Hosting an au-pair in the United Kingdom offers a unique blend of childcare support, cultural exchange and flexibility for families — but it’s vital to know all the costs clearly before you begin. UK rules around live-in assistance have changed significantly, so understanding the new minimum wage, accommodation costs and working-hours expectations is essential. By knowing exactly what hosting an au-pair in the UK truly costs, families can budget realistically, meet legal requirements and create a rewarding experience for everyone involved.
In the UK the cost of hosting an au-pair depends on several key factors: the number of hours they work, their age (which determines the minimum wage rate), whether accommodation and meals are provided, and what additional benefits (travel, course fees, insurance) you offer them. It’s not a “flat stipend” system any longer — you must meet the national minimum wage plus provide board & lodging. On top of that, families should budget for realistic living-cost impacts: utilities, additional food, transport, mobile phone, and any agency or matching fees. Below is a transparent breakdown of the main cost items you will face in 2025 when hosting an au-pair in the UK.
| Cost Category | Approximate Amount* |
|---|---|
| Minimum Wage Payment (live-in offset included) | ~ £145/week (18-20 yrs, 25 hrs) up to £330/week (21+ yrs, 35 hrs) |
| Accommodation & Meals (estimated value) | ~ £250-£400/month (depending on region & meals) |
| Insurance & Other Protections | ~ £20-£40/month |
| Additional Household Costs | ~ £100-£200/month |
| Optional Agency or Matching Platform Fee | ~ £0-£100/month (if applicable) |
| Total Estimate | ~ £550-£1,000/month |
❓ What wage must I pay an au-pair in the UK now?
The UK now requires au-pairs to be paid at least the national minimum wage for their age category, after accounting for the board & lodging offset (£9.99/day) .
❓ Is board and lodging really valued?
Yes — live-in accommodation and meals are a key part of what an au-pair receives.
❓ Do I have to pay for language courses or travel?
Not legally mandated in the UK but offering support for English lessons can make your offer more attractive.
❓ Will hosting an au-pair increase household costs?
Absolutely. Extra food, laundry, utility usage, mobile costs and transport add up — expect a tangible monthly cost beyond just the wage.
❓ Are agency or platform fees required?
No, not always. You may choose to work via an agency or platform that charges fees; however, many families match independently or use low-cost platforms.