Reviewed by the Nanny Lane team · Last updated
How much does a full-time nanny cost in Chicago, IL in 2026?
In Chicago, IL, the average full-time nanny earns about $21.70 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $868/week or $3,761/month. Most Chicago families pay somewhere in the $15–$30/hour range, depending on experience, the number of kids, and what's expected on the job.
Average hourly rate$21.70/hr · Chicago average
These numbers come from 568 live full-time nanny listings in Chicago on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.
- Weekly
(40 hrs) - $868
- Monthly
- $3,761
- Annual
- $45,136
Find full-time nannies near you
What drives the price
Most Chicago families pay somewhere in the $15–$30/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 (0-2 yrs) average $20.42/hour, while the most experienced (6-10 yrs) charge around $24.37/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) | $21.70 |
|---|---|
| 2 kids | ~$22.70 |
| 3+ kids | ~$23.70+ |
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 | $22.33/hr | See full-time rates → |
| Live-in | Set by family | $21.05/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 full-time nanny.
How do Chicago full-time nanny rates compare to state and national averages?
Chicago runs above the U.S. average for full-time nanny rates, in line with most major metros.
Hiring full-time nannies in Chicago, IL typically costs about 7% more than the Illinois average of $20/hour and 10% more than the United States average of $20/hour.
| Area | Average hourly rate | vs. Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $22/hr | — |
| Illinois | $20/hr | -6% |
| United States | $20/hr | -9% |
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 Chicago, IL
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 Chicago, IL
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 Chicago, IL
568 active listings in Chicago
Nanny Margaret
Nanny Margaret
Chicago, IL
$22 - $25/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi there, I'm Maggie! I studied music in college and was lucky enough to work at a School of Rock for over 3 years, where I found a real passion for working with kids. Working with kids is a joy; not only do I get to be a helping hand in their lives, but they have taught me so much along the way, too. Along with that, I carry a deep passion for the arts that has pushed me to pursue a career in education within the next few years! I love crafts, music, and anything that involves using my imagination. I also love cooking and am a very tidy person. I'm happy to assist however is most helpful to your family!
Have experience working with
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Emily
Nanny Emily
Chicago, IL
$22 - $25/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello! My name is Emily. I am 21 years old and a new mom :). I have a little over 3 years of experience working with children ranging from 6 weeks old to 5 years old. I also babysit for numerous families and have daycare experience. Working with children is a passion of mine and I am even considering going back to school for my ECE :).
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Jacolyn
Nanny Jacolyn
Chicago, IL
$22 - $25/hr
Full-time
Part-time
4 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello, my name is Jacolyn and I am an experienced house manager and nanny in the chicago area. I have worked with children of all ages professionally, and I am the eldest of 7 children so childcare has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I also have experience giving voice lessons for ages 7-18 and would be happy to share that skill with your child! I also can give beginner piano and guitar lessons.
Have experience working with
Infants
Nanny Brittany
Nanny Brittany
Chicago, IL
$23 - $28/hr
Full-time
8 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello all my name is Brittany Brown. I am 32 years old and I live in Chicago Illinois. I am currently a Teachers Assistant at an elementary school in Oak park. I have a lot experience in early childhood from infant to high school age. I love early childhood and the different roles and experiences I have learned and relationships you can gain as well. I currently have an associates and a certificate in early childhood. I am currently enrolled at Roosevelt University down town Chicago nd an active member in the National honor Society as well. I graduate with my BA in early childhood and a sped endorsement in winter of 2027. I would love to be able to meet and become a care giver for a loving family and look forward to speaking with you all soon thank you!!
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Shana
Nanny Shana
Chicago, IL
$28 - $40/hr
Full-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
Hi, I'm Shana, nice to meet you!
I've had the privilege of working as a childcare professional and household manager for over a decade, and I'm grateful to continue doing work that I find deeply fulfilling.
A few years ago, my partner and I traveled the country full-time in an RV, giving me the opportunity to work with incredible families along the way. Since getting off the road, I've spent the last three years in Florida supporting a two-time Olympian and their two amazing children, strengthening my ability to stay organized, adaptable, and proactive in a fast-paced environment.
My experience includes childcare, household management, homeschooling support, schedule coordination, meal preparation, and organization. I take pride in anticipating needs, creating structure, and bringing a calm, positive presence into the home.
My partner and I recently purchased a home in Chicago, and I'm excited to find a wonderful family to support for years to come. I look forward to connecting!
I've had the privilege of working as a childcare professional and household manager for over a decade, and I'm grateful to continue doing work that I find deeply fulfilling.
A few years ago, my partner and I traveled the country full-time in an RV, giving me the opportunity to work with incredible families along the way. Since getting off the road, I've spent the last three years in Florida supporting a two-time Olympian and their two amazing children, strengthening my ability to stay organized, adaptable, and proactive in a fast-paced environment.
My experience includes childcare, household management, homeschooling support, schedule coordination, meal preparation, and organization. I take pride in anticipating needs, creating structure, and bringing a calm, positive presence into the home.
My partner and I recently purchased a home in Chicago, and I'm excited to find a wonderful family to support for years to come. I look forward to connecting!
Have experience working with
Infants
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Andrea
Nanny Andrea
Chicago, IL
$25 - $35/hr
Full-time
4 years experience
A little bit about me
I am a highly responsible, dependable, and dedicated person with a genuine passion for caring for children. I enjoy creating a safe, nurturing, and positive environment where children can learn, grow, and feel supported. I am friendly, patient, and approachable, and I take great pride in providing attentive and compassionate care. My strong work ethic, reliability, and commitment to the well-being of children make me an excellent candidate for a nanny position.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certification
CPR
Nanny DarnellT
Nanny DarnellT
Chicago, IL
$18 - $19/hr
Full-time
10+ years experience
A little bit about me
My name is Darnell Thurmond I have worked with children for more than 10 plus years in many fields from day cares to elementary schools working with kids of multiple ages including young adults and adults as well I love helping people and teaching them the many aspects of life as that is something I hold deeply to my heart.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Molly Anne
Nanny Molly Anne
Chicago, IL
$20 - $30/hr
Full-time
6 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi! I am a certified early childhood ed and special education teacher. I currently sub for cps and am looking for a summer position. I have 6+ years of experience and love working with children!
Have experience working with
Special Needs
Nanny Dasia
Nanny Dasia
Chicago, IL
$19.50 - $22.50/hr
Full-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
I have a niece who recently turned one years old, I've worked with children almost my whole life and I would love to continue it
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid