When and How to Give Your Nanny a Raise
Give your nanny a raise at the one-year mark if performance warrants it, and annually after that.
Quick Answer
Give your nanny a raise at the one-year mark if performance warrants it, and annually after that. In Los Angeles, a nanny who has not had a raise in two years is effectively earning less due to inflation. Proactive raises retain great nannies. Waiting to be asked creates resentment.
When to Give a Raise
The standard timing is after the first year of successful employment and annually after that. Some families also give raises when the role expands (new baby, increased hours, additional duties). If you promoted someone from part-time to full-time, that is a role change, not just a schedule adjustment. The compensation should reflect it.
How Much to Give in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, annual raises between 3% and 5% are standard for a nanny whose performance is strong. A raise of $1 to $2 per hour per year is common for nannies already in the $30 to $45 range. If your nanny is significantly below market rate for their experience level, consider a larger one-time adjustment to get to market before returning to annual increments.
How to Have the Conversation
Do not make it awkward by treating it as a negotiation. Frame it as a recognition of their work and a commitment to the relationship. Something like: "We've loved having you with the family this year. You've been great with the kids and we want to make sure we're taking care of you. Starting [date] we'd like to bring your rate to $X." Short, clear, generous in tone.
What Happens If You Do Not Give Raises
Great nannies in Los Angeles have options. Agency-placed nannies with strong references can find a new position relatively quickly. If you have not given raises in two years and a better offer comes along, do not be surprised when it is accepted. Retention is cheaper than replacement -- a new agency placement costs 15 to 20% of annual salary.
Raises vs. Bonuses
A bonus (holiday, year-end) is a one-time recognition. A raise changes the baseline. Both matter, but neither substitutes for the other. A family that gives a generous holiday bonus but never raises the hourly rate is essentially paying less each year in real terms. Do both.
Get a clearer nanny search plan
We help Los Angeles families define the role, understand pay, screen candidates, and move through the process with fewer surprises.