# What is the average cost of hiring an au pair in 2023?

Olivia Watson · August 4, 2026

> In 2023, the average annual cost of hiring an au pair in the United States is between $16,900 and $25,000. This variation accounts for several factors...

In 2023, the average annual cost of hiring an au pair in the United States is between $16,900 and $25,000.

This variation accounts for several factors, including location and specific agency fees.

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Host families are required to provide a minimum weekly stipend for au pairs, with rates starting from $146 to $250 depending on their experience and the region of the US

Agency fees for matching an au pair with a host family typically range from $8,500 to $10,500 per year.

These fees cover costs associated with the application process and ongoing support services.

Au pairs are generally expected to work up to 45 hours a week, which includes responsibilities typically related to childcare, while also having some time allotted for errands and light household duties.

The US Department of State sets specific guidelines for the au pair program, ensuring that both host families and au pairs adhere to certain standards, including stipends and work hours.

Travel costs incurred by the au pair for their journey to the host family's country are typically borne by the au pair themselves, emphasizing the necessity for financial planning on their part.

Many agencies offer cultural and educational components, requiring au pairs to complete a minimum of six credit hours in a course of their choice, typically at a local institution, further increasing costs.

The cost of hiring an au pair can be significantly more economical than employing a full-time nanny, especially in major urban areas where nanny wages have risen sharply in recent years.

The au pair program is structured so that au pairs live with their host families, which tends to reduce additional living expenses that a traditional nanny might incur.

The average age of an au pair is typically between 18 and 26 years, and they often come from various countries with diverse cultural backgrounds, enriching the host family's experience.

Due to the fluctuations in exchange rates, families hiring an au pair from another country may find that their overall costs vary, affecting the total expense when converted to US dollars.

In some regions, host families may qualify for specific tax credits related to childcare expenses, depending on their income levels and specific state laws.

Costs can further fluctuate based on geographical demand; areas with higher populations and greater demand for childcare may have increased agency fees.

Host families are responsible for providing accommodation and meals for the au pair, which can significantly impact household food and utility expenses.

Prior experience or qualifications, such as being CPR certified or holding childcare degrees, can influence the stipend amount negotiated with an au pair.

The au pair program often allows for extended stays, and fees may increase if families choose to extend the program for more than a year.

The au pair's home country can affect costs as well; for instance, European au pairs might demand higher fees than those from South America, influenced by the cost of living in their home countries.

Different types of au pair programs (like EduCare) have been structured specifically to cater to families seeking part-time help with children who are school-aged, thus diversifying costs and services offered.

The shift in family dynamics and increasing work-from-home trends post-pandemic might lead to changes in how families perceive the value of hiring an au pair, potentially affecting average costs in the future.

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