Reviewed by the Nanny Lane team · Last updated
How much does a nanny cost in Chicago, IL in 2026?
In Chicago, IL, the average nanny earns about $21.15 per hour. For a typical 40-hour week, that works out to roughly $846/week or $3,666/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$21.15/hr · Chicago average
These numbers come from 910 live nanny listings in Chicago on Nanny Lane. We update this page whenever the data moves.
- Weekly
(40 hrs) - $846
- Monthly
- $3,666
- Annual
- $43,992
Find 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 nannys command higher rates. Entry-level (0-2 yrs) average $19.98/hour, while the most experienced (6-10 yrs) charge around $24.01/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) | $21.15 |
|---|---|
| 2 kids | ~$22.15 |
| 3+ kids | ~$23.15+ |
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 nanny rates
| Arrangement | Typical hours | Average rate | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-time | 35–50 hrs/week | $22.33/hr | See full-time rates → |
| Part-time | 10–25 hrs/week | $20.91/hr | See part-time rates → |
| Live-in | Set by family | $20.62/hr | See live-in rates → |
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 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 nanny.
How do Chicago nanny rates compare to state and national averages?
Chicago runs above the U.S. average for nanny rates, in line with most major metros.
Hiring nannies in Chicago, IL typically costs about 7% more than the Illinois average of $20/hour and 11% more than the United States average of $19/hour.
| Area | Average hourly rate | vs. Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago, IL | $21/hr | — |
| Illinois | $20/hr | -7% |
| United States | $19/hr | -10% |
Where Chicago, IL fits among nearby cities
10 nearby cities have enough nanny data to compare, with rates ranging from $17.17/hour in Peoria to $21.28/hour in Schaumburg.
Below: how each compares to the Chicago, IL average of $21.15/hour — Chicago, IL is highlighted at its true rank.
Nearby cities ranked by nanny rate
| # | City | $/hr | vs. Chicago, IL | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Schaumburg | $21.28 | +1% | |
| 2 | Chicago | $21.15 | — | |
| 3 | Naperville | $20.48 | -3% | |
| 4 | Aurora | $19.69 | -7% | |
| 5 | Elgin | $19.13 | -10% | |
| 6 | Plainfield | $18.09 | -14% | |
| 7 | Springfield | $17.95 | -15% | |
| 8 | Rockford | $17.78 | -16% | |
| 9 | Champaign | $17.26 | -18% | |
| 10 | Peoria | $17.17 | -19% |
● Most expensive nearby: Schaumburg ($21.28)● Least expensive nearby: Peoria ($17.17)
Tips to find a great nanny without overpaying
- Be flexible on experience. Some of the best nannies on the platform have 3–5 years on the job and charge meaningfully less than experienced 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 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 nanny in Chicago, IL
Nanny Lane is a marketplace built specifically for connecting families with nannies — no recruiters in the middle. Most families work through it like this:
- 01
Browse 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 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 nanny fits with your family in real time.
- 04
Hire your nanny
If you'd rather not handle taxes and payroll yourself, our payroll team can take care of it.
Available nannies in Chicago, IL
910 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 Mackenzie
Nanny Mackenzie
Chicago, IL
$22 - $25/hr
Part-time
1 year experience
A little bit about me
My name is Mackenzie and I am a current physical therapy student looking for a part time nanny job. I have experience nannying in college for 3 kids aged 5mo-5years. I live in Lincoln park but am flexible with location.
Have experience working with
Infants
Special Needs
Certifications
CPR
First Aid
Nanny Kristy
Nanny Kristy
Chicago, IL
$22/hr
Part-time
1 year experience
A little bit about me
I'm a rising senior at Loyola getting my bachelors in Music/Business Administration.
I like spending my time outside when I can, going on walks, and being with friends.
I like spending my time outside when I can, going on walks, and being with friends.
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 Amelia
Nanny Amelia
Chicago, IL
$18 - $25/hr
Part-time
1 year experience
A little bit about me
Hello, my name is Amelia, I'm 14 and I do taekwondo. I really like kids, and ever since i was 10 my mom put me in summer camps and I got along with a lot of small kids, and then I got a job where I watched over kids and took care of them. So, I will do my best to give your kids a great time and provide you great time, so you won't have to worry.
Have experience working with
Special Needs
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