How Much to Pay a Babysitter in Memphis, TN (2026)
Hourly rates, evening/weekend add-ons, and multi-child pricing
The going rate for a babysitter in Memphis, TN is $10–$16/hour, with $13/hour as the typical starting point for one child. $3/hr below national avg. One of the most affordable babysitting markets among major US cities. East Memphis and Germantown neighborhoods pay $13–$17/hr. Strong supply of student sitters from University of Memphis.
Memphis, TN babysitter rate summary (2026)
Typical Rate
$13/hr
1 child, daytime
Full Range
$10–$16
Based on experience
Evening / Weekend
$15/hr
+$2/hr after 6pm
2 Children
$16/hr
+$3/hr for 2nd child
3+ Children
$18/hr
+$2/hr beyond 2nd
vs National Avg
-$3
National avg $16/hr
Source: Sittercity, Care.com market surveys + BLS wage data for childcare workers in this metro. 2026 estimates.
Rate Calculator: Memphis, TN
Select number of kids and time of day to see what's fair to pay.
Suggested rate for Memphis, TN
$10–$18/hr
1 child, daytime
Memphis, TN vs. National Average
| Scenario | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|
| 1 child, daytime | $13/hr |
| 1 child, evening | $15/hr |
| 2 children, daytime | $16/hr |
| 2 children, evening | $18/hr |
What Drives Babysitter Rates in Memphis, TN?
- • No Tennessee state income tax
- • TN minimum wage $7.25/hr — market rates much higher
- • East Memphis and Germantown: $13–$17/hr
- • University of Memphis student sitter pool
- • Below Nashville by $2–$3/hr on average
Tipping Guide for Memphis, TN
Standard babysitting rates in Memphis, TN don't include tips — the hourly rate is the full price. But tipping makes sense in specific situations.
Holiday bookings
New Year's Eve, Christmas Eve: tip $10–$20 flat. They gave up their own night.
Year-end for regulars
Weekly sitters: one or two nights' pay as an annual bonus.
Above-and-beyond
Cleaned up, handled a sick child, bath and bedtime: $5–$10 extra.
Last-minute calls
Same-day booking and they came through: $10–$15 surcharge is fair.
Questions About Babysitter Pay in Memphis, TN
How much should I pay a babysitter in Memphis, TN?
Start at $13/hour for one child during daytime. That's the median for Memphis, TN in 2026 — $3/hr below national avg. For evenings and weekends, add $2/hour. A second child adds $3/hour. Experienced sitters with CPR certification or references typically earn $16–$19/hour.
What's the difference between a babysitter and a nanny in Memphis, TN?
A babysitter is occasional, hourly care — evenings, weekends, school breaks. A nanny is regular, ongoing care with consistent hours. Memphis, TN infant daycare averages $830/month. A babysitter at $13/hour for 40 hours/week would cost $2,080/month. For occasional evening coverage, the babysitter is far cheaper.
How do I find a babysitter in Memphis, TN?
Word of mouth is the most reliable method — ask neighbors, your daycare or school, or local parent Facebook groups. Apps like Sittercity and Care.com have large networks in Memphis, TN but charge the sitter a platform fee, which can push rates slightly higher than private arrangements. Always check references and request proof of CPR/First Aid certification for infants.
Full-time care in Memphis, TN?
Infant daycare in Memphis, TN averages $830/month. A nanny runs higher but covers multiple kids without per-child daycare fees.