How Much Childcare Costs by State in the USA in 2023
Neelabja Adkuloo
Published 09th Jan 2023
The childcare costs in the States are not affordable for families anymore. Most US families, who make the median income, cannot send their infant or toddler to daycare. It’s not because they don’t want to. It’s because childcare costs by state have risen substantially.
Of parents surveyed in the 2022 Cost of Care Survey, 72% say center-based care for their infant costs 10% of their family’s income. 51% of respondents spend more than 20%. Ironically, the US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) considers daycare affordable when it costs no more than 7% of their household income.
These competitive expenses allow new daycares and preschools to deliver quality care at reduced prices. Here’s a roundup of childcare costs by state for daycare owners to take as a benchmark for setting their pricing.
Table of Contents
How Much do Daycares Cost: A Breakdown
In most US states, childcare costs exceed the cost of university tuition. The 2022 survey by Care.com throws up some interesting insights from parents:
- 80% wish that childcare was cheaper
- 44% quit their job to look after their infant
- 65% say they would return back to their career if childcare becomes affordable
- 59% struggle to pay for childcare
- 35% said childcare costs prevent them from expanding their family
- 79% wish employers were more supportive of working parents
- 72% believe that daycare has become more expensive post-pandemic
The average cost of childcare in the USA is $14760 annually. But hardly any state meets this threshold. Unbelievable, isn’t it? Scroll down to see the average annual cost of daycare where you live, approximate number of chilcare centers, and the average number of students and staff per center.
| US State (alphabetical order) |
| Alabama |
| Alaska |
| Arizona |
| Arkansas |
| California |
| Colorado |
| Connecticut |
| Delaware |
| Florida |
| Georgia |
| Hawaii |
| Idaho |
| Illinois |
| Indiana |
| Iowa |
| Kansas |
| Kentucky |
| Louisiana |
| Maine |
| Maryland |
| Massachusetts |
| Michigan |
| Minnesota |
| Mississippi |
| Missouri |
| Montana |
| Nebraska |
| Nevada |
| New Hampshire |
| New Jersey |
| New Mexico |
| New York |
| North Carolina |
| North Dakota |
| Ohio |
| Oklahoma |
| Oregon |
| Pennsylvania |
| Rhode Island |
| South Carolina |
| South Dakota |
| Tennessee |
| Texas |
| Utah |
| Vermont |
| Virginia |
| Washington |
| West Virginia |
| Wisconsin |
| Wyoming |
| Annual childcare cost |
| $6001 |
| $12120 |
| $10948 |
| $6890 |
| $16945 |
| $15325 |
| $15591 |
| $11021 |
| $9238 |
| $8520 |
| $13731 |
| $7474 |
| $13802 |
| $12612 |
| $10379 |
| $11222 |
| $6411 |
| $7724 |
| $9449 |
| $15335 |
| $20913 |
| $10861 |
| $16087 |
| $5436 |
| $10041 |
| $9518 |
| $12571 |
| $11408 |
| $12791 |
| $12988 |
| $8617 |
| $15394 |
| $9480 |
| $9091 |
| $9697 |
| $8576 |
| $13616 |
| $11842 |
| $13696 |
| $7007 |
| $6511 |
| $8732 |
| $9324 |
| $9945 |
| $12813 |
| $14063 |
| $14554 |
| $8736 |
| $12567 |
| $10647 |
| Approx no. of childcare centers |
| 1,698 |
| 37 |
| 3,945 |
| 1,996 |
| 10,654 |
| 2,881 |
| 1,571 |
| 453 |
| 8,939 |
| 8,790 |
| 562 |
| 487 |
| 2,576 |
| 2,158 |
| 1,656 |
| 1,134 |
| 1,782 |
| 3,004 |
| 953 |
| 3,103 |
| 1,685 |
| 4,440 |
| 1,782 |
| 1,303 |
| 1,997 |
| 322 |
| 1,165 |
| 359 |
| 765 |
| 1,238 |
| 1,265 |
| 5,589 |
| 4,456 |
| 1,352 |
| 6,485 |
| 1,779 |
| 2,419 |
| 6,151 |
| 121 |
| 1,516 |
| 381 |
| 3,784 |
| 11,535 |
| 1,531 |
| 1,000 |
| 4,097 |
| 2,412 |
| 674 |
| 2,715 |
| 294 |
| Average no. of students per center |
| 22 |
| 18 |
| 20 |
| 20 |
| 14 |
| 15 |
| 10 |
| 15 |
| 25 |
| 25 |
| 20 |
| 20 |
| 20 |
| 15 |
| 20 |
| 16 |
| 20 |
| 25 |
| 13 |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| 18 |
| 15 |
| 25 |
| 16 |
| 22 |
| 15 |
| 13 |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| 25 |
| 18 |
| 18 |
| 20 |
| 15 |
| 15 |
| 13 |
| 23 |
| 15 |
| 20 |
| 26 |
| 20 |
| 13 |
| 20 |
| 15 |
| 16 |
| 18 |
| 18 |
| Average educators per center |
| 5 |
| 5 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 6 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 3 |
| 5 |
| 6 |
| 4 |
| 3 |
| 3 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 6 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 5 |
| 5 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
| 4 |
1. Alabama
How much does daycare cost annually?
In Alabama, childcare for an infant comes in at an average annual cost of $6001. For a preschooler, the average cost is a little less – $5001 annually.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1698
- Avg number of students per center: 22
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Alabama’s demographics impact childcare?
- For the average Alabama family, childcare costs 11.9% of their gross income.
- Minimum wage workers in Alabama often earn less than $16,000 per year, adding to Alabama’s poverty rate of 17.2%.
- Because of a poverty rate of 17.2%, families in Alabama struggled with using tech to set up virtual classes during COVID-19, resulting in learning losses for 11% of children.
2. Alaska
How much does daycare cost annually?
On average, a family spends $12120 on infant care and $10000 on toddler care, making its childcare services one of the costliest in America.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 37
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Alaska’s demographics impact childcare?
- Although Alaska is the largest US state, it is the least populated state in the Union. The average population density in Alaska is 1.2 people per square mile.
- The median income in nuclear households is $51,651 annually, with families spending 20% on childcare.
3. Arizona
How much does daycare cost annually?
The residents of Arizona pay $10948 annually for infant care, while preschool for a 4 or 5-year child costs nearly $8900.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 3945
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Arizona’s demographics impact childcare?
- Although Arizona is the sixth largest US state by area, the average family earnings are low, with households making around $40,039 annually.
- However, parents expect childcare bills to lower as the fastest-growing state by population is attracting childcare service providers in hordes.
4. Arkansas
How much does daycare cost annually?
Yearly, parents in Arkansas spend $6890 on infant care and $5000 on a preschooler. The numbers may seem lower than the rest of the US states, but Arkansas has the 7th highest poverty rate, making childcare unaffordable for nearly 80% of its residents.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1996
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 6
How do Arkansas’s demographics impact childcare?
- Arkansas is among the 10 states with the highest poverty rates.
- The state is home to some of America’s poorest families, and reported a 16.4% poverty rate in 2022 – 7th highest among all states.
- A single minimum wage worker spends, on average, 35.8% of their pay on child care, while families with kids who earn median wages spend 14.6%.
5. California
How much does daycare cost annually?
The Golden State ranks number 4 for childcare costs in the US, according to a 2022 survey. Families in California typically spend a whopping amount of $16945 annually on infant care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 10,654
- Avg number of students per center: 14
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do California’s demographics impact childcare?
- Half of Hollywood resides in California, which justifies the skyrocketing childcare prices.
- 93% of its 40 million residents are unable to access affordable childcare services.
- Families spend nearly 20-30% of their annual earnings on care for a single child.
6. Colorado
How much does daycare cost annually?
Full-time infant care in Colorado costs $15325 annually on average. The residents spend about $15000 on care for 4 and 5 years olds/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,881
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Colorado’s demographics impact childcare?
- A 2022 report by the US Congress Joint Economic Committee says that Colorado has the third highest average infant care costs.
- Since minimum wage workers earn nearly $25000 annually, they spend 50% of it on childcare, which burns a hole in their pocket.
7. Connecticut
How much does daycare cost annually?
While infant care in Connecticut sets parents back by $15591 yearly, parents of 4 and 5-year-olds have a slightly more affordable option.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1571
- Avg number of students per center: 10
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Connecticut’s demographics impact childcare?
- Connecticut is implementing a minimum wage increase that will see the wages increasing from $11 per hour to $15 per hour by June 2023.
- On average, nuclear family households make about $45359 annually, making childcare bills stressful for them.
- They would need to spend 73.8% of what they earn to afford just one year of infant care services for their child.
8. Delaware
How much does daycare cost annually?
For a single infant, a family has to shell out $11021/year to place them in daycare. On the other hand, childcare for a preschooler sets them back by nearly $10000/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 453
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Delaware’s demographics impact childcare?
- Delaware workers make around $28000 annually. The minimum wages in the US state have been stagnant even though inflation has been on the rise.
- Latest statistics conclude that the parents end up spending 55% of their annual earnings on daycare services.
9. Florida
How much does daycare cost annually?
The average cost of center-based care for a toddler in Florida is pegged at $8000/year. The infant care costs have gone through the roof, with parents setting aside $9238 annually to pay for daycare.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 8,939
- Avg number of students per center: 25
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Florida’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median wage in Florida is $34,560. This puts the state at 41st among all states.
- A family earning two median incomes would spend 13.3% of their gross income on infant care services for one child.
- However, daycare providers argue that a sizable part of their budget has to be allocated to tech – live streaming classes, bus tracking, and a parent-teacher communication app.
10. Georgia
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care in Georgia costs an average of $8520 annually, while placing a five-year old in a preschool is likely to cost a family roughly $7000/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 8,790
- Avg number of students per center: 25
- Avg number of educators per center: 6
How do Georgia’s demographics impact childcare?
- Georgia’s median earnings are $40000 annually, due to which childcare becomes inaccessible to the minimum age worker who earns $20000/year.
- Because they would have to spend about 80% of their gross income on child care with just one child, the lowest-paid residents of the state will never be able to afford it.
- Georgia is the eighth-most populous state with nearly 10 million citizens. The availability of cheap child care would have a significant positive economic and social impact.
11. Hawaii
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care in Hawai sets parents back by $13731 annually. Care for a preschooler, on the other hand, costs approximately $12000/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 562
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Hawaii's demographics impact childcare?
- The state of beautiful beaches also has the highest cost of living in the US. The average earnings of married families in Hawaii is $108893 yearly and of nuclear families comes in at $49031/annum.
- The latter group struggle with affording childcare, spending 15% of their income on childcare management services put in place by childcare owners.
12. Idaho
How much does daycare cost annually?
The high infant care costs in Idaho – coming in at $7474/year – and challenges while hiring teachers are concerning because they affect the quality of care the majority of children in Idaho receive.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 487
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Idaho’s demographics impact childcare?
- The current Idaho state minimum wage is $23000/annum an hour.
- Many families who make the median income in this US state can’t afford childcare costs as it takes up 18% of their earnings.
13. Illinois
How much does daycare cost annually?
The yearly cost of a center-based care for an infant in Illinois is $13802. The daycare cost for a 3-5 years old child is nearly $12000/annum.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,576
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Illinois’s demographics impact childcare?
- The cost of child care for households is close to the median household income level of $5,730 per month, which is more than 20% of gross income.
- Childcare services take away an astounding 50% of the median yearly income of families based in Illinois.
14. Indiana
How much does daycare cost annually?
On an average, families pay $12612 for care for a single infant annually and the price of paying for a preschooler is nearly $10000/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,158
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Indiana’s demographics impact childcare?
- Indiana has a diverse population. The most prominent races are Blacks and Hispanics, with 27% below the poverty level. In contrast, only 10% of Whites are below the poverty line.
- The median income of $30000-$50000 makes it difficult for parents to provide a developmentally appropriate education to their kids.
15. Iowa
How much does daycare cost annually?
A childcare facility in Iowa charges $10379 annually for caring for an infant and an average of $8000 per annum for care for a toddler.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,656
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Iowa’s demographics impact childcare?
- Situated in the midwest, Iowa’s population comprises farmers who work the farmlands and tend to the livestock.
- With 11.11% of people in Iowa below the poverty line and earning a median income of $35000-$60000, childcare providers struggle to market their childcare to mothers, majority of whom stay at home to look after the children.
16. Kansas
How much does daycare cost annually?
On average, childcare centers in Kansas charge $11222/year for routine infant care. For toddlers, the cost comes around to $10000 annually.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,134
- Avg number of students per center: 16
- Avg number of educators per center: 3
How do Kansas’s demographics impact childcare?
- Kansas people still struggle to locate reasonably priced, high-quality child care choices, despite having the eighth-lowest cost of living in the country.
- The median household income in Kansas is $61091 in 2022.
- The parents in Kansas spend nearly 15% of their earnings to cover childcare costs for a single child.
17. Kentucky
How much does daycare cost annually?
Parents in Kentucky expect to pay $6411 per year for center-based infant care and an average of $5000 per month for care for a preschooler. Kentucky has some of the lowest childcare costs by state for children aged 4-5 years old.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,782
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Kentucky’s demographics impact childcare?
- Even while child care is more reasonable in Kentucky than in other parts of the country, many families still cannot afford it.
- A family would spend slightly under 12% of their total income on center-based infant care for one child with a typical household income of around $4,500 per month.
- Kentucky’s low cost of living makes it a terrific location to start a profitable childcare. There’s not a lot of competition in the childcare industry, giving you an opportunity to free parents for joining work by leaving their kids behind with you.
18. Louisiana
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care costs $7724/year on average while care for a preschooler is likely to cost $6000 annually.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 3,004
- Avg number of students per center: 25
- Avg number of educators per center: 6
How do Louisiana’s demographics impact childcare?
- Louisiana’s childcare costs are low compared to other US states.
- At a median salary of $50,800 per household, childcare owners and directors observe centers running at low capacity because it’s not within an affordable range for families.
19. Maine
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare services in Maine are expensive to most families. While infant care costs $9449 per year, center-based care for preschoolers can cost $8000 yearly.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 953
- Avg number of students per center: 13
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Maine’s demographics impact childcare?
- Maine is one of the least populated US states. Majority of the people live in and around Portland, making it an ideal location to start your preschool.
- The median salary of families is above industry standards in Maine, which will help you turn your preschool profitable.
20. Maryland
How much does daycare cost annually?
Maryland families have to cough up $15335 annually for infant care while for care of a 4 year old, they end up paying nearly $14000.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 3,103
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 3
How do Maryland’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median wage of a household is $69110, which means families spend nearly 10% of their income on rearing children
- Maryland’s average salary for child care employees is slightly above the federal minimum, but many families find it difficult to afford childcare because of the depreciating job sector.
21. Massachusetts
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care services in Massachusetts cost $20913 per year, which is an exorbitant sum. Center-based care, on the other hand, for a preschooler can cost nearly $18500.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,685
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 3
How do Massachusetts’s demographics impact childcare?
- The high female unemployment rate in Massachusetts i.e. 24.39% can be attributed to costly childcare services.
- With the median income of an average household being $84,385, families spend nearly 20% of their earnings on childcare for their infant.
22. Michigan
How much does daycare cost annually?
Despite having a low cost of living, Michigan residents struggle to find high-quality, tech-friendly childcare options. Infant care for a single child in a daycare costs $10861, while care for a preschooler is priced at $10000.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 4,440
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Michigan’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median family in Michigan would spend 19% of their gross income on baby care services for a single kid with a monthly household income of about $4,750.
- Some economists are optimistic that Michigan can pass tax incentives to support childcare businesseses in a state whose main source of income, the car industry, is declining rapidly.
23. Minnesota
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare in Minnesota is more expensive than university tuition and rent combined. Infant care costs $16087 annually in the state while care for preschoolers costs $15000 per year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,782
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Minnesota’s demographics impact childcare?
- In Minnesota, childcare costs are the second highest among all states.
- Minnesota couples may earn higher household incomes, but the high cost of childcare means that these families still spend up to 23% of their income on childcare for one child.
- In fact, the Minnesota Department of Human Services extends help to low-income parents with subsidy programs to cover the high charges of daycare reporting and other expenses.
24. Mississippi
How much does daycare cost annually?
A facility in Mississippi charges $5436/annum for infant care and $5000 per year for toddler care, making childcare cheaper than the rest of the US states.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,303
- Avg number of students per center: 25
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Mississippi’s demographics impact childcare?
- Mississippi had the second-lowest median household income in 2022, right behind West Virginia.
- The median household earns a monthly income of $3,675 and spends 12.3% of their income on infant care for one child. A minimum wage earner has to work for nearly 100 hours to cover the average cost of childcare in Mississippi.
- Mississippi has the lowest housing costs and the fourth-lowest grocery costs, making it a potentially appealing market for starting an affordable childcare center.
25. Missouri
How much does daycare cost annually?
Parents in Missouri pay $10041 yearly for infant care and an average of $9000 for care for a four-year-old.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,997
- Avg number of students per center: 16
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Missouri’s demographics impact childcare?
- The average Missouri household earned about $4,500 per month in 2022 and would have had to spend about 18.5% of their total income on center-based infant care for a single child each month.
- You can visit the Missouri Department of Social Services for help with paying the daycare fee, in light of less employment opportunities in the state.
26. Montana
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare centers in Montana charge $9518/year for infant care and $8000/year for toddler care, charging an average of $8350 across the state.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 322
- Avg number of students per center: 22
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Montana’s demographics impact childcare?
- According to a study of Montana households, the median income is $55,328 (or $4,610 per month).
- This family would spend 17% of their monthly income on the single childcare they need.
- In contrast, a childcare provider only makes an average of $21,140 annually and would have to put 45% of their net income in order to make that same monthly wage
27. Nebraska
How much does daycare cost annually?
Parents are expected to pay $12571/annum for infant care in Nebraska and $10000 for toddler care, making it one of the most expensive US states for childcare.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,165
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Nebraska’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median household in 2022 made just under $5,000 per month and would have spent more than 20% of their total income on childcare for one child.
- In Nebraska, childcare costs more than both rent and college tuition.
28. Nevada
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care services cost $11408 yearly in Nevada, and toddler care is priced at $10000 annually
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 359
- Avg number of students per center: 13
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Nevada’s demographics impact childcare?
- The Silver State’s residents earn nearly $84000 annually, shelling out 7-15% of their income on childcare.
- The Nevada Early Care and Education Office is a useful resource for parents who are looking for resources to help care for their children. The website contains guides on early childhood education, as well as applications to receive childcare assistance.
29. New Hampshire
How much does daycare cost annually?
An year of infant care in New Hampshire costs $12791. Toddler care comes in close at $10000 annually.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 765
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do New Hampshire’s demographics impact childcare?
- In New Hampshire, mandatory minimum wage earners face a particular challenge when it comes to childcare. They must spend 85% of their pay in order to put an infant in center-based care.
- A median New Hampshire family had an income of $6,249 that year but would still have to spend 17% on infant care–over six weeks’ of income for them.
- New Hampshire’s Department of Health and Human Services provides licensing guidelines for providers of center-based and home-based child care services. They also provide guidance on child care management requirements and other relevant topics.
30. New Jersey
How much does daycare cost annually?
An year of infant care in New Jersey costs $12988. Toddler care, on the other hand, costs $11000.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,238
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do New Jersey’s demographics impact childcare?
- New Jersey may be one of the smallest states in America, but it packs a big punch.
- It is an expensive state, with mean household income coming to $85245. Families in New Jersey pay some of the lowest portions of their salary, 10%.
- Parents can visit the Child Care New Jersey website for information on child care subsidies, how to choose a child treatment center and how to find child care locally.
31. New Mexico
How much does daycare cost annually?
The cost of infant care yearly in New Mexico is $8617 and toddler care is priced at $7000/annum.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,265
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 6
How do New Mexico’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median household income in New Mexico is just over $3,900 in 2022.
- That household would have to spend more than 18% of its monthly cash flow on child care services for a single infant.
- Opening a licensed childcare center in the state is profitable due to many unregulated services having cropped up.
32. New York
How much does daycare cost annually?
The cost of infant care in New York is $15394/year and toddlers are cared for in facilities at the price of $14000 yearly.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 5,589
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do New York’s demographics impact childcare?
- Minimum wage workers earning under $50000 struggle to keep up with the rising infant care costs in New York, which takes away about 35% of their income.
- New York’s Division of Child Care Services operates subsidies for the State of New York. The State also invests in Early Head Start programs to lessen the blow of the rising childcare costs by state.
33. North Carolina
How much does daycare cost annually?
The infant care costs in North Carolina are $9480/annum and for toddler care, it is set at approximately $8500/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 4,456
- Avg number of students per center: 25
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do North Carolina’s demographics impact childcare?
- Recently, the median household income in North Carolina was $4,542 per month. For a median family with one infant, 17.5% of their monthly income would have been spent on child care services.
- Minimum wage workers in North Carolina earn the Federal minimum wage ($7.25 per hour) which contributed to their 14.7% poverty rate in 2022.
- One long-running NC program, subsidized child care, aims to help by providing a way for parents to get affordable access to quality care for their children. The requirements are strict and only qualified caregivers can be considered eligible. You can visit the North Carolina DHHS website for more information on eligibility requirements and application processes.
34. North Dakota
How much does daycare cost annually?
There are currently 4,000 childcare providers in North Dakota, including group homes and centers, charging $9091 for infant care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,352
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do North Dakota’s demographics impact childcare?
- An average household comprises 2-4 family members, with the median income being $49,475 annually. Families spend a staggering 35% on childcare.
- If a family decides to have a second child, they could end up spending nearly 30% of their net income on child care.
- North Dakota is home to programs and resources that can help parents save money on child care. Child Care Aware of North Dakota offers such services.
35. Ohio
How much does daycare cost annually?
At an average of $9697/year, childcare in Ohio costs more than the yearly college tuition.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 6,485
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do Ohio’s demographics impact childcare?
- Ohio is one of the most densely populated and expensive US states, with families spending 32% of their annual income on covering childcare costs.
- The median household income in Ohio is just under $4,700 per month. The median family would have spent 17% of their income on infant care for a single child – which is 7% more than the affordability threshold established by the U.S. DHHS.
- If you’re looking to implement some changes with your child care provider that will help your family, the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services can help you.
36. Oklahoma
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care in Oklahoma will cost families an average of $8576 per year for tuition at a daycare, while for four year olds, the centers charge an average of $7000 annually.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,779
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Oklahoma’s demographics impact childcare?
- In 2022, the median household income in Oklahoma was just over $4,300 per month. This household would have had to spend nearly 17% of that income on infant care for a single child.
- Since centers in Oklahoma have more amenities for working parents, such as bus tracking, it also causes the costs to go significantly higher.
- Parents can explore the Oklahoma Department of Human Services website for information about choosing quality child care.
37. Oregon
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare for parents costs nearly $13616 annually if they opt for a group home or a center-based service as opposed to a private center in Oregon, which costs more.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,419
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Oregon’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median household income in Oregon is only $5,300 per month. This means that this household would have to spend nearly 21% of its total cash flow on child care for a single infant.
- 1 out of every 33 adults in Oregon has a child dependent on them to meet their basic needs. It costs nearly 21% of their total cash flow to take care of their infant/toddler.
- Oregon is one of the most expensive states for living, and it’s hardest on families with kids who need high-quality and affordable child care. Oregon Early Learning can help! They have a database of many different providers that are high-quality and affordable.
38. Pennsylvania
How much does daycare cost annually?
They pay $11842 per annum for infant care and $10500 yearly for toddler care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 6,151
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Pennsylvania’s demographics impact childcare?
- An average Pennsylvania household makes $5,075 a month. That household would have to allocate 19.5% of its monthly income for infant care services for a single child.
- A minimum wage worker in Pennsylvania makes the Federal minimum wage and would have to spend 78.5% of their gross earnings on child care costs.
- According to recent statistics, the parents end up spending nearly 20% of their annual earnings on daycare services. The financial impact childcare has on families in Pennsylvania is so severe that it keeps mothers out of work.
39. Rhode Island
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care services charge $13696 and toddler care services charge $12000 yearly in Rhode Island.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 121
- Avg number of students per center: 13
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Rhode Island’s demographics impact childcare?
The median household income in Rhode Island is just $5,360 per month.
- The people of Rhode Island will enjoy improved communication with their children’s teachers if they weren’t struggling to pay the daycare fee, with 21% of their yearly cash flow allocated towards childcare services.
- You can find information on how to apply for subsidized child care on the RI Department of Human Services website.
40. South Carolina
How much does daycare cost annually?
The average childcare charges $7007 for infant care and $6500 for toddler care yearly in South Carolina.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,516
- Avg number of students per center: 23
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do South Carolina’s demographics impact childcare?
- Although the US Human and Health Services advise that you shouldn’t pay more than 10% of a household’s budget, parents in South Carolina pay 20% of their annual cash flow to childcare services.
- The median household in the state earned $4,350 per month.
- The SC Voucher Program supports working parents in South Carolina. For more information on how to apply, visit http://scchildcare.us/apply/.
41. South Dakota
How much does daycare cost annually?
The financial burden on parents varies in South Dakota because the US state has different childcare models, with parents paying $6511 yearly for infant care and $5500 for toddler care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 381
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 5
How do South Dakota’s demographics impact childcare?
- The average earnings of a family in South Dakota are $37,574 annually.
- Women are paid much lesser, with their annual package being a paltry $30,772.
- They have to shell out 10-15% of their annual income for childcare services.
- The South Dakota Department of Social Services has plenty of resources for parents and child care providers. You can check out their website for valuable information.
42. Tennessee
How much does daycare cost annually?
Tennessee families pay $8732 annually for infant care. The costs for caring for preschool students is $6500/annum. Although it is slightly cheaper, it still makes a dent.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 3,784
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Tennessee’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median household in Tennessee earns just under $4,400 a month. In order to afford infant care for one child, you’d have to spend over 16% of your total income.
- If you’re a family of two minimum wage earners, as opposed to one, you’ll have to spend almost 30% on child care every month.
- The Tennessee Department for Children and Families helps connect parents with subsidy programs and daycare owners with assistance programs to streamline childcare budgets.
43. Texas
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare services in Texas are expensive compared to other states in the US. Parents shell out $9324 yearly for infant care and $8000/annum for toddler care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 11,535
- Avg number of students per center: 26
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Texas’s demographics impact childcare?
- Texas is the second most populous state. The median household in Texas earned $5,050 per month last year.
- With 20% of the population below the poverty line and households earning a median income of $63826 yearly, over 10% of earnings are directed towards childcare.
44. Utah
How much does daycare cost annually?
Childcare centers in Utah vary in cost depending on their staff experience and location, but on average, they charge $9945 yearly for infant care and $8200 annually for toddler care.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,531
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Utah’s demographics impact childcare?
- Every month, the average cost of infant care can be $1290 in the state of Utah. This means that a minimum wage worker would need to work 114 hours to pay for the average cost.
- Center-based childcares in Utah increased their pricing by 27% during COVID-19, making them inaccessible for nearly 20% of their population.
- If you need help paying for child care, visit the Utah Department of Workforce Services.
45. Vermont
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care services are priced at $12813 yearly and toddler care services cost $10400/year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 1,000
- Avg number of students per center: 13
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Vermont’s demographics impact childcare?
- The average annual wages of a Vermont resident are $54,084, with childcare taking away 23.7% of their earnings.
- If you’re a new parent and need help finding quality childcare, visit the Vermont Official State Website. You can use their resources to voice your concerns about childcare.
46. Virginia
How much does daycare cost annually?
The average yearly cost of childcare for infants is $14063 a year. On the other hand, the yearly cost of toddler care is $12780 a year.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 4,097
- Avg number of students per center: 20
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Virginia’s demographics impact childcare?
- Virginia’s low minimum wage and high child care costs are a significant challenge for parents who work for the minimum wage.
- According to the Economic Policy Institute, infant care takes up 18.2% of a median family’s earnings in Virginia.
- The Virginia Department of Social Services can assist you with information on child care assistance programs and resources.
47. Washington
How much does daycare cost annually?
The state average costs for childcare have risen from $14554 to $18237 annually after COVID-19.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,412
- Avg number of students per center: 15
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Washington’s demographics impact childcare?
-
Washington State has the highest minimum wage in the country at $13.50.
- Washington families spend 20% of their average mean income annually on childcare. Parents face fewer childcare choices as the costs continue to rise.
- If you’re a child care provider or parent in Washington State, the Department of Children, Youth and Families is here to help. The resources the Department provides include childcare subsidies from the Working Connections Child Care program.
48. West Virginia
How much does daycare cost annually?
The average annual cost of childcare for infants in West Virginia is $8736. For toddlers, it is $7600.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 674
- Avg number of students per center: 16
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do West Virginia’s demographics impact childcare?
- The average annual rate for infant childcare is 4% above the average in West Virginia, with families making $48037 yearly.
- Compared to the average housing rental rate, in-state college tuition, and other states, infant care in the Mountain State costs more now than it did a decade ago.
49. Wisconsin
How much does daycare cost annually?
Infant care in Wisconsin costs an average of $12567 yearly. Annual childcare for a four year old comes in at $10870.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 2,715
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Wisconsin’s demographics impact childcare?
- The median household in Wisconsin brings home an after-tax income of $5,060 per month. This means they would have to spend more than 20% of their total income – or $1,072 – to pay for one month of infant care in a center-based program.
- Because of far and few regulated childcare facilities in Wisconsin, people below poverty line are left out.
- Through the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, parents can learn more and apply for childcare subsidies.
50. Wyoming
How much does daycare cost annually?
Annual childcare for an infant comes with an annual price tag of $10647. For toddlers, it is $8756.
- Number of childcare centers (approx): 294
- Avg number of students per center: 18
- Avg number of educators per center: 4
How do Wyoming’s demographics impact childcare?
- Households in Wyoming earn approximately $40000 annually and spend nearly 22% of their total income to place a child in a center.
- The minimum wage here is $5.15 per hour, which is even lower than the federal minimum wage of $7.25.
- A minimum wage worker in this state earns just over $891 per month and would have to spend all of it to cover child care costs for one child.
Manage Childcare Costs With Illumine
Depending on the place where you live in the US, you may qualify for a variety of tax benefits and subsidies.
Childcare owners can set up a profitable business and maximize the value provided to parents by signing up on Illumine.
With our childcare management platform, you can automate fee reminders, manage billing, track attendance, and charge parents by the hour, week, or month. We also offer various payment options that parents can avail, like UPI, debit card, credit card, etc. for safe online childcare payments.
As a result, more parents will enroll their children with you, irrespective of the childcare costs by state, because you offer them ease, convenience, and efficiency – all in one powerful platform.
Spend 3x less time on manual bookkeeping and more time on caring for your students. Talk to an Illumine expert today to get a tailored childcare solution that caters to your childcare center’s unique needs.
