Understanding Childcare Costs in California (2025): Prices, Assistance, and Grants

Are you curious about the average childcare costs in California or wondering what assistance is available to help ease the burden? With California being one of the most expensive states to live in, understanding childcare expenses and the financial support systems in place is crucial for parents and daycare providers alike.

Whether you’re looking for the average cost of care in CA or government programs to help with childcare, this blog covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

How Much Does Daycare Cost in California?

The average cost of care in CA is among the highest in the U.S., driven by a high cost of living and increasing operational costs for childcare centers.

‍Infant care in licensed childcare centers can cost around $16,000 annually, while care for preschool-aged children ranges between $12,000 and $14,000 annually. Families may spend as much as 20-30% of their annual income on childcare, highlighting the need for financial assistance.

Cost of Infant Care

Infant care typically requires higher fees due to the increased staff-to-child ratio needed for younger children. According to a report by the Economic Policy Institute, the average annual cost of infant care in California is approximately $8,925. Key points include:

• Average Monthly Cost: approximately $700
• Cost Range: From $800 to $2,500 per month, depending on the region and type of care (center-based vs. home-based).
• Cities with Highest Costs: San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

Cost of Daycare

Daycare centers provide care for children aged 0-5 and typically have structured educational programs. The costs can vary widely based on location and the quality of the facility.

• Average Monthly Cost: Approximately $1,200 to $2,000.
• Annual Cost: Roughly $14,000 to $24,000.

Cost of Nannies

Hiring a nanny can be a more personalized childcare option, but it also tends to be one of the most expensive forms of care.

• Average Hourly Rate: Between $15 to $30 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.
• Average Monthly Cost: If full-time, this can reach around $3,000 to $5,000.
• Additional Costs: Families may need to cover taxes and benefits for their nanny, increasing overall expenses.

Cost of Preschool

Preschool programs usually cater to children aged 3 to 5 and focus on preparing them for kindergarten. The costs can vary based on whether the program is public or private.

• Average Monthly Cost: Approximately $700 to $1,500.
• Annual Cost: Roughly $8,400 to $18,000.
• Types of Programs:
  • Public Preschools: Often lower costs due to state funding.
  • Private Preschools: These can be significantly higher, especially those with specialized curriculums.

For a detailed comparison of childcare costs across the country, including California, take a look at our Childcare Costs in the USA 2025:  A State-by-State Overview.

Causes of Increasing Childcare Costs in California

Several factors influence the average cost of childcare in California, making it a significant expense for many families. From caregiver qualifications to location and facility standards, these elements can vary widely and impact the price you pay for quality care. Understanding these factors can help parents make informed decisions when choosing the right childcare option for their little ones.

• High Cost of Living: In cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, the high cost of living leads to increased wages and real estate expenses for daycare centers, which are passed on to parents.
• Stringent Licensing Requirements: California’s strict regulations on staff-to-child ratios, safety standards, and facility maintenance result in higher operational costs for providers.
• Demand for Qualified Caregivers: Daycare centers are required to hire well-trained staff with certifications and ongoing professional development, driving up salaries and, in turn, childcare fees.
• Limited Availability: In certain areas, the limited number of childcare slots allows providers to charge premium rates, as demand exceeds supply.

Compare the cost of childcare in Ohio with other major states like New York, Florida, California, and Ohio, and explore the government assistance programs that can help families manage expenses.

Childcare Grants For Parents in California

Several programs and grants offer help with childcare in California, specifically aimed at reducing the financial burden for families.

California State Preschool Program (CSPP)

This one is a state-funded program offering free or low-cost preschool services to children aged 3 and 4 from low-income families. The goal is to prepare children for kindergarten by providing early education experiences that foster their cognitive, social, and emotional development.

CSPP is available in both full-day and part-day formats, depending on the family’s needs. In addition to educational services, the program often provides health and nutrition support to ensure children are well-prepared for their school years.

California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs)

CalWORKs provides temporary financial assistance to low-income families in California, with one major component being support for childcare. It ensures that families can afford childcare while parents pursue employment, education, or job training. The program is divided into three stages:

1. Stage 1: Offers immediate childcare for parents entering the CalWORKs program.
2. Stage 2: Supports families that have stabilized in their employment or training.
3. Stage 3: Provides long-term childcare assistance as families transition off cash aid.

To remain eligible, families must participate in work or educational activities, and they are required to meet income thresholds.

Alternative Payment Program (APP)

The Alternative Payment Program (APP) gives low-income families flexibility in selecting childcare. It offers subsidies to pay for childcare in licensed centers, family childcare homes, or even informal care settings.

Unlike other programs that may direct parents to specific centers, APP allows parents to choose their preferred childcare provider based on their unique needs. The program helps families afford childcare while they work, attend school, or complete training programs.

California Alternative Payment Program (CAPP)

CAPP offers families vouchers that can be used to pay for childcare services, providing flexibility and choice in selecting licensed providers. Like the APP, CAPP is aimed at low-income families needing support with childcare costs while engaging in work or educational activities. These vouchers can be used in both licensed childcare centers and approved family childcare homes.

Head Start and Early Head Start Programs

Federally funded, these programs are designed to promote the school readiness of children from birth to age 5 in low-income families. These programs offer free or low-cost early childhood education and development services, preparing children for school by focusing on cognitive, social, and emotional growth.

In addition to education, the programs provide meals, health screenings, and family support services. Early Head Start is geared towards infants and toddlers, while Head Start serves preschool-aged children.

California Childcare Assistance Program

This state-administered program helps low-income families with the cost of childcare by providing subsidies based on household income, family size, and other factors.

The program allows families to select their daycare provider, as long as the provider meets state licensing standards. It is designed to alleviate the financial burden of childcare so that parents can work or pursue educational opportunities.

Government Laws and Assistance Programs in California

In addition to grants, several laws and programs offer help with childcare in California:

Family Leave Rights

California offers some of the most comprehensive family leave policies in the United States. Under the California Family Rights Act (CFRA), parents are entitled to up to 12 weeks of job-protected leave for bonding with a new child or caring for a sick family member. This policy ensures that families have time to arrange appropriate childcare without risking their employment.

Paid Family Leave (PFL)

California’s Paid Family Leave (PFL) program provides up to eight weeks of partial wage replacement for parents who need time off to bond with a new child or care for a seriously ill family member. The program helps alleviate the financial pressure of taking time off from work, allowing parents to focus on their families without worrying about immediate childcare costs.

California Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R)

The California Child Care Resource & Referral (CCR&R) network is a valuable resource for families seeking affordable childcare options. CCR&R services connect families with local childcare providers, help them understand licensing standards, and provide information about available subsidies and grants in their area. This network ensures that families can find childcare that fits their needs and budget.

Childcare Costs in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of the most expensive cities in California, and its child care costs are a clear reflection of that reality. With a high cost of living, strict licensing regulations, and competitive wages for childcare professionals, many parents in Los Angeles find themselves spending a significant portion of their income—sometimes the equivalent of a second mortgage—on daycare, preschool, or nanny services.

• Infant Care: Families can expect to pay between $1,800 to $2,500 per month for center-based infant care, depending on the facility's location and services offered.
• Preschool (Ages 3–5): Monthly costs range from $1,200 to $2,000, influenced by factors such as program curriculum, staff qualifications, and facility amenities.
• Nanny Services: Hiring a full-time nanny in Los Angeles can cost between $3,500 to $5,500 per month, with rates varying based on experience, certifications, and additional responsibilities.

Childcare Costs in San Diego

In San Diego, a booming population and limited childcare availability have led to rapidly rising child care costs. For many parents, securing a reliable spot in a daycare center or preschool is not only difficult but also financially demanding—often the equivalent of paying an additional rent each month.

The imbalance between supply and demand allows providers to charge higher rates, especially in urban and coastal neighborhoods.

• Infant Care: The average cost for infant care in San Diego County is $1,620 per month.
• Preschool (Ages 3–5): Families typically pay between $1,000 to $1,800 per month, depending on the program's structure and location.
• Nanny Services: Full-time nanny care ranges from $3,200 to $5,000 per month, with rates influenced by the caregiver's experience and the family's specific needs.

Many families in San Diego seek assistance through programs like Head Start or state-subsidized childcare. However, income thresholds for these programs often exclude middle-income families, leaving many parents to shoulder the full cost of care.

What to Expect in the Next Three Years

With rising operational costs and a growing population, the cost of childcare in California is likely to continue increasing. However, state-funded programs such as California grants for low-income families and subsidies for daycare providers are expected to expand, offering more financial support to both families and providers.

Additionally, the push for universal preschool access and more comprehensive state-sponsored childcare programs will provide further relief for parents in the coming years.

Final Words

Understanding the childcare costs in California is essential for families navigating the high expenses associated with quality care. While prices continue to rise, there are numerous assistance programs, subsidies, and grants available to help reduce the financial burden for low-income families and daycare providers.

Whether you’re seeking daycare scholarships or looking for help with childcare, it’s crucial to be informed about your options. By leveraging available resources and programs, families can find affordable, high-quality care while ensuring their children receive the nurturing and education they deserve.

For more information on financial assistance and childcare resources, visit the California Department of Social Services and the California Department of Education websites.

FAQs

1. What is the average cost of childcare in California?

The average cost of childcare in California depends on age and provider type. Infant care in licensed centers averages around US$ 16,000 per year, while preschool ranges from US$ 12,000 to US$ 14,000.

Monthly daycare fees typically fall between US$ 1,200 and US$ 2,000, reaching US$ 2,500 in high-cost areas. For those wondering what is the average cost of childcare in California or the average cost of daycare in California, this range reflects statewide trends.

2. How much is daycare in California, and what does it cost per month?

Daycare costs in California vary by location and age group. Many parents ask how much is daycare in California or how much does a daycare cost per month. In cities like Los Angeles or San Diego, infant care may cost between US$ 1,800 and US$ 2,500 per month.

Home-based care may be slightly more affordable but often has limited availability. This variation explains why the day care cost in California remains a financial concern for families.

3. What are typical childcare costs per day in California?

For full-time infant care in urban areas, families may pay US$ 80 to US$ 100 in childcare costs per day. This reflects the cost of high-quality licensed care when broken down by daily rate — an important metric for those tracking short-term or part-time needs.

4. How much does preschool cost in California?

Preschool tuition in California ranges from US$ 700 to US$ 1,500 per month, or US$ 8,400 to US$ 18,000 annually. Whether you're asking how much does preschool cost in California or just exploring costs of childcare before kindergarten, the price depends on program type, location, and eligibility for public funding.

5. Why is child care in California so expensive?

Child care in California cost continues to rise due to high staffing wages, licensing standards, facility requirements, and limited supply. These pressures contribute to the overall costs of childcare, especially in cities like San Francisco and San Jose where demand consistently exceeds availability.