How Much Does a Nanny Cost in the UK? A Parent’s Guide to 2025 Rates
How Much Does a Nanny Cost in the UK? A Parent’s Guide to 2025 Rates
If you’re thinking about hiring a nanny, one of the first questions you’re bound to ask is: how much does a nanny cost?
And quite rightly so. Whether you're planning childcare for your newborn, help after school, or someone to support your family full-time, understanding the costs involved is absolutely essential.
At Hummingbird Home Staff, we know that hiring a nanny isn’t just a financial decision - it’s a deeply personal one.
You're not just looking for someone to keep the kids entertained; you're choosing someone who will become part of the family, a partner in parenting, and quite possibly the only adult in the house who knows where everything is.
So, let’s dive into what you need to know about nanny costs in 2025.
Why Nanny Costs Matter
When it comes to childcare, quality matters. But quality also comes with a cost - and knowing what to expect in terms of salary, hours, and other expenses can help you budget wisely and avoid surprises.
More importantly, it helps you hire someone who is qualified, experienced, and fairly compensated - which is a win for your family and your nanny.
Plus, with the current cost of living and an increasing demand for flexible, in-home childcare, it's more important than ever to plan properly.
After all, investing in a good nanny is investing in your children’s wellbeing - and your own peace of mind!
Why Hiring a Nanny is Worth Every Penny
Hiring a nanny is one of the most beneficial childcare options for you and your family. Here’s why:
- Personalised care: Unlike nurseries or group care, a nanny focuses solely on your children and their individual needs.
- Convenience: No early-morning rush to drop off, no midday panic when someone’s off sick.
- Flexibility: Schedules can be tailored to your family - early starts, late finishes, school runs, and everything in between.
- Support at home: Many nannies also help with cooking, tidying, laundry, and keeping the kids' rooms from looking like a LEGO explosion.
With a great nanny, you gain more than childcare - you gain headspace, time, and the peace of knowing your little ones are safe, happy, and loved.
2025 Nanny Costs in the UK – What to Expect
So, how much does a nanny cost? The answer depends on several factors: location, hours, live-in vs live-out, and whether you need extra duties like housekeeping or overnight care. Below is a handy overview to guide you:
1. Live-Out Nanny
- Average hourly rate: £13–£17 per hour (gross)
- Weekly rate (full-time): £550–£750+ depending on hours and location
This is the most common type of nanny and ideal if you want someone to come in daily and leave at the end of the day. Expect to pay more in London and the South East.
2. Live-In Nanny
- Weekly salary (net): £400–£650
- Plus accommodation and meals
Live-in nannies are often paid slightly less because they receive room and board. However, remember to factor in the cost of providing a private space and amenities. A live-in nanny can be a fantastic option for parents who work long hours or travel frequently.
3. Nanny Housekeeper
- Hourly rate: £14–£20+
- Weekly salary: £600–£850+
A hybrid role where your nanny also helps run the household - think tidying, laundry, cooking, or even managing your Amazon deliveries. Nanny housekeepers are a lifesaver for busy families, but the added responsibilities mean the salary reflects the multitasking magic.
4. After-School Nanny
- Hourly rate: £15–£20+
- Part-time weekly rate: £200–£350
Perfect if you just need help during the school run and after-school hours. Rates are higher per hour due to the shorter shift, and you’ll want someone experienced enough to juggle homework, snacks, and squabbles over screen time.
5. Night Nanny / Maternity Nurse
- Overnight rate: £150–£250 per night
- 24-hour care: £250–£350 per day
If you’ve got a newborn (or simply value your sleep), night nannies are worth their weight in gold. They handle night feeds, settle your baby, and support new parents through the often-challenging early weeks.
Other Costs to Keep in Mind
It’s super important to remember that hiring a nanny means you’re also an employer. This comes with a few extra responsibilities, such as:
- Tax and National Insurance: You’ll need to register as an employer and handle PAYE.
- Pension contributions: Required for eligible nannies.
- Holiday pay: Your nanny is entitled to paid annual leave (usually 28 days including bank holidays).
- Employer’s Liability Insurance: A legal requirement in the UK.
- Payroll services: Many families use a payroll provider for simplicity—expect to pay around £150–£300 per year.
If this sounds like a lot, don’t worry. At Hummingbird, we help our clients navigate all these legal and financial details with minimal stress and maximum support.
So, How Do You Find the Right Nanny for Your Needs?
Simple - ask the experts. At Hummingbird Home Staff, we’ve spent over 35 years helping families across the UK find nannies who don’t just tick boxes but genuinely fit in.
We take the time to get to know you, understand your family dynamics, and only introduce you to candidates who are fully vetted, highly experienced, and ready to make your life easier.
We’ll help you find full-time or part-time nannies, live-in or live-out roles, nanny housekeepers and PAs, night nannies, and after-school and holiday nannies.
From the initial chat to interviews, contracts, and ongoing support - we’re with you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Hiring a nanny is one of the most personal and impactful decisions you’ll make for your family. And yes, there’s a cost involved.
But when you find the right person - the one who loves your children like their own, who keeps the household ticking over, and who gives you the gift of calm amid chaos - it’s worth every penny.
If you’re wondering how much does a nanny cost because you’re ready to take the next step, let Hummingbird Home Staff be your guide. Contact us today and we’ll help you find a nanny who truly feels like part of the family.
