Reviewed by the Nanny Lane team · Last updated

How much does a babysitter cost in Los Angeles, CA in 2026?

In Los Angeles, CA, the average babysitter earns about $24.56 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $982/week or $4,257/month. Most Los Angeles 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$24.56/hr · Los Angeles average

These numbers come from 2,852 live babysitter listings in Los Angeles on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.

$982
$4,257
$51,085

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What drives the price

Most Los Angeles 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 babysitters command higher rates. Entry-level (0-2 yrs) average $23.10/hour, while the most experienced (6-10 yrs) charge around $27.86/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
Hourly rate by number of kids
1 kid (baseline)$24.56
2 kids~$25.56
3+ kids~$26.56+

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
Hourly rate adjustment by schedule
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 babysitter rates

ArrangementTypical hoursAverage rate
Full-time35–50 hrs/week$26.29/hr
Part-time10–25 hrs/week$24.79/hr
Occasional5–15 hrs/week$24.71/hr
Live-inSet by family$24.92/hr

Part-time runs slightly lower per hour than full-time here, which often means strong full-time demand supports higher rates for committed schedules.

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 babysitter.

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How do Los Angeles babysitter rates compare to state and national averages?

Los Angeles is one of the more expensive babysitter markets in the country.

Hiring babysitters in Los Angeles, CA typically costs about 9% more than the California average of $23/hour and 29% more than the United States average of $19/hour.

Average hourly babysitters rates compared across Los Angeles, CA and reference areas.
AreaAverage hourly ratevs. Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles, CA$25/hr
California$23/hr-8%
United States$19/hr-22%

Where Los Angeles, CA fits among nearby cities

10 nearby cities have enough babysitter data to compare, with rates ranging from $18.97/hour in Fresno to $28.09/hour in San Francisco.

Below: how each compares to the Los Angeles, CA average of $24.56/hour — Los Angeles, CA is highlighted at its true rank.

Nearby cities ranked by babysitter rate

10 cities near Los Angeles, CA ranked by average hourly babysitter rate, most to least expensive.
#City$/hrvs. Los Angeles, CA
1San Francisco$28.09+14%
2San Jose$25.23+3%
Los Angeles$24.56
4San Diego$23.54-4%
5Long Beach$22.25-9%
6Sacramento$20.87-15%
7Riverside$19.88-19%
8Stockton$19.64-20%
9Bakersfield$19.11-22%
10Fresno$18.97-23%
Most expensive nearby: San Francisco ($28.09) Least expensive nearby: Fresno ($18.97)

Tips to find a great babysitter without overpaying

  • Be flexible on experience. Some of the best babysitters on the platform have 3–5 years on the job and charge meaningfully less than experienced babysitters 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 babysitters 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.
Learn more about nanny sharing

How families use Nanny Lane to find a babysitter in Los Angeles, CA

Nanny Lane is a marketplace built specifically for connecting families with babysitters — no recruiters in the middle. Most families work through it like this:

  1. 01

    Browse babysitter profiles in Los Angeles, CA

    Filter by hourly rate, experience, languages, and availability.

  2. 02

    Message the ones who look like a fit

    Reach out to the babysitters whose experience and rate match what you're looking for.

  3. 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 babysitter fits with your family in real time.

  4. 04

    Hire your babysitter

    If you'd rather not handle taxes and payroll yourself, our payroll team can take care of it.

Available babysitters in Los Angeles, CA

2,852 active listings in Los Angeles

Aileen A. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Aileen

Los Angeles, CA
$25/hr
Part-time
Occasional
1 year experience

A little bit about me

Hi! My name is Aileen, and I’m a loving and dependable mom to a 4-year-old daughter. I currently work part-time as a Medical Assistant, which has given me experience being responsible, attentive, and caring toward others. I’ve also always been the reliable sitter in my family, caring for children ranging from infants to 9 years old over the years. As a mom, I understand how important it is for children to feel safe, comfortable, and engaged, and I enjoy creating fun and age-appropriate activities throughout the day, from reading books and playing with toys to going to the park and exploring new things. I’m also very comfortable around pets—I have a Golden Retriever and a cat who get along wonderfully, so I’m happy to help families with their pets as well. I would love the opportunity to bring my experience, patience, and nurturing personality to help support other families and provide their children with safe, caring, and enjoyable childcare.

Have experience working with

Infants

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Franque' M. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Franque'

Los Angeles, CA
$25 - $32/hr
Full-time
Part-time
Occasional
5 years experience

A little bit about me

Warm, dependable, and college-educated childcare professional with experience in private childcare, preschool teaching, special education, and children’s gymnastics. I enjoy creating structured, nurturing environments while helping with learning, routines, meals, and household organization. I am CPR/First Aid certified, water-safety trained, and seeking a long-term live-in position in Los Angeles. I am ready to relocate for the right family.

Have experience working with

Infants
Special Needs

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Natalie C. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Natalie

Los Angeles, CA
$23 - $30/hr
Occasional
5 years experience

A little bit about me

Hi! My name is Natalie. I’m a caring and dependable mother with about four years of professional experience working with children as a Behavior Therapist. I have experience supporting children with different personalities, needs, and abilities, including children with autism and developmental differences.

I’m patient, energetic, and hands on. I enjoy arts and crafts, outdoor activities, educational games, homework help, and creating fun routines that keep children engaged. As both a mother and a childcare professional, I understand how important it is to find someone who will keep your child safe, comfortable, and genuinely cared for. I’m reliable, communicative, and respectful of each family’s routines and parenting preferences. I would love the opportunity to support your family!

Have experience working with

Special Needs

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Angel M. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Angel

Los Angeles, CA
$25/hr
Part-time
Occasional
10+ years experience

A little bit about me

Hi! I’m Angel 💕 I’m the oldest of my siblings, so caring for kids has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. I’ve helped raise all 3 of my younger siblings and have years of nannying and babysitting experience. I’m responsible, patient, fun, and great with tutoring and homework help! I also have a reliable Tesla, so I’m happy to help with school pickups, activities, and errands when needed. I’d love to become someone your family and little ones can truly trust and feel comfortable with!

Have experience working with

Infants
Special Needs

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Amelia F. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Amelia

Los Angeles, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
Part-time
Occasional
2 years experience

A little bit about me

Hi families! I am a recent graduate from Occidental College. I love working with children of all ages--I have been babysitting since middle school and have two summers of experience as a camp counselor at a residential Girl Scouts camp. I am happy to provide references upon request! I look forward to meeting you!

Have experience working with

Infants

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Rebeka G. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Rebeka

Los Angeles, CA
$25/hr
Part-time
Occasional
5 years experience

A little bit about me

Hi! My name is Rebeka, and I'm a caring, responsible, and patient babysitter who truly enjoys working with children. I have experience caring for kids of different ages, as well as teaching and coaching children, which has helped me become great at keeping them engaged, active, and comfortable.

I'm dependable, organized, and attentive, and I always make safety a priority. I'm happy to help with playtime, homework, meals and snacks, bedtime routines, light cleaning, and keeping children entertained with fun activities. I also understand that every child has a different personality and routine, so I'm patient and flexible when it comes to their individual needs.

I'm currently a pre-nursing student and hope to continue working with children throughout my healthcare career. I would love the opportunity to become a trusted helping hand for your family and create a safe, positive, and fun environment for your children!

Have experience working with

Infants
Special Needs

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Debora I. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Debora

Los Angeles, CA
$25 - $35/hr
Part-time
Occasional
6 years experience

A little bit about me

Hello, my name is Debora, and a little bit about me is that I love to dance, sight see and watch movies.
Some of the things that I offer as a caregiver is that I am dependable, caring support for your family and home.
With years of experience as a nanny, babysitter, and teacher—including work with the Boys & Girls Club—I’ve cared for kids of all ages, from infants to teens. I’m passionate about creating a safe, fun, and structured environment where kids can thrive.
How I Can Help Your Family
Childcare & Activities: Homework help, creative projects, engaging play, and transportation.
Household Support: Meal prep and light housekeeping to keep your day running smoothly.
Flexible Care: Adaptable to your daily routine and schedule.
If you'd think I'd be a great fit for your family please feel free to reach out with any questions that you may have. I look forward to getting acquainted!

Have experience working with

Infants

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Alex F. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Alex

Los Angeles, CA
$25 - $33/hr
Full-time
Part-time
Occasional
7 years experience

A little bit about me

Hi! My name is Alex, and I have been a working nanny in Studio City for 2 years. I have 7 years of professional childcare experience in a variety of settings, such as daycares, fitness classes, and at home. I specialize in toddlers and elementary schoolers, coming up with fun activities to practice foundational physical and academic skills. I am comfortable with driving, housework, pets, and meal prep. I am in the process of completing my Master's of Education in Elementary education. My past employers would describe me as warm, bubbly, and reliable.

Have experience working with

Infants
Special Needs

Certifications

CPR
First Aid
Janessa N. - Seeking Work in Los Angeles

Nanny Janessa

Los Angeles, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
Part-time
Occasional
10+ years experience

A little bit about me

Hi! I’m Janessa — your fun, caring, and dependable sitter! A warm, energetic, and dependable caregiver who genuinely loves being around kids. I’ve spent years helping care for my younger cousins, which taught me patience, responsibility, and how to make everyday moments fun and memorable. I’m the type of person who will happily join in on crafts, games, outdoor adventures, movie nights, or whatever your little ones are excited about!

Beyond childcare, I have a strong professional background that has helped me become organized, communicative, adaptable, and dependable. I take pride in being someone families can trust and count on. My goal is to create a safe, positive, and fun environment where children feel comfortable being themselves while parents feel completely at ease. I’m excited to bring my personality, creativity, and caring nature into a professional nanny role and become someone a family can truly rely on!

Have experience working with

Infants
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