The short answer
Per week
$350–600
USD
Per week
£300–500
GBP
Per week
€350–550
EUR
These are typical rates for experienced sitters – couples or singles – covering standard pet care, home security, and general property oversight. Rates vary by region, cost of living, and what's involved. Major cities and high-cost-of-living areas tend to be higher. Rural locations may be lower but often involve travel costs that balance things out.
Regional variations
| Region | Weekly Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USA / Canada | $400–700 | Higher in major metros |
| UK | £300–500 | London typically higher |
| Western Europe | €350–550 | Varies significantly by country |
| Australia / NZ | A$500–800 | Urban areas command premium |
| Southeast Asia | $200–400 | Expat communities often higher |
| Latin America | $200–400 | Major cities typically higher |
What's usually included
- Live-in presence (someone's there every night)
- All pet care – feeding, walking, medication if needed
- Home security – lights on, place looks lived-in
- Plant watering, bins out, minor bits and pieces
- Updates and communication while you're away
What's usually extra: pool maintenance, extensive gardening, livestock, driving pets to appointments, managing tradespeople.
What affects the rate
How does this compare to alternatives?
For a two-week trip with one or two dogs, here's how options typically compare. See our detailed housesitter vs kennel comparison for more.
| Option | Typical Cost | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Kennels / Boarding | $700–1,200+ | Dogs away from home, often stressed |
| Pet sitter visits | $500–900+ | Dogs alone most of the day |
| Housesitter | $600–1,000 | Dogs at home, 24/7 care, house secure |
Free-exchange vs paid: different models, both valid
For a deeper comparison, see our guide on free vs paid housesitting.
Free-exchange
TrustedHousesitters, Nomador – sitters want free accommodation, homeowners want free pet care.
Great for building experience, great for budget.
Paid housesitting
You hire someone based on experience. You pick the sitter you want. They're invested in excellent work.
For specific needs and guaranteed booking.
Key points
- • Experienced housesitters typically charge $350–600/week (varies by region)
- • Longer stays often mean better rates
- • Cost is often comparable to kennels – with better care
- • You're paying for experience, reliability, and peace of mind
- • It's a direct arrangement – no platform in the middle
- • You can browse sitters and see their rates directly
Rate Calculation Worksheet
Work through all the factors that affect fair pricing for your sit. Print it out and circle your options.