Average Daycare Cost Calculator (2026)

The latest national average is $13,184 per year — about $1,099 per month or $254 per week. Your actual tuition depends on your state, provider, child's age, and schedule. Use the free calculator below for a local planning estimate.

National benchmark: Child Care Aware of America's 2025 Price & Supply analysis, released May 2026.

By clicking here, I state that I have read and understood the Terms and Conditions.

Estimated Monthly Child Care Cost $0
*A local planning estimate based on your selected state, care type, age, and schedule. Provider tuition varies.

📩 Email Me This Information

State Averages

Select a state to see averages.

Did You Know?

Child care costs have risen 220% since 1990, outpacing inflation by nearly double.

💡 Ways to Lower Cost

🏛️ State Subsidies
See if you qualify for programs that can cover up to 100% of your costs.
Check Eligibility →
🤝 Tri-Share
Employer/State split model.
Learn More →
💼 Employer ROI
Show your boss the savings.
ROI Tool →
💰 Tax Credits
Use CDCTC & FSAs.
Read Guide ↓

2026 Child Care Cost Rankings

Where does your state rank? The cost of child care varies dramatically across the country, with some states costing families three times more than others.

Top 5 Most Expensive States (Annual)
  • Washington D.C.$24,243
  • Massachusetts$21,840
  • California$19,719
  • New York$18,984
  • Colorado$18,132
Top 5 Most Affordable States (Annual)
  • Mississippi$6,840
  • Arkansas$7,668
  • Alabama$7,752
  • Kentucky$8,676
  • Louisiana$8,604

Average Child Care Cost Per Month in 2026

One of the most common questions parents ask is "how much does daycare cost per month?" The answer depends on your child's age, the type of care, and where you live. Below are the average monthly child care costs for the 10 most populous states.

State Infant
(0-2) /mo		 Toddler
(2-5) /mo		 School Age
(5+) /mo		 Annual
(Infant)
California$1,452$1,234$1,016$17,424
Texas$777$660$544$9,324
Florida$879$747$615$10,548
New York$1,612$1,370$1,128$19,344
Pennsylvania$1,050$893$735$12,600
Illinois$1,241$1,055$869$14,892
Ohio$862$733$603$10,344
Georgia$816$694$571$9,792
North Carolina$918$780$643$11,016
Massachusetts$1,742$1,481$1,219$20,904

Toddler and school-age estimates based on standard age multipliers (85% and 70% of infant rates, respectively). Use the calculator above for your exact estimate.

How Do People Afford Daycare?

With child care costs consuming 22% of the average household income, many families wonder how to make it work. Here are the most effective strategies families use to reduce their child care expenses.

🏛️ State Child Care Subsidies

Low- and moderate-income families may qualify for CCDF vouchers that cover 70-100% of child care costs. Eligibility varies by state.

Check Your Eligibility →

💰 Tax Credits & FSAs

The CDCTC offers up to $2,100 in tax credits. A Dependent Care FSA saves $1,200-$2,000 annually by using pre-tax dollars.

Read Tax Guide ↓

🤝 Tri-Share Programs

In participating states, costs are split three ways between the family, employer, and state, reducing your share by up to 66%.

See If Your State Participates →

🏠 Family Child Care Homes

Choosing a licensed family child care home over a commercial center can save 15-30% while providing a nurturing, small-group environment.

Calculate Home Care Costs ↑

💼 Employer Benefits

Ask your employer about child care stipends, backup care programs, or on-site child care. Many employers now offer these benefits to retain talent.

Show Your Boss the ROI →

📅 Part-Time & Shared Care

Switching from 5-day to 3-day care saves approximately 35%. Some families also arrange nanny-shares with neighbors to split costs.

Calculate Part-Time Costs ↑

For Researchers, Journalists & Media

ChildCareCalculators.com provides accurate, composite index data derived from state market rate surveys, federal reports, and proprietary provider listings. We are committed to transparency in the child care affordability conversation.

Download 2026 Dataset View Methodology

Cite Us: ChildCareCalculators.com (2025). 2026 Child Care Cost Analysis.

Understanding Child Care Costs: What You Need to Know

When families ask "how much does daycare cost" or "how much is daycare a week," the answer varies significantly. Child care costs in the U.S. have become one of the largest household expenses, often exceeding housing costs.

What Impacts Child Care Costs?

Several key factors determine how much you'll pay for child care each month:

1. National Brand Centers vs. Family Child Care: Large commercial franchise centers typically charge 30-50% more than independent family child care homes, due to higher overhead, marketing costs, and corporate margins.

2. Your Child's Age: Infant care costs significantly more than toddler or preschool care due to lower child-to-teacher ratios required by state regulations. Expect to pay 15-30% less as your child ages.

3. Geographic Location: Urban areas and high cost-of-living states like Massachusetts, California, and New York have the highest child care costs, while rural areas and southern states tend to be more affordable.

Family Child Care Home vs. Child Care Center

Many parents wonder about the difference between a family child care home and a traditional child care center. Both are licensed and regulated, but they offer distinct experiences:

Child Care Center

  • Commercial facility with multiple classrooms
  • Larger group sizes with age-based classrooms
  • Structured curriculum and activities
  • Multiple staff members and backup coverage

Family Child Care Home

  • Operated in a provider's residence
  • Smaller group sizes (typically 6-12 children)
  • Mixed-age groups foster sibling-like relationships
  • Lower cost (15-30% less than centers)

Babysitter vs. Nanny: Understanding In-Home Care

Babysitter: Provides occasional, short-term care on an as-needed basis. Babysitters typically work evenings, weekends, or for date nights and are paid hourly ($15-25/hour).

Nanny: Provides regular, long-term child care as a professional career. Nannies work consistent schedules (often full-time) and are typically considered household employees. Nanny costs range from $35,000-$75,000+ annually.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a difference between "daycare" and "child care"?

While often used interchangeably, "daycare" is an older term focused on supervision. "Child care" is the preferred professional term, recognizing that licensed programs support cognitive, social, and emotional development—far more than just "watching" children.

Why is infant care so expensive?

Infant care costs 15-30% more than preschool care due to strict state ratios. Most states require 1 teacher for every 3-4 infants, whereas one teacher can supervise 10-12 preschoolers. This higher labor requirement drives up the price.

How can I reduce child care costs?

Look into the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, use a Dependent Care FSA if your employer offers one, or check if your state offers a Tri-Share program (splitting costs with your employer and state). You can also save 15-30% by choosing a licensed family child care home over a commercial center.

What is the average cost of childcare in Tennessee?

In 2026, the average monthly cost of child care in Tennessee is approximately $826 per month for infant center-based care, or about $9,912 per year. Costs vary by city, with Nashville and Memphis typically 10-15% higher than rural areas. Toddler care averages around $702/month, and school-age care averages $578/month. Use our calculator above to get a personalized estimate for Tennessee.

What is the average cost to take care of a child per month?

The latest national benchmark is $13,184 per year, or about $1,099 per month and $254 per week, based on 2025 price data released by Child Care Aware of America in 2026. It is a national average, not a provider quote: costs vary sharply by state, program type, child age, and schedule. Use the calculator above for a local planning estimate.

What is the average cost of daycare in Illinois?

In 2026, the average monthly cost of daycare in Illinois is approximately $1,241 per month for infant center-based care, or about $14,892 per year. Chicago-area costs are typically 15-25% higher than the state average, with downtown Chicago centers charging up to $2,000+ per month. Families in Illinois may qualify for the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) to help offset these costs.

What is the maximum you can write off for child care?

For the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), you can claim up to 35% of $3,000 in qualifying expenses for one child (maximum credit of $1,050) or $6,000 for two or more children (maximum credit of $2,100). Additionally, if your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA, you can set aside up to $5,000 pre-tax annually. Note: You cannot use the same expenses for both the CDCTC and FSA. See our Parent Tax Guide below for details.

How do people afford daycare?

Families use several strategies to afford daycare: the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (up to $2,100), Dependent Care FSAs ($5,000 pre-tax), state child care subsidies (CCDF vouchers for qualifying families), Tri-Share programs that split costs three ways, choosing family child care homes (15-30% less than centers), and employer-sponsored child care benefits. Many families also reduce costs by switching to part-time schedules or arranging nanny-shares with other families. Check if you qualify for subsidies.

Parent Tax Guide: How Much is Daycare After Savings?

While the sticker price of child care is high, understanding tax mechanisms can help you calculate how much daycare is a week after applying federal and state savings.

1. Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC)

The CDCTC is a federal tax credit that allows you to claim a percentage of your child care expenses. For 2025/2026, you can typically claim up to 35% of $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two or more children. Unlike a deduction, this credit directly reduces your tax bill dollar-for-dollar.

2. Dependent Care FSA (DCFSA)

If your employer offers a Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account, you can set aside up to $5,000 pre-tax from your paycheck. Depending on your tax bracket, this can save you between $1,200 and $2,000 annually. Note: You cannot double-dip; expenses paid with FSA funds cannot also be used for the CDCTC.

View IRS Publication 503 for Details →

Child Care Cost Trends: 2019–2025

The latest national analysis places the 2025 average annual price of child care at $13,184, up modestly from $13,128 in 2024. Child Care Aware of America reports that prices rose 23% from 2021 through 2025, close to the 24% increase in overall prices during the same period.

Year Avg Annual Cost Avg Monthly Cost Year-over-Year Change
2019 $9,688 $807 —
2020 $10,174 $848 +5.0%
2021 $10,600 $883 +4.2%
2022 $10,853 $904 +2.4%
2023 $11,582 $965 +6.7%
2024 $13,128 $1,094 +13.3%
2025 $13,184 $1,099 +0.4%
$13,184
2025 national annual average
$1,099
monthly national equivalent
$254
weekly national equivalent

Source: Child Care Aware of America, Child Care in America: 2025 Price & Supply (published May 2026). National figures are planning benchmarks; local costs vary.

Child Care Costs by Metro Area (2025)

Child care costs vary dramatically by location. In 85 of the 100 largest U.S. metro areas, the cost of child care for two children exceeds the median rent. Here is how the top metro areas compare for monthly infant center-based care.

Metro Area Monthly Infant Care Monthly 2BR Rent Care vs. Rent
Washington, DC $2,140 $2,253 95%
Baltimore, MD $2,084 $1,857 112%
Worcester, MA $2,069 $2,056 101%
Denver, CO $1,819 $2,089 87%
Minneapolis, MN $1,807 $1,709 106%
Chicago, IL $1,712 $1,781 96%
Portland, OR $1,654 $1,922 86%
Indianapolis, IN $1,409 $1,302 108%
Miami, FL $1,139 $2,175 52%
National Average $1,282 $1,558 82%
85
of 100 metros where care for 2 kids exceeds rent
11
metros where infant care alone exceeds rent
$2,140
highest monthly infant care (Washington, DC)

Source: LendingTree analysis of 100 largest U.S. metro areas, November 2025. Infant care = center-based, full-time. Rent = median 2-bedroom apartment.

How Much Does Daycare Cost in 2026?

A comprehensive breakdown of child care costs across the United States, updated for 2026.

How Much Is Daycare a Week?

Quick answer: the latest national average is $254 per week, calculated from an annual average child care price of $13,184 in 2025. That is a national planning benchmark, not a local quote. A family’s actual weekly tuition can be materially higher or lower depending on the state, provider type, child’s age, and whether care is full time.

2025 National Child Care Benchmark Weekly Monthly Annual
Average child care price across reporting states $254 $1,099 $13,184

How Much Does Daycare Cost Per Month?

The national monthly equivalent is $1,099. However, a national average can hide large geographic differences. Child Care Aware of America specifically recommends interpreting prices in local context, because state, region, family income, age group, and program type all shape what families pay. Use the calculator above to turn that broad benchmark into a state-specific planning estimate, then confirm rates directly with providers.

Why Your Daycare Price May Differ From the National Average

Infant care often costs more than care for older children because licensing ratios require more staff per child. Center-based programs, licensed family child care homes, and in-home arrangements also price differently. Full-time care, extended hours, local real estate costs, and provider availability can all affect your tuition. The most useful budgeting workflow is to start with the national benchmark, compare your state, then request current quotes from nearby licensed providers.

Cost of Daycare: What Changed in the Latest Data?

Child Care Aware of America’s 2025 analysis found that the national average price rose from $13,128 in 2024 to $13,184 in 2025. The organization also reported that licensed center supply declined 1% from 2024 to 2025 while family child care homes increased 1.4%. Those national figures reinforce why a current local estimate and direct provider outreach both matter when families plan for care.

Methodology note: The $13,184 national figure is the average of three Child Care Aware of America calculation methods using price data from 47 states. It is designed as a national benchmark, not a substitute for a local provider quote.

How to Reduce Your Child Care Costs

While child care is expensive, families have several strategies to reduce the financial burden. Here's a summary of the most effective approaches, from immediate savings to longer-term solutions:

Strategy Potential Savings Who Qualifies
CCDF Subsidy Vouchers 70-100% of costs Low/moderate income families
Tri-Share Programs Up to 67% Families in 9 participating states
Dependent Care FSA $1,200-$2,000/yr Anyone with employer FSA plan
CDCTC Tax Credit Up to $2,100/yr All taxpayers with child care expenses
Family Child Care Home 15-30% less Anyone (vs. center-based care)
Employer Child Care Benefits $3,000-$6,000/yr Employees at participating companies
Part-Time Schedule (3 days) ~35% Families with flexible schedules

For employers looking to help their workforce with child care costs, the federal 45F tax credit can offset up to $500,000 annually in child care expenditures. Companies like TOOTRiS help employers implement child care benefit programs that leverage these credits while providing families with access to quality, affordable care.

Child Care Costs by State

Explore detailed cost breakdowns, city comparisons, and subsidy information for your state.

Texas
$1,057/mo avg
California
$1,596/mo avg
New York
$1,775/mo avg
Florida
$1,005/mo avg
Illinois
$1,241/mo avg
Massachusetts
$1,872/mo avg
Virginia
$1,285/mo avg
Maryland
$1,482/mo avg
Georgia
$893/mo avg
Ohio
$1,005/mo avg
Wisconsin
$1,178/mo avg

More Child Care Calculators

Whether you're a parent, employer, or child care provider, we have the tools to help you navigate child care costs.

Employer ROI Calculator
Calculate the ROI of offering child care benefits to your workforce
Construction Cost Calculator
Estimate the cost of building a child care center in your state
Tri-Share Calculator
See how Tri-Share splits child care costs between employer, employee, and state
Subsidy Eligibility Calculator
Check if you qualify for public child care assistance in your state

Content last reviewed and updated: