Rate Benchmark: $16 - $28 / hr
Child Care Costs Breakdown
Caregiver compensation should be fair, lawful, and aligned with market realities. Below is an evidence-based overview of what influences rates.
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Primary Factors Influencing Rates
- •Number and ages of children (infants command higher rates)
- •Caregiver certifications (infant CPR, First Aid, early childhood education degrees)
- •Transportation duties and use of personal vehicle
- •Geographic cost of living and local wage ordinances
Legal Wage & Overtime Rules
Domestic workers who work more than 40 hours in a seven-day workweek are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular rate under federal FLSA regulations.
Frequently Asked Pricing Questions
Why do infant rates cost more?
Infants require continuous one-on-one attention, rigorous safe sleep adherence, and specialized feeding protocols.
Are taxes included in the hourly rate?
No. The agreed hourly rate is usually gross pay. Families hiring household employees must withhold and pay applicable FICA and state unemployment taxes.