Buyers typically pay a combination of agency or program fees, weekly stipend, and occasional housing considerations that affect the total cost. In Chicago, local market factors like median housing costs and demand for au pairs influence both the initial setup and ongoing weekly expenses. The main cost drivers are program fees, stipend levels, and any applicable background checks or training costs. The cost framework below uses USD ranges to reflect typical Chicago prices.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program/Agency Fees | $2,000 | $3,200 | $4,500 | includes placement, matching, and onboarding. |
| Weekly Stipend | $195 | $320 | $350 | Based on standard wage scales; typically paid weekly. |
| Housing/Room & Board Consideration | $0 | $75 | $250 | From room or board contributions if provided by host family. |
| Background Checks & Training | $100 | $350 | $600 | Initial screenings and required safety courses. |
| Taxes, Insurance & Legal Fees | $0 | $50 | $150 | Employer responsibilities may apply in some cases. |
| Travel & Arrival Expenses | $0 | $200 | $800 | Airfare or local transportation to Chicago. |
| Contingency & Miscellaneous | $100 | $400 | $800 | Unforeseen costs and small add-ons. |
Overview Of Costs
In Chicago, total first-year costs commonly range from $9,000 to $15,000, depending on program fees, stipend level, and housing arrangements. A typical annual cost falls in the $12,000–$16,500 band when ongoing stipends and agency fees are counted. The per-week breakdown often shows stipend in the $195–$350 range, with annualized program fees of roughly $2,000–$4,500. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost Breakdown
Detailed components shape the overall price for an au pair in Chicago. The table below mixes total project costs with per-unit or per-interval figures to give a practical budgeting view.
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agency/Program Fees | $2,000 | $3,200 | $4,500 | Includes screening, placement, and onboarding services. |
| Weekly Stipend | $195 | $320 | $350 | Standard wage; paid directly to au pair. |
| Housing Arrangements | $0 | $75 | $250 | Room/board or housing stipend impact on total. |
| Background Checks & Training | $100 | $350 | $600 | Safety and eligibility verifications. |
| Taxes & Insurance | $0 | $50 | $150 | Employer obligations vary by arrangement. |
| Travel/Arrival | $0 | $200 | $800 | Initial transport to Chicago and settling costs. |
| Contingency | $100 | $400 | $800 | Buffer for misc. items or changes. |
What Drives Price
Price variance hinges on program type, housing options, and local demand in Chicago. Major drivers include stipends (weekly pay), agency fee structures, and whether the family covers health insurance or transportation. Regional market conditions in Chicago can shift the total by several thousand dollars compared with smaller markets. The program’s length, visa processing requirements, and required training also influence the bottom line.
Regional Price Differences
Prices in major U.S. cities like Chicago tend to be higher than rural areas due to living costs and demand. Compared with suburban and rural markets, Chicago typically exhibits elevated agency fees and higher weekly stipends. In rough terms, families in Chicago can see total year-one costs that are 5–15% higher than national averages for similar programs.
Labor, Hours & Rates
Stipend levels align with expected weekly hours and local wage norms. The standard au pair program assumes about 45–50 hours per week. If a family requires more hours or specialized skills (e.g., driving, multiple children), stipends may shift upward by 10–20% and program fees may adjust accordingly. Hourly equivalents and per-week budgeting help families compare options without guessing totals.
Additional & Hidden Costs
Hidden costs can accumulate if not planned for upfront. Expect potential charges for extra training, late-placement changes, or extended housing needs. Hidden fees may also surface from travel reimbursements, program renewals, or incremental background checks if a renewal occurs mid-contract.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical Chicago setups.
Assumptions: Chicago region, standard family housing, no special skills, 12-month term.
Basic
- Program Fee: $2,000
- Stipend: $195/week
- Housing Contribution: $0
- Initial Checks/Training: $100
- Arrival Travel & Misc.: $100
- Total (first year): $12,100
- Notes: Minimal services, standard housing setup.
Mid-Range
- Program Fee: $3,200
- Stipend: $320/week
- Housing/Room & Board: $100/month equivalent
- Background Checks/Training: $350
- Travel & Arrival: $250
- Total (first year): $15,500
- Notes: Balanced costs with added housing support and smoother onboarding.
Premium
- Program Fee: $4,500
- Stipend: $350/week
- Housing Contributions: $250/month equivalent
- Enhanced Training & Insurance: $600
- Travel & Arrival: $800
- Total (first year): $23,000
- Notes: Comprehensive support, higher stipends, flexibility for special needs.