Sept. 11th, 2026

Is an Au Pair Cheaper Than a Nanny in Canada?

If you’re comparing childcare options in Canada, one of the first questions you may ask is: Is an Au Pair cheaper than a nanny?

In many cases, yes, hiring an Au Pair can cost less than hiring a professional nanny in Canada. However, there are some important differences families should understand before comparing costs.

Au Pair vs. Nanny Cost in Canada

Professional nannies in Canada typically earn a higher hourly wage based on their childcare experience, qualifications, responsibilities and the local employment market.

An Au Pair is usually a younger person from another country who comes to Canada for a cultural and work experience while living with a Host Family.

Because accommodation is normally provided as part of the arrangement, the overall cost of hiring an Au Pair can often be lower than hiring an experienced nanny.

However, Au Pairs working in Canada are not simply paid “pocket money.”

Families MUST follow the applicable employment standards in their province, including minimum wage and other employer obligations.

What Does an Au Pair Cost in Canada?

When calculating the cost of an Au Pair in Canada, families should consider more than just the hourly wage.

Costs may include:

• Wages based on provincial employment standards
• Employer CPP and EI contributions where applicable
• Workers’ compensation requirements where applicable
• Providing a private bedroom and meals
• Any applicable overtime or vacation pay

Room and board deductions may also be regulated differently depending on the province.

Why Can an Au Pair Be More Affordable?

The biggest advantage isn’t necessarily just the hourly cost.

For many Canadian families, an Au Pair provides flexible childcare at home.

Au Pairs generally live in  may help with morning routines, getting children ready for school, after-school care, children’s meals and other childcare-related duties.

This can be especially valuable for busy parents who don’t necessarily need a highly experienced career nanny, but do need another pair of hands in their everyday family life.

Is a Nanny Sometimes the Better Choice?

Absolutely.

If your family requires someone with extensive childcare experience, specialized infant care, significant household responsibilities or a high level of independence from the first day, an experienced nanny may be the better choice.

An Au Pair arrangement works best for families who are comfortable welcoming a younger person into their home and providing some guidance as they become part of the family’s daily routine.

Can an Au Pair Legally Work in Canada?

Before hiring an Au Pair, families should always confirm that the individual is legally authorized to work in Canada.

Under no circumstances can and Au Pair work on a visitor’s visa in Canada.

Many Au Pairs come to Canada through the International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday Program, which can provide eligible participants with an open work permit.

A Working Holiday open work permit generally allows the holder to work for employers in Canada.

A visitor or tourist status does not give someone permission to work as an Au Pair.

So, Is an Au Pair less Than a Nanny?

For many Canadian families, yes. An Au Pair can provide a more affordable and flexible alternative to hiring a professional nanny while also bringing the added benefit of cultural exchange.

But families should compare more than price.

The right question may be:

Which childcare option provides the right level of support for our family?

At International Nannies and Homecare Ltd., we have been helping Canadian families hire Au Pairs and nannies since 1998.

We work with pre-screened Host Families committed to fair and respectful employment practices and help families understand the responsibilities involved in hiring an Au Pair in Canada.

Considering hiring an Au Pair in Canada?
Chat with our team and learn whether an Au Pair could be a good choice for your