Why Is Childcare So Hard to Find Right Now? Understanding the Nanny Shortage in Ohio
In recent years, families across Ohio—especially in urban centers like Cincinnati and Cleveland—have found it increasingly difficult to secure reliable childcare. Despite offering competitive pay, flexible schedules, and appealing family dynamics, parents are struggling to find available nannies or daycare slots. This isn’t an isolated issue. What we're facing is a full-blown childcare shortage that affects not only families but the economy and workforce at large.
In this blog post, we’ll break down what’s driving the crisis, how it’s playing out in Ohio, and what parents can do to navigate this challenging landscape. We’ll also reference real discussions on forums like r/Nanny and r/NannyEmployersto show how this is affecting families and caregivers firsthand.
What’s Happening? A Snapshot of the Shortage
The childcare shortage isn’t just anecdotal. According to a 2025 report from Policy Matters Ohio, the number of childcare workers in the state has dropped by nearly 32% from pre-2017 levels. This reduction in workforce is one of the leading reasons families cannot find nannies or spots in quality daycare programs (Policy Matters Ohio).
Meanwhile, Spectrum News1 reports that Ohio loses $5.48 billion per year due to childcare-related workforce disruptions. This includes $1.52 billion in lost tax revenue and $3.96 billion in employer-related costs such as absenteeism, reduced productivity, and high employee turnover (Spectrum News).
So yes—this is an urgent issue, with real consequences.
What’s Causing the Shortage?
There isn’t a single culprit behind Ohio's childcare crisis, but rather a perfect storm of contributing factors.
1. Low Wages and Limited Benefits
Despite the important role they play, childcare workers are often paid less than their counterparts in other industries. In Licking County, for instance, the average hourly wage for childcare professionals is $12/hour, while the living wage for a single adult is closer to $15/hour (Spectrum News).
Many qualified caregivers are leaving the industry to seek better-paying jobs in retail, customer service, or administrative roles. The risk, stress, and responsibility that come with caring for children simply don't align with the wages offered.
2. Post-Pandemic Demand Surge
During the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of childcare centers across the country closed—some temporarily, others for good. As the economy reopened, demand for childcare returned faster than the supply of caregivers. While many industries recovered, childcare lagged due to staffing shortages, increased operational costs, and burnout.
3. High Burnout Rates Among Nannies
On Reddit’s r/Nanny, countless threads document caregiver burnout:
“I’ve worked with three families in the past two years. All were nice, but I’m just so tired. I’m not paid enough to be a therapist, tutor, housekeeper, and disciplinarian.”
The emotional toll of nannying—especially without benefits or job security—leads many professionals to leave the field.
4. Lack of Incentives to Enter the Field
Young adults entering the workforce are choosing jobs with clearer paths for advancement. Few view nannying or childcare as a "career," in part because the role is undervalued by society. Without state incentives, credentialing support, or benefits, there's little draw for new talent.
5. Regulatory and Licensing Barriers
While safety regulations are critical, the licensing process in Ohio can be time-consuming and costly. Some small providers opt out entirely, which limits the supply of qualified, licensed care. Others cite administrative red tape as a deterrent to expanding their childcare businesses.
What This Looks Like for Families
Reddit threads in r/NannyEmployers and r/Parenting are full of stories from frustrated parents who:
Receive zero applications for posted jobs
Offer generous pay and still can't find qualified candidates
Have interviews set up and candidates no-show
Lose nannies after a few months due to burnout or better-paying offers
One parent shared:
"We posted a $25/hour nanny job in Cleveland with PTO and a flexible schedule. Within 48 hours, the nanny we hired told us she had 4 other offers. We’re thrilled with her, but it was eye-opening. The competition is unreal."
In Cincinnati, the situation is similar. Even families working with agencies report delays in securing long-term placements. Many have turned to temporary care solutions or adjusted work schedules while they continue their search.
The Economic Ripple Effect
Beyond the emotional and logistical strain on families, the nanny shortage has broader economic consequences:
Parents (often mothers) reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely.
Employers deal with staffing shortages, absenteeism, and productivity loss.
Children miss out on early learning opportunities, which research links to long-term academic and social outcomes.
In Ohio alone, this adds up to billions in economic loss. Childcare is the infrastructure that makes every other job possible—without it, the whole system suffers.
Who Is Stepping In to Help?
Some state and local organizations are working toward solutions:
1. Action for Children
This nonprofit is partnering with Ohio businesses to create on-site childcare solutions and subsidized programs. Their goal is to make childcare more accessible while reducing the financial burden on families and increasing incentives for providers.
2. Policy Proposals in the Ohio Legislature
Proposals are underway to:
Expand tax credits for families using paid childcare
Increase reimbursement rates for subsidized care
Provide startup grants for new childcare centers
But progress is slow, and most families need help now.
What Can Families Do Right Now?
If you’re in Cincinnati or Cleveland and struggling to find care, here are a few strategies:
1. Start Your Search Early
Begin the nanny search at least 8-12 weeks before your ideal start date. High-quality candidates are snapped up fast.
2. Use a Professional Agency
Agencies like Hunny Nanny Agency pre-screen, reference-check, and present only qualified candidates—saving you time and reducing risk.
3. Consider Nanny Shares
Nanny sharing—where two families split one nanny—is growing in popularity in urban areas like Hyde Park (Cincinnati) and Shaker Heights (Cleveland). It lowers costs and increases flexibility.
4. Be Transparent About Your Needs
Clearly communicate:
Schedule expectations
Job duties
Compensation
PTO and benefits
The more organized and realistic you are, the more likely you’ll attract top talent.
5. Treat Your Nanny as a Professional
Offer written contracts, conduct regular check-ins, and ensure they feel valued. Happy nannies stay longer.
Reddit-Backed Tips from Real Parents and Nannies
Some top upvoted advice from Reddit communities:
“If you find a good nanny, treat her well. Give raises. Say thank you. Don’t micromanage.”
“Respect PTO and personal boundaries. This isn’t a live-in maid.”
“Offer paid holidays and sick days. It’s the right thing to do and helps with retention.”
These insights reflect a key theme: nannies are professionals, and should be treated as such.
Conclusion: We Can’t Afford to Ignore This
The childcare shortage in Ohio isn’t going away on its own. It demands collective action—from policymakers, employers, parents, and caregivers. For families, navigating this challenge requires a blend of realism, planning, and support.
At Hunny Nanny Agency, we’re proud to help families in Cincinnati and Cleveland find professional, vetted caregivers. While the search might take longer in today’s climate, we’re here to walk you through it, every step of the way.
Let’s build a childcare system that works for everyone.
Additional Resources
Policy Matters Ohio - Childcare Crisis Report
Spectrum News1 - Childcare Economy Impact
Ohio Department of Job and Family Services
Need help with your childcare search? Start your application with Hunny Nanny Agency today. We're here to make the impossible feel manageable.
