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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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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Irene A.

6 years paid experience
1 mile

$25–50/hr

Hi! I'm Irene, a Spanish international student living in Iowa City. I've always loved children. Playing with them, laughing, and having fun. I feel like I'm one of them. However, I also have my own personality and know how to be serious when the situation calls for it. In addition, I have studied music since I was 3 years old, which I believe has always given me a lot of sensitivity and passion for everything I do. I will be delighted to take care of your children as if they were my own, teach them music and Spanish, and give them lots of love.

$25–50/hr

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Kailey T.

6 years paid experience
1 mile

$20–30/hr

Hi families! My name is Kailey, and I’m currently looking for a summer nanny position beginning Monday, May 12th. I’ve been a trusted babysitter and nanny for the past 6 years, working with children of all ages—from infants to pre-teens. I’m passionate about creating a fun, safe, and engaging environment. I love staying active with the kids—think park adventures, crafts, games, reading, and more—and I strongly believe in limiting screen time in favor of real-world play and learning. References available upon request. Let me know if you’d like to connect!

$20–30/hr

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Reagan R.

8 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$20–22/hr

I love being a sitter because I enjoy creating a safe, fun, and positive environment while building trust with families. I have experience supervising activities, preparing meals, and helping with routines. I’m reliable, patient, and have strong communication and problem-solving skills, always prioritizing safety and comfort.

$20–22/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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Sarah B.

3 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$15–20/hr

I am great when it comes to kids. I have a huge family that is constantly having kids so I’m usually the one to babysit the others. I can cook,clean,change etc. Overall, I’d be honored to babysit any of your kids, I love them!

$15–20/hr

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Faith W.

5 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$22–26/hr

I am writing to express my interest in the nanny position. With several years of hands-on experience working with children of various ages, I am confident in my ability to provide a safe, nurturing, and engaging environment for your family. I am CPR and First Aid certified and prioritize safety at all times. I am also highly organized, dependable, and comfortable assisting with daily tasks such as meal preparation, light housekeeping, and maintaining schedules. My goal is always to support both the children and the family by creating a stable and caring environment. I would love the opportunity to bring my experience, patience, and enthusiasm to your family. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to speaking with you. Sincerely, Faith

$22–26/hr

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Sydney J.

3 years paid experience
7 miles

$15–18/hr

Hello! My name is Sydney Johnston, I am 22. I have experience babysitting for 2-3 kids. I have also worked at a child care center in North Liberty for a year. I am going to college but being placed on a waitlist and looking for babysitting jobs.

$15–18/hr

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Dianessa M.

6 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$19–22/hr

Hey!! My name is Dianessa 😊 I’m CPR & First Aid certified and have experience with diaper changes, sleep routines/strategies, and keeping little ones safe, happy, and engaged. I’m reliable, patient, and love creating fun, nurturing environments for kids to learn and grow. I also have my own dependable transportation and a flexible schedule. Feel free to reach out if you’d like to chat or need more information! 🤗