The Hamptons Summer Staffing Guide: When to Book and What It Costs

Every year, the same race: families who book their Hamptons summer staff in February choose from the best candidates. Families who start in May choose from what is left. Seasonal staffing on the East End follows its own rules — here is how to win it.

The seasonal calendar

• January–March: best availability for full-season nannies, housekeepers and private chefs
• April–May: remaining candidates command premium rates
• June onward: mostly last-minute replacements and short-term cover

What summer staff cost in the Hamptons

Seasonal nannies typically earn $35–$50 per hour or $2,500+ per week for rota-style arrangements; private chefs bill $600–$1,200 per day for the season; experienced housekeepers run $35–$50 per hour. Live-in arrangements are standard — and the quality of the staff housing often decides whether a top candidate accepts.

The mistake that costs families their summer

Hiring by photograph and phone call. A seasonal hire lives in your home for three months — the screening should be stricter, not lighter, than a permanent search. Every Elite Swiss candidate is personally interviewed and reference-checked with previous principals, whether the contract runs three months or three years.

Plan your season with our dedicated pages: Nanny Agency The Hamptons (us.elite-swiss.com/nanny-agency-hamptons), Private Chef Agency The Hamptons (us.elite-swiss.com/private-chef-agency-hamptons) and Elite Household Staffing The Hamptons (us.elite-swiss.com/elite-household-staffing-hamptons).