What’s the Going Rate for a Full-Time Nanny in San Francisco (2025)

Finding the right childcare in San Francisco can feel like a full-time job. Between demanding careers, unpredictable schedules, and the constant juggle of family life, most parents just want clear, honest guidance they can trust. At Premier Nanny Source, we’ve spent decades helping families navigate this process and understand what truly sets great care and fair pay apart.

In 2025, most professional nannies in San Francisco earn between $40 and $45+ per hour, with highly experienced or specialized caregivers earning more depending on schedule, responsibilities, and location.

What Impacts Nanny Pay in San Francisco

Experience and Education
Nannies with deep experience, early childhood education units, or newborn care training typically command higher rates. Those with backgrounds in teaching, bilingual skills, or long-term relationships with Bay Area families are especially in demand.

Number of Children and Responsibilities
Caring for multiple children, infants, or taking on household support such as meal prep, errands, or family assistance affects compensation. Every family’s needs are unique, and pay should reflect the full scope of the role.

Schedule and Flexibility
Split shifts, early mornings, evenings, or travel days often increase the hourly rate. Families who need flexibility usually pay a premium to ensure reliability and long-term consistency.

Location and Commute
San Francisco’s neighborhoods vary widely in commute time and accessibility. Nannies who face parking challenges, tolls, or longer routes, especially in areas with limited public transit, may expect slightly higher pay.

Consistency and Fit
The best long-term matches aren’t just about the hourly rate. They’re about mutual respect and communication. Offering guaranteed hours and a clear, professional relationship goes a long way toward retaining exceptional caregivers.

Average Pay Ranges (2025 Guide)

Early-career (fewer than 3 years): $35–$40 per hour
Experienced (4–7 years): $40–$45 per hour
Highly experienced or specialized (family assistant, bilingual, travel, etc.): $45–$50+ per hour

Keep in mind these are general averages. Roles that include household management, split shifts, or discretion for high-profile families often fall on the higher end, sometimes exceeding $50 per hour for truly exceptional candidates.

Beyond the Hourly Rate

Many families also offer:

• Guaranteed hours (40–45 per week)

• Paid vacation and holidays

• Health stipends or contributions

• 401(k) or retirement matching

• Mileage reimbursement or Clipper card

• Annual raises or performance bonuses

These benefits show your nanny that you view them as a professional partner in your family’s success. Small gestures like these make a lasting difference in reliability, morale, and long-term commitment.

A Note from Premier Nanny Source

With over 25 years in childcare, we’ve seen firsthand what creates lasting, trusted relationships between families and caregivers. Fair pay is a big part of that equation, but so is respect, communication, and partnership.

At Premier Nanny Source, we help San Francisco families make informed, confident decisions about childcare while supporting the professional nannies who make that possible.

If you’re exploring childcare options or preparing to hire, our team would love to help you find an experienced, trusted nanny who feels like part of your family.

Let’s build your modern village. Reach out anytime.