Nanny agency, app, nanny share or daycare?
Four ways to find childcare, compared on cost, effort and speed, so you can pick the right route before you spend money.
| Option | How it works / best for | Typical cost model | Time to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nanny agency | Shortlist of screened candidates; you interview and hire. Best when you want help screening and a replacement guarantee. | Placement fee, often 15–25% of first-year pay or a flat minimum | 2–6 weeks |
| Online marketplace (Care.com-style) | You post a job and screen candidates yourself. Best for flexible budgets and part-time or babysitting roles. | Monthly subscription; you do all the checks | Days to weeks |
| Nanny share | Two families share one nanny and split the cost. Best for infants and toddlers when a neighbour family has similar needs. | Each family pays part of a higher combined rate | Depends on finding a match |
| Daycare / childcare center | Licensed group care outside the home. Best when you want structure and a lower hourly cost. | Monthly tuition | Waitlists can be months |
Quick rules of thumb
- Newborn, twins or no time to screen: an agency or a newborn care specialist.
- Tight budget and flexible on hours: a nanny share or daycare.
- Part-time or occasional help: a babysitting service or marketplace.
- Live-in or rota care: an agency that specialises in it.