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 Columbia, MO

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 Columbia, MO

Hannah W.

6 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$15–22/hr

Hi Everyone! I am originally from Columbia, Mo! My name is Hannah W, I’m getting my degree in psychology and my minor is in child and family development! I want to become a therapist! I go to Missouri State University! I graduate in summer of 2025! I have a lot of experience with kids of all ages and background! I worked at a preschool and I have helped multiple families out! I have done overnight stays and love to help! I currently babysit part time and work at a preschool! 😊

$15–22/hr

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Kristin B.

0 years paid experience
3 miles

$15–20/hr

Home for the next couple of weeks from college and love kids and working with them. I have experience with special needs child work. I know how to cook and can clean. I enjoy spending time with kids and helping them with activities they enjoy. I also have experience with working with animals and understand feeding routines with them.

$15–20/hr

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Andi J.

50 years paid experience
< 1 mile

$20–25/hr

I am a retired school teacher of 38 years from Kansas City Public School District. I love working and teaching children of all ages, but am looking to stay out of the classroom. I have 3 grown sons of which 2 are ide Identical twins.

$20–25/hr

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Rosie C.

3 years paid experience
3 miles

$17–23/hr

Hi! I'm Rosie! I'm a Sophomore at the University of Missouri- Columbia! I've been a babysitter for three years, but I've also worked with preschool-age children in tutoring. I am a former lifeguard, so I have CPR and First Aid Certification! I mainly just enjoy spending time with kids and going on fun outings to the park or anything outside!

$17–23/hr

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Abigail G.

3 years paid experience
2 miles

$15–20/hr

I am currently a junior at Saint Louis University studying geology. While I am not from the St. Louis area, I have grown to love this city (especially the free museums)! With several years of babysitting experience, I offer an energetic and trustworthy experience for your children!

$15–20/hr

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Deborah S.

5 years paid experience
2 miles

$18–25/hr

Hello! I am Deborah Simon. I have experience with all ages of children and even more experience with people who have physical and developmental disabilities. I am new to Missouri but I am excited by the idea of meeting new people. I am a Christian with a home school education from kindergarten through high school. I have completed an associates degree in Criminal Justice and almost have a bachelor's. Thank you for checking out my profile, have a wonderful day!

$18–25/hr

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Lisa V.

20 years paid experience
7 miles

$35–45/hr

I have more than 20 years professional experience taking care of children I am punctual, hard working, reliable, cheerful, honest. Can follow instructions and I am very positive.

$35–45/hr

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Michelle M.

15 years paid experience
5 miles

$15–20/hr

With over a decade of dedicated service in preschools and valuable experience volunteering in youth programs, I've also held professional roles within school environments. My approach to discipline revolves around striking a healthy balance between firmness and fun, ensuring a nurturing environment where children thrive. I am deeply committed to engaging with children on their level, fostering emotional well-being, and providing a safe haven for their growth and development."

$15–20/hr

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Abbie W.

4 years paid experience
3 miles

$18–35/hr

Hi! I’m Abbie, a pre-nursing student at the University of Missouri with over 4 years of paid babysitting experience. I started babysitting in high school, including several years as an after-school sitter for the same family. I’ve also worked at a sleep-away camp for the past two summers, caring for children ages 7–13, where I built strong skills in behavior management and helping kids calm down when upset. I love babysitting because I enjoy seeing children grow and gain confidence. I’m lifeguard and CPR certified, dependable, and safety-focused. I’d love to support your family with reliable, caring childcare!

$18–35/hr

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Teniya L.

5 years paid experience
3 miles

$25–30/hr

I love watching kids grow and learn new things! I have experience from working in daycares, tutoring preschoolers online and in person, and I am now currently a Registered Behavior Technician. I am known for my patience, clear communication, creativity, and compassion. I focus on creating a safe engaging environment so every child can feel comfortable and have fun.