nanny Sarah
Nanny Sarah
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
8 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi, I’m Sarah Kuhns! I’m a caring, dependable, and nurturing nanny who truly enjoys spending time with children. I love creating a fun, safe, and loving environment where little ones can learn, play, and feel comfortable. I’m excited to build a trusting relationship with your family and provide the best care for your children!
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Faith
Nanny Faith
San Diego, CA
$20 - $25/hr
Full-time
Part-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
My name is Faith. I am located in San Diego, California. I am a U.S. citizen and a fluent English speaker. I am CPR certified.
I have been babysitting and teaching for about 4 years, and have volunteered with special needs children for longer. I grew up with and have a special needs sister. I’ve worked at gyms that offer childcare, and most recently at a Montessori school, where I learned the Montessori method. I have experience with children from the infant stage to the teenage years.
I was homeschooled K-12, and loved it, and have taught a few classes for homeschool co-ops since.
I do not:
🚫 Smoke
🚫 Drink alcohol
🚫 Take any medications
🚫 Have any record
I do:
✅ Love kids at every age
✅ Love to teach
✅ Love to travel
✅ Make organization and cleanliness a priority
✅ Love making hands on and creative activities for kids
✅ Love the outdoors, and always keep screens as a last ditch option.
✅ Cook and clean when needed or asked
✅ Have potty training experience
I have been babysitting and teaching for about 4 years, and have volunteered with special needs children for longer. I grew up with and have a special needs sister. I’ve worked at gyms that offer childcare, and most recently at a Montessori school, where I learned the Montessori method. I have experience with children from the infant stage to the teenage years.
I was homeschooled K-12, and loved it, and have taught a few classes for homeschool co-ops since.
I do not:
🚫 Smoke
🚫 Drink alcohol
🚫 Take any medications
🚫 Have any record
I do:
✅ Love kids at every age
✅ Love to teach
✅ Love to travel
✅ Make organization and cleanliness a priority
✅ Love making hands on and creative activities for kids
✅ Love the outdoors, and always keep screens as a last ditch option.
✅ Cook and clean when needed or asked
✅ Have potty training experience
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Katheryn
Nanny Katheryn
San Diego, CA
$24/hr
Full-time
6 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello!
My name is Katie, i’m 24 and I love coloring, reading, and creating positive uplifting bonds that brighten a child’s day! :)
My name is Katie, i’m 24 and I love coloring, reading, and creating positive uplifting bonds that brighten a child’s day! :)
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Janay
Nanny Janay
San Diego, CA
$17 - $20/hr
Full-time
Part-time
5 years experience
A little bit about me
I am janay I am 23 about to be 24 i been working with newborn to old for years I love kids and they love me I am cpr certified and I am reliable
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Blu
Nanny Blu
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
Hi I’m Blu. My very first job was babysitting and I’ve never worked a job to this day that didn’t involve child care. I have experience as a youth sports coach, mental health counselor, tutor, elementary aide, preschool teacher, and nanny of course! I have maintained CPr/first aid certifications for over 10 years. My bachelor’s degree is in psychology with a minor in early intervention and early childhood special education. And while all of that is very serious to me, I just may be the silliest adult you’ve ever met. My passion lies in watching children learn and grow on their terms while maintaining boundaries and safety. I truly care about every family and child I have ever worked with and will become a loyal and supportive part of any household that I am welcomed into.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Karin
Nanny Karin
San Diego, CA
$25 - $30/hr
Full-time
Part-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
Hi, I’m Karin! I’m a warm, reliable, and energetic nanny with 15 years of experience caring for children of all ages, from newborns to school-age kids. I believe children thrive when they feel safe, loved, and engaged, and I’m passionate about creating that environment every day. I’ve worked with families in one-on-one, multi-child, or both settings. I’m CPR and First Aid certified. I’m comfortable handling daily routines, meal preparation, outdoor play, educational activities, and light household tasks related to the children. My approach is patient, playful, and consistent. I love reading books, doing arts and crafts, exploring nature, and turning everyday moments into learning opportunities. Parents often tell me their children look forward to my visits and that I bring calm energy and clear communication. I’m reliable, flexible, and fully committed to supporting both the children and the family. I hope l can meet you soon!
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Maria
Nanny Maria
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
I’ve always loved working with kids and have over 3 years of babysitting experience caring for children of different ages. Babysitting has taught me how to create a safe, fun, and nurturing environment while staying patient, responsible, and adaptable to each child’s unique personality and needs.
I’m also a proud mom to my 4-month-old baby girl, so childcare isn’t just something I do, it’s my everyday life! From bottles and bedtime routines to tummy time, playtime, and lots of cuddles, I’ve gained hands-on experience with infant care while learning the importance of consistency, compassion, and positive role modeling.
Whether we’re doing crafts, reading stories, playing games, or encouraging curiosity through everyday adventures, I love helping children feel happy, confident, and cared for. My goal is always to be a positive role model who makes every child feel safe, supported, and excited to learn and grow.
In this position I would prefer if my daughter could come along!
I’m also a proud mom to my 4-month-old baby girl, so childcare isn’t just something I do, it’s my everyday life! From bottles and bedtime routines to tummy time, playtime, and lots of cuddles, I’ve gained hands-on experience with infant care while learning the importance of consistency, compassion, and positive role modeling.
Whether we’re doing crafts, reading stories, playing games, or encouraging curiosity through everyday adventures, I love helping children feel happy, confident, and cared for. My goal is always to be a positive role model who makes every child feel safe, supported, and excited to learn and grow.
In this position I would prefer if my daughter could come along!
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Faith
Nanny Faith
San Diego, CA
$23 - $30/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello! My name is Faith, and I’m a dependable, caring, and energetic caregiver who genuinely enjoys working with children. I recently graduated from Grand Canyon University with a bachelor’s degree in Professional Writing for New Media.
I believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Whether we’re reading books, doing arts and crafts, playing outside, helping with homework, or exploring creative learning activities, I strive to make each day both fun and meaningful. I’m patient, responsible, and enjoy building genuine relationships with the children and families I work with.
In addition to childcare, I’m happy to help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, running errands, transportation, homework assistance, and keeping the household organized. My goal is to make life easier for parents while providing children with a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where they can learn, have fun, and feel cared for.
I believe every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and encouraged to grow. Whether we’re reading books, doing arts and crafts, playing outside, helping with homework, or exploring creative learning activities, I strive to make each day both fun and meaningful. I’m patient, responsible, and enjoy building genuine relationships with the children and families I work with.
In addition to childcare, I’m happy to help with light housekeeping, meal preparation, running errands, transportation, homework assistance, and keeping the household organized. My goal is to make life easier for parents while providing children with a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment where they can learn, have fun, and feel cared for.
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Darlene
Nanny Darlene
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
Hi! I’m Darlene, a TrustLine-certified childcare provider with a cleared background check. I’m currently a nanny caring for an infant and have the opportunity to welcome one additional infant or toddler into the home. I provide loving, dependable care in a small, nurturing environment where little ones can learn, play, and thrive. I’m available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. I’d love to connect with your family!
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid