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 $24.06 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $962/week or $4,170/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$24.06/hr · San Diego average
These numbers come from 313 live full-time nanny listings in San Diego on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.
- Weekly
(40 hrs) - $962
- Monthly
- $4,170
- Annual
- $50,045
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 (0-2 yrs) average $22.41/hour, while the most experienced (6-10 yrs) charge around $26.46/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) | $24.06 |
|---|---|
| 2 kids | ~$25.06 |
| 3+ kids | ~$26.06+ |
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 | $24.63/hr | See full-time rates → |
| Live-in | Set by family | $24.41/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 3% more than the California average of $23/hour and 22% 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 | -3% |
| 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 $19.08/hour in Fresno to $28.42/hour in San Francisco.
Below: how each compares to the San Diego, CA average of $24.06/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 | $28.42 | +18% | |
| 2 | San Jose | $26.33 | +9% | |
| 3 | Oakland | $25.62 | +6% | |
| 4 | Los Angeles | $25.19 | +5% | |
| 5 | San Diego | $24.06 | — | |
| 6 | Sacramento | $21.49 | -11% | |
| 7 | Stockton | $19.74 | -18% | |
| 8 | Bakersfield | $19.25 | -20% | |
| 9 | Fresno | $19.08 | -21% |
● Most expensive nearby: San Francisco ($28.42)● Least expensive nearby: Fresno ($19.08)
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
313 active listings in San Diego
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 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 Taylor
Nanny Taylor
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
9 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi, I'm Taylor! I've been caring for children for the past 9 years, working with everyone from curious toddlers to independent pre-teens, and I love every stage in between. I'm CPR and First Aid certified, and for the last year I've also worked as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), which has deepened my understanding of how each child learns, communicates, and grows best.
At the heart of everything I do is a simple goal: to be an adult that both children and parents feel they can truly trust and rely on. I show up consistently, listen closely, and treat every family's routines and values with care.
One of my favorite things to do with kids is arts and crafts! Whether we're painting, building, or gluing together our latest masterpiece, I love watching creativity come to life. It's also a wonderful way to support a child's cognitive development and fine motor skills, all while having fun together.
I'm so excited to bring my experience, patience, and heart to your family.
At the heart of everything I do is a simple goal: to be an adult that both children and parents feel they can truly trust and rely on. I show up consistently, listen closely, and treat every family's routines and values with care.
One of my favorite things to do with kids is arts and crafts! Whether we're painting, building, or gluing together our latest masterpiece, I love watching creativity come to life. It's also a wonderful way to support a child's cognitive development and fine motor skills, all while having fun together.
I'm so excited to bring my experience, patience, and heart to your family.
Have experience working with
Special Needs
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
Nanny Mj
Nanny Mj
San Diego, CA
$25/hr
Full-time
1 year experience
A little bit about me
- most experienced with children 1mo-5yrs
- knowledgeable in children's emotional, mental, and physical development
-First-Aid and CPR trained
- knowledgeable in children's emotional, mental, and physical development
-First-Aid and CPR trained
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Tiana
Nanny Tiana
San Diego, CA
$25 - $35/hr
Full-time
9 years experience
A little bit about me
Hi families! I’m excited to introduce myself and share a bit about who I am and my experience with childcare.
My hobbies include painting, working out outdoors, spending time with friends, decorating, and cooking and baking.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have over 9 years of experience working with infants and elementary-aged children. Throughout my career, I’ve supported students in developing social-emotional learning skills as well as academic skills in math, reading, and science. I’ve also had the opportunity to teach outdoor education, which I absolutely love.
My teaching approach is very hands-on, as I’ve found that children learn best when they are actively engaged—especially since it’s easy for them to get distracted. I’m comfortable managing classrooms of up to 20 children, but nannying has always felt like a true calling to me because it allows for a more intentional, and personalized approach to caregiving.
My hobbies include painting, working out outdoors, spending time with friends, decorating, and cooking and baking.
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education and have over 9 years of experience working with infants and elementary-aged children. Throughout my career, I’ve supported students in developing social-emotional learning skills as well as academic skills in math, reading, and science. I’ve also had the opportunity to teach outdoor education, which I absolutely love.
My teaching approach is very hands-on, as I’ve found that children learn best when they are actively engaged—especially since it’s easy for them to get distracted. I’m comfortable managing classrooms of up to 20 children, but nannying has always felt like a true calling to me because it allows for a more intentional, and personalized approach to caregiving.
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Mustafa
Nanny Mustafa
San Diego, CA
$17 - $18/hr
Full-time
Part-time
< 1 year experience
A little bit about me
My name is Mustafa. I am 16 years old. I am from Afghanistan. I am in ninth grade. I have been babysitting for 11 months. I take care of children. I love to play with kids, and I have a 7-year-old brother. I like to play with my brother, just like how I play with babysitters.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certification
First Aid
Nanny Lizbeth
Nanny Lizbeth
San Diego, CA
$21 - $25/hr
Full-time
Part-time
3 years experience
A little bit about me
Hello, my name is Lizbeth. I am 21 years old, and I have experience working with children ranging from ages 5-12, grades tk-6 for 3 years. I am bls/cpr/first aid certified. I enjoy working with children and will be study child development in college to pursue a career in Child Development Specialist. I have full open availability and willing to work weekends if necessary.
Have experience working with
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid