Household Staff Salaries in 2026: What US Families Should Budget

What does good household staff actually cost? Families planning their first hire — or reviewing an existing team — often lack transparent numbers. Here are current, realistic ranges for full-time positions in major US markets like New York, Los Angeles, Miami and San Francisco.

Salary ranges at a glance

• Nanny (career, full-time): $70,000–$130,000
• Rota nanny (per position): $100,000–$160,000
• Housekeeper / executive housekeeper: $60,000–$100,000
• Housekeeper couple (combined): $120,000–$200,000
• Private chef: $90,000–$160,000 (Michelin background above that)
• Butler / house manager: $90,000–$150,000
• Estate manager: $130,000–$250,000+
• Private chauffeur: $80,000–$130,000
• Personal assistant (UHNW): $90,000–$160,000

What moves a salary up or down

Location matters most — Manhattan and San Francisco sit roughly 20–30 % above Houston or Naples. Beyond that, salaries scale with years of UHNW experience, languages, formal qualifications, travel flexibility and whether the role is live-in. Guaranteed hours, overtime rules and health benefits are standard expectations at this level.

A word on paying legally

Household employees must be paid on payroll — with withheld taxes, social security and, depending on the state, workers' compensation. The so-called nanny tax is not optional, and at these salary levels no serious candidate accepts informal arrangements. We guide every client through compliant setup.

Planning a hire? In a short consultation, Elite Swiss gives you a precise, current market range for your role and your city — before you commit to anything.