Babysitter Pay & Tipping: What’s Fair in 2025?

When it comes to hiring a babysitter, one of the biggest unknowns for parents is simple: what should I pay? And even more confusing—should I tip? 

The world of babysitter pay has changed a lot in recent years, especially with inflation, varying regional rates, and the rise of professional sitter services like SmartSitter.

We’re here to break it all down: what’s fair, what’s appreciated, and what’s trending when it comes to babysitter pay in 2025.

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What's the Average Babysitter Pay in 2025?

Babysitter pay continues to rise slightly year over year. As of mid-2025, the national average hourly rate for a babysitter is $20–$25/hour for one child, with rates increasing depending on location, number of children, and any special requirements (like bedtime routines, driving, or infants).

According to UrbanSitter's latest nanny and sitter rate guide, babysitting rates vary based on experience and geography, echoing the trends we see within SmartSitter.

Regional Snapshot (based on SmartSitter data):

• St. Louis: $18–$22/hr

• Jacksonville: $17–$21/hr

• Atlanta: $20–$25/hr

Additional children usually add $2–$5/hour per child.

Smart Tip: Hiring through a trusted service like SmartSitter ensures you’re getting background-checked, vetted, and fairly compensated caregivers who know their worth and value yours.

Do You Tip Babysitters in 2025?

Yes—and no. Tipping is optional, but always appreciated. Think of it like dining out: not required, but a thoughtful show of appreciation for exceptional service.

For context, Mother.ly recently covered a viral story of a sitter offered extra cash for cleaning—which sparked a wider conversation about fairness and tipping norms.

When You Should Consider Tipping:

• Late-night or last-minute bookings

• A sitter going "above and beyond"

• Overnights or long shifts

• If your kids had a hard night and the sitter handled it like a champ

Typical tip amounts range from $5 to $20+, depending on the situation and length of the job.

🌟 Pro "Tip": A sincere thank-you text and a consistent rate can matter just as much as a cash tip. Thoughtful gestures go far.

How to Determine a Fair Babysitter Rate

Here are a few factors to consider when setting your babysitter's hourly rate:

1. Number of children: More kids = more work.

2. Age and needs: Babies or kids with special needs often require more attention.

3. Responsibilities: Will the sitter be driving? Handling dinner? Helping with homework?

4. Experience: A college student with 5+ years of sitting may expect a higher rate.

5. Credentials: CPR-certified? Early childhood major? That expertise counts.

For updated guidance on hiring sitters and more insight on fair compensation, see The Bump: How to Find a Great Babysitter (and What to Pay). It includes must-ask interview questions like how they handle newborn care, CPR or first-aid training, and emergency scenarios.

What Else Can I Do to Show Appreciation For My Sitter?

Fair pay is essential—but showing appreciation goes beyond the paycheck:

• Leave snacks or a meal

• Offer to drive them home

• Share positive feedback or testimonials

• Request them again (nothing says "thank you" like a rebook!)

If you're working with a family member as a babysitter, Nationwide Children’s Hospital offers great guidance on keeping expectations realistic and respectful. See their Top 12 Tips to Give Relatives Babysitting for the First Time for ideas on communicating boundaries, routines, and mutual respect.

babysitter pay and tipping

TL;DR: Babysitter Pay & Tipping in 2025

• Average rate: $20–25/hr (1 child)

• Add $2–5/hr per extra child

• Tipping is optional but appreciated

• Fair pay + thoughtful thanks = long-term sitter loyalty

Need a sitter you can trust and feel good about paying fairly? Book one of our fully vetted SmartSitters today in St. Louis, Jacksonville, or Atlanta.

👉 Book your SmartSitter now