Calculate the total annual cost of hosting an au pair including agency fees, weekly stipend, room and board, and education allowance.
An au pair is a young person from another country who lives with your family and provides childcare in exchange for a stipend, room and board, and educational opportunities. The program is regulated by the U.S. Department of State and offers a unique cultural exchange experience alongside affordable childcare.
The total cost of hosting an au pair typically ranges from $24,000 to $31,000 per year, making it one of the most cost-effective options for families with multiple children. Unlike nannies or daycare, the per-child cost doesn't increase — an au pair can care for up to the host family's children for the same price.
This calculator breaks down every component of au pair costs: agency placement fees, the required weekly stipend, room and board expenses, the education allowance, and incidental costs. Compare the total against nanny and daycare options to see if an au pair is right for your family.
Au pair programs offer unique value for families with two or more children because the cost remains essentially the same regardless of the number of kids. This calculator helps you see the full annual cost and compare it to other childcare options. Understanding every expense component — from agency fees to food costs — ensures there are no financial surprises during the hosting year.
Annual Cost = Agency Fee + (Weekly Stipend × 52) + (Monthly Room & Board × 12) + Education Allowance + Additional Costs Monthly Cost = Annual Cost / 12
Result: $27,679/year
With a $9,000 agency fee, the minimum $195.75 weekly stipend ($10,179/year), $400/month in room and board ($4,800), $500 education allowance, and $2,000 in additional costs (car insurance, phone), the total annual cost is approximately $27,679 — about $2,307/month.
The U.S. au pair program is governed by the Department of State, which sets minimum standards for compensation, working hours, and living conditions. Host families must provide a private room, meals, and access to a vehicle for childcare duties. The au pair receives a weekly stipend, education allowance, and the cultural experience of living in America.
The biggest financial advantage of an au pair is flat pricing. Whether you have one child or four, the cost stays roughly the same. For a family with two children in daycare at $1,500 each ($36,000/year), switching to an au pair at $27,000 saves $9,000 annually. Families with three children save even more.
Beyond childcare, au pairs bring cultural diversity into your home. Children learn about other countries, may pick up a second language, and develop global awareness. Many host families maintain lifelong friendships with their au pairs, creating lasting international connections.
Total costs typically range from $24,000 to $31,000 per year depending on agency fees, the stipend you offer above the minimum, and additional expenses like car insurance and phone costs. This is significantly less than two daycare slots, making it ideal for multi-child families.
Agency fees, ranging from $7,000 to $10,000, cover au pair screening, background checks, visa sponsorship, travel arrangements, cultural orientation, local coordinator support, and mediation services. Fees vary by agency and program tier.
An au pair costs roughly $25,000-$31,000 total per year, while a full-time nanny costs $44,000-$65,000 plus taxes and benefits. For families with multiple children, the au pair is often half the cost of a nanny since the price doesn't increase per child.
While not required, most host families provide access to a vehicle for childcare duties. Adding a young au pair to your auto insurance typically costs $100-$200/month. Some families purchase an inexpensive car specifically for au pair use.
The standard au pair program is 12 months, with an option to extend for 6, 9, or 12 additional months. If your au pair leaves early or the match doesn't work, most agencies will help place a new au pair at reduced or no additional fee.
Au pairs can work up to 45 hours per week and no more than 10 hours per day. They must receive 1.5 consecutive days off per week and one full weekend off per month. These limits are set by the Department of State and are non-negotiable.
Yes, au pair stipends are considered taxable income. However, au pairs on J-1 visas are exempt from FICA taxes. Host families are not responsible for employer payroll taxes on au pair stipends, which is a significant savings compared to employing a nanny.
Yes, but au pairs caring for children under 2 must have at least 200 hours of documented infant care experience. Many agencies also offer "EduCare" programs for families needing part-time care at reduced costs.