Making a decision between hiring an au pair and hiring a nanny can be a difficult if you do not have all of the relevant information. Both au pairs and nannies provide housekeeping and childcare assistance to homeowners, however, the two provide different amounts of care and subsequently receive different pay scales.

What’s the difference?

Au pair
An au pair is a foreign student who comes to live with you, as a member of your family, in exchange for providing assistance in housekeeping and childcare.
Nanny
A nanny is an individual employed by the homeowner to provide caretaking assistance in housekeeping and childcare.

Nanny

Au Pair
Residence

Their home OR your home

your home
Payment

Regular payments

Housing, lower payments, and a small amount educational assistance
Work hours

Full time or part-time depending on your needs.

Maximum of 45 hours a week
Vacation Time

Can be agreed upon between the nanny and the homeowner

Examinations and study time must be taken into consideration
Services

Provide most, or all, housekeeping and babysitting duties

Duties must be discussed with applicant prior to hiring
Where to find

Sitter.com job posting, friends, family

U.S Approved Office or State Agency
Language

Varies, usually proficient in English

Language proficiency depends on prior countries of residence. English is required.
Qualifications

Often have several years of experience, CPR certified

Usually have minimal professional experience and often no certifications