Au Pair Costs
This page explains host-family costs and the pocket money or stipend an au pair can expect. Exact figures vary by destination.
Focus
Pocket money and total cost
Common extra
Language course or transport
Country note
Exact amounts vary by destination
What host families usually pay
Beyond pocket money, many families pay for board, lodging, insurance, and sometimes language course support or transport costs. Some routes also include a flight ticket or an education contribution, especially when the programme is formal.
Pocket money, stipend, and salary
Some countries call the payment pocket money or stipend; others use terms closer to salary or net salary. Agree the exact monthly or weekly amount and whether it is before or after tax.
How to compare offers
Compare the money against the full package: room, meals, insurance, language course support, vacation, and transport. A lower weekly amount can still be fair if the family covers more of the real cost of living.
- Pocket money or stipend amount
- Flight ticket or transport contribution
- Language course and insurance support
- Board, lodging, and paid vacation
Frequently asked questions
- Is pocket money the same as salary?
- Not always. Some programmes treat it as an allowance or stipend, while others treat the placement more like paid work.
- Do host families pay flight tickets?
- Sometimes. It depends on the country, the sponsor or agency, and the contract terms.
- Should costs be listed in the contract?
- Yes. The more detail you can list, the easier it is to compare placements and avoid surprises.
Need country-specific numbers?
Read Switzerland salary