How much should I pay for child care in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The national typical hourly rate in 2024 is $22.50 per hour for nannies and $21.50 for babysitters. Rates can vary based on the child care provider's experience, certifications, employment status, and travel expenses. When calculating the cost of child care, you should also account for the number of children they'll care for and additional responsibilities like household tasks or homework help. Learn more about how to set competitive in-home child care rates for attracting the best babysitters and nannies.

How do I find child care for my kids in {{city}}, {{state}}?

The best way to find child care near you is to post a job detailing your needs on Sittercity, which will be shared with our community of available babysitters and nannies. We'll notify you when child care providers apply to your job, and from there you can proceed with interviews, background checks, and reference checks so you can find the perfect fit for your family.

What kind of child care providers can I find in {{city}}, {{state}}?

You can find experienced and passionate child care providers near you to provide the best care for your child, either in-home or virtually. Child care providers can help families with managing strict schedules, transportation to activities, homework help, last-minute coverage, date nights, and more. Whether you're looking for full-time, part-time, live-in, or temporary care, you can count on Sittercity for finding passionate and experienced child care providers.

Find experienced child care providers in Iowa City, IA

Q: How do families hire trustworthy child care providers in {{city}}, {{state}}?

Families find trustworthy child care providers on Sittercity who are passionate about providing safe and enriching care for their children. Many providers report they are First Aid and CPR certified to provide the best care for your family. Babysitters and nannies have the option to complete regular background checks, and you can easily request a recent background check if they don’t have one or it is not recent. Families can also request to see professional references! Our dedicated team also champions safety across our platform every day. Child care providers go through an identity verification process Berbix when registering an account. Some additional safety measures include Family Watchdog screening, babysitter and nanny reviews, and secure messaging.

Q: What’s the difference between a nanny and a babysitter?

Nannies and babysitters share the same primary responsibility of providing safe and enriching care for your child, but there are a few differences between them. Nannies are more commonly associated with regular work, whether full or part-time, offering daily or consistent care to a particular family. There are also several different types of nannies, including au pairs, house managers, doulas, live-in, and overnight nannies. Babysitters, on the other hand, are typically hired for irregular or occasional work, either full or part-time. If you’re looking for last-minute care for date night, or the occasional few hours after school, a babysitter is a great best option. Identifying the type and frequency of child care you’ll need is the best way to decide whether a babysitter or nanny is a better fit for your family.

Q: How does a child care provider interact with my child?

Child care providers on Sittercity love providing enriching experiences for your children, and sharing their passions with them. They're happy to participate in outdoor activities like sports, or indoor activities like music, baking, tutoring help, and art. Wherever your child's interests lie, child care providers on Sittercity can engage them in a nurturing way.

Last-minute, school and tutoring, date nights—find the right babysitters for you.

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Find your child care in Iowa City, IA

Aruna M.

10 years paid experience
3 miles

$30–50/hr

I have been babysitting for over 20 years and have watched children ages 3 weeks to 12 years old. I have worked in three different day cares, all in the infant room. I have also babysat for over 250 families. I am certified in CPR, First Aid, and AED, renewed February 2022. I have used this on one occasion to save a life. I have been vaccinated for covid in March and April 2021, and received a covid booster in November 2021. Please rest assured I will get a second covid booster as soon as available! I have also had a flu shot in September 2021, and a tdap in February 2022. I have come to believe that the core of child care is truly loving kids and helping them become the best versions of themselves. I learn something new from each child I have the privilege of babysitting, and most of all, I love getting the opportunity to nurture kids when they are young! I'm also actively involved in the Second City Acting program. I absolutely love engaging children in creative role-play! Finally, I also teach in the Northwestern Program for Gifted Students. I love making learning fun, and it is my dream to open an empowerment institute for kids one day. Please note I do not have after school availability at this time.

$30–50/hr

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Allison W.

3 years paid experience
10 miles

$12–20/hr

Hello! My name is Allison and I am available for weeknights and weekend babysitting. I live in Solon. I work as a counselor during the day. I have worked as a nanny and preschool teacher over the years. I have CPR certification, my own transportation, and all three covid shots. I love kids and am okay with pets too!

$12–20/hr

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Isabelle M.

2 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$18–25/hr

I love being with kids! I am patient and love to play games and have a good laugh. I grew up being a ballerina which taught me a lot of leadership. I teach ballet with young kids and adults! It is my passion so I love the experience and being social. I have more experience in babysitting with newborns and toddlers. I am the oldest sibling so I have always grown up being with younger ones with my family. I have a car and am able to drive to any activities or go on errands.

$18–25/hr

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Yadira B.

10 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$18–25/hr

Hello! My name is Yadira and I am available to babysit/nanny for date nights, occasional sitter or a one time sitter.I have experience working with infants, toddlers and elementary children for about 10 years! I am comfortable with pets and have my own transportation. I am trilingual (Spanish, English, and American Sign Language). I am CPR certified, Child Mandatory Reporter, and fully vaccinated for COVID-19 along with the booster. I can do overnight sitting! Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns I can address.

$18–25/hr

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Maria H.

7 years paid experience
1 mile

$20–30/hr

Hi! I’m Maria, a second year student at the University of Iowa. I absolutely love babysitting and getting to hang with kids! I have been babysitting for 7+ years and have worked as a counselor and director of a summer camp where I have gotten so many skills and experiences working with kids of all ages.

$20–30/hr

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Katie P.

11 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$11–200/hr

Hello my name is Katie Paul I’ve lived in Iowa city my whole life. I’ve had 11 yrs experience working with children from newborn to high school. I enjoy working with children. I’m currently working on my CDA.

$11–200/hr

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Lillie P.

8 years paid experience
3 miles

$16–30/hr

Hi! I’m Lillie and I’ve been babysitting for about 8 years. I love working with kids and always make sure they’re safe, happy, and cared for. I’m CPR certified and work in a hospital, so safety and responsibility are very important to me. I’m reliable, patient, and would love to help care for your family!

$16–30/hr

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Fern S.

4 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$14–25/hr

Hello, I’m Fern Stubbs, I’m looking for a new nanny family for the start of September (Sadly my current nanny job is ending end of August due to starting school and no longer needing care). I have 4 years experience in a childcare facility, involving children aging from 6 weeks to 10 years of age. I have CPR, First Aid, Infancy and Childcare Precautions, and Safe Sleep training. I have also cared for children with Autism, Asthma, Seizures and Behavioral challenges. I have watched as many as 5 kids at once, along with twins (aging at 5 months old). I hope to build a relationship and teach or inspire a young mind!

$14–25/hr

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Olivia D.

5 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$17–25/hr

I am a nursing student who is eager to work with children of all ages! I am energetic and have been a nanny for the past two summers for 3 children. I love doing arts and crafts, reading, and sports. I have over 5 years of experience and a healthcare background.

$17–25/hr

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Olivia K.

6 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$10–29/hr

Hello to all families. My name is Olivia. I am a hardworking job seeker, who is very passionate about my love for children and helping families. I have younger siblings who are twins, an older brother, and dog who! grew up with. Throughout high school I was a nanny for multiple families, and even began basic babysitting when I was just 14 years old. When I began my freshman year at the university of lowa, I worked at a daycare/ preschool as an assistant teacher. I worked with kids ranging from 4 months old - 6/7 years old! I am responsible, and driven to put my best foot forward in all aspects of my life :). Please don't hesitate to reach out! I would love a full time job starting ASAP, but very flexible and willing to work with different families schedules and needs.