From cradle to preschool: The American dream now comes with a hefty price tag.
Source – Morning Brew
Childcare in the United States is a vital resource for families, providing a safe and nurturing environment for children to learn and grow while parents focus on their careers. However, in a country often hailed as the land of opportunity, the rising costs of childcare have emerged as a significant obstacle for families trying to balance work and home life.
The average cost of childcare in the USA for infants ranges from $400 to $1,500 per month. This substantial expense is putting a strain on household budgets, forcing parents to make tough decisions about their careers, family planning, and financial future.
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.
In this article, we’ll explore how much daycare costs in the USA, looking at variations between states, the factors influencing these costs, and the impact on families. Whether you’re looking for the most affordable options or identifying where parents face the steepest challenges, we’ve got you covered.
What are the average childcare costs in the USA?
The average childcare costs in the USA vary depending on the type of care, location, and age of the child. According to the National Database of Childcare Prices (NDCP), the median annual cost of care for a single child can require up to 19.3% of a family’s income. This substantial percentage underscores the financial burden that childcare can place on families, making it crucial for parents to carefully consider their options and budget accordingly.
Childcare Costs Across All 54 States
Wondering how much is daycare in the different states of the USA? It can be a rollercoaster ride for parents’ wallets. The cost of childcare by state varies dramatically depending on where you live. While some states offer more affordable options, others can feel like a financial black hole. Understand it like this:
- Coastal Capitals: Cities like San Francisco and New York City are known for their sky-high daycare rates – think of them as the luxury resorts of the childcare world.
- Heartland Bargains: States in the Midwest often have more reasonable rates. Imagine finding a hidden gem of affordable care.
- Rural Retreats: Smaller towns and rural areas might offer cheaper options, but availability and quality vary.
Below is a brief overview of average daycare costs across all 54 states.
Source:
Child Care at a Standstill: Price and Landscape Analysis
Child care costs in the United States
1. Alabama
How much does daycare cost annually in Alabama?
- Average Annual Cost: $6,000 – $7,000
- Details:
- One of the most affordable states for childcare.
- Many rural areas offer lower costs compared to urban centers like Birmingham.
- Families often rely on informal care due to limited access to licensed centers.
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 in Alaska?
- Average Annual Cost: $12,000 – $13,500
- Details:
- Higher costs due to the state’s remote location and a limited number of childcare centers.
- Childcare availability is concentrated in urban areas like Anchorage and Fairbanks.
- Additional costs for transportation in rural areas.
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 in Arizona?
- Average Annual Cost: $10,500 – $12,000
- Details:
- Higher childcare costs in cities like Phoenix and Tucson.
- A growing population has led to increased demand for licensed childcare centers.
- Availability of government grants and subsidies to help offset costs.
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 in Arkansas?
- Average Annual Cost: $6,500 – $8,000
- Details:
- Affordable childcare options, especially in rural areas.
- The low cost of living keeps childcare rates below the national average.
- Limited options for high-quality, licensed childcare centers in certain regions.
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 in California?
The Golden State ranks number 4 for childcare costs in the US.
- Average Annual Cost: $16,000 – $20,000
- Details:
- Among the most expensive states for childcare, especially in cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco.
- High demand for childcare centers due to a large working population.
- Subsidized childcare options are available but with long waiting lists.
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 in Colorado?
- Average Annual Cost: $15,000 – $16,000
- Details:
- High costs in urban areas like Denver and Boulder.
- Increased focus on early childhood education programs driving up demand and costs.
- State subsidies are available but not sufficient to cover all families in need.
How do Colorado’s demographics impact childcare?
- Colorado ranks as the fifth costliest state for childcare
- 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 in Connecticut?
- Average Annual Cost: $15,000 – $18,000
- Details:
- Childcare costs are higher than the national average.
- Demand for high-quality early childhood programs is increasing.
- Suburban areas are more affordable compared to cities like Hartford.
How do Connecticut’s demographics impact childcare?
- 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 in Delaware?
- Average Annual Cost: $9,000 – $11,000
- Details:
- Affordable compared to neighboring states like Maryland.
- Demand for licensed centers is growing, especially in urban areas.
- Limited availability of flexible care options.
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 in Florida?
- Average Annual Cost: $9,000 – $10,500
- Details:
- Costs vary significantly between urban centers like Miami and smaller cities.
- Many families rely on family-based childcare options.
- State-funded programs offer limited assistance to low-income families.
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 in Georgia?
- Average Annual Cost: $8,500 – $10,000
- Details:
- Increasing costs due to a growing population in cities like Atlanta.
- High demand for licensed centers, though rural areas still offer more affordable options.
- The availability of state-run early education programs helps offset costs.
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 in Hawai?
- Average Annual Cost: $13,000 – $14,500
- Details:
- The remote location and high cost of living drive up childcare expenses.
- Limited childcare options, particularly outside urban areas like Honolulu.
- Few subsidies are available for middle-income families.
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 Idaho?
- Average Annual Cost: $7,000 – $8,500
- Details:
- Lower-than-average childcare costs, especially in rural areas.
- Growing demand in cities like Boise as population increases.
- Limited availability of licensed centers in some regions.
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.
- How much does daycare cost annually in Idaho?
- In Idaho, the average annual cost of daycare for an infant is around $6,444, which is lower than the national average. Idaho is considered one of the more affordable states for childcare, making it a more accessible option for families. The lower cost of living in Idaho, along with a growing number of childcare centers, helps keep these expenses manageable for parents. This affordability can provide significant relief for families, allowing them to allocate their income to other essential needs and savings.
13. Illinois
How much does daycare cost annually Illinois?
- Average Annual Cost: $13,000 – $15,000
- Details:
- High costs in urban areas like Chicago, though suburban regions are more affordable.
- Increased focus on early childhood education contributes to rising costs.
- State subsidies are available but competitive to secure.
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 in Indiana?
- Average Annual Cost: $12,000 – $13,500
- Details:
- More affordable childcare compared to neighboring states.
- Higher costs in urban centers like Indianapolis.
- Limited availability of flexible care options for working parents.
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 in Iowa?
- Average Annual Cost: $9,000 – $10,500
- Details:
- Affordable childcare, particularly in rural regions.
- State-funded programs assist low-income families.
- Demand for licensed centers growing in cities like Des Moines.
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 Kansas?
- Average Annual Cost: $10,500 – $12,000
- Details:
- Childcare costs vary widely between rural and urban areas.
- Higher costs in growing cities like Wichita.
- Few state programs are available to help with childcare expenses.
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 amounted to $84,830 in 2023.
- 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 in Kentucky ?
- Average Annual Cost: $6,300 – $8,500
- Details:
- Affordable childcare in rural areas, though urban centers like Louisville are more expensive.
- Limited availability of licensed childcare centers in certain regions.
- The state offers subsidies for low-income families.
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 in Louisiana?
- Average Annual Cost: $7,500 – $9,500
- Details:
- Costs are rising, particularly in urban areas like New Orleans.
- Limited access to high-quality, licensed childcare centers.
- State-funded programs are available for low-income families.
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 in Maine?
- Average Annual Cost: $9,000 – $12,000
- Details:
- Higher costs due to the state’s remote location and a limited number of childcare centers.
- Demand for childcare is concentrated in urban areas like Portland.
- Rural regions offer fewer licensed options.
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 in Maryland?
- Average Annual Cost: $14,000 – $17,000
- Details:
- One of the more expensive states for childcare, particularly in urban areas like Baltimore.
- High demand for quality centers, driving up costs.
- Subsidies are available but not sufficient to cover the majority of families.
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 in Massachusetts?
- Average Annual Cost: $18,000 – $20,000
- Details:
- Among the most expensive states for childcare, particularly in Boston.
- High demand for early childhood education programs.
- Some subsidies are available, but waiting lists are long.
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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 4,440
Average number of students per center: 18
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,782
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,303
Average number of students per center: 25
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,997
Average number of students per center: 16
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 322
Average number of students per center: 22
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,165
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 359
Average number of students per center: 13
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 765
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,238
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,265
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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
Source: Pexels
Alt text: childcare-costs-by-state-illumine-new-york-child-walking
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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 5,589
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 4,456
Average number of students per center: 25
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,352
Average number of students per center: 18
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 6,485
Average number of students per center: 18
Average 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
Source: Pexels
Alt text: childcare-costs-by-state-illumine-oklahoma-child-walking-by-lake
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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,779
Average number of students per center: 20
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 2,419
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 6,151
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 121
Average number of students per center: 13
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,516
Average number of students per center: 23
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 381
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 3,784
Average number of students per center: 20
Average 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
Source: Pexels
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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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 11,535
Average number of students per center: 26
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,531
Average number of students per center: 20
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 1,000
Average number of students per center: 13
Average 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
Source: Pexels
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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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 4,097
Average number of students per center: 20
Average 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
Source: Pexels
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How much does daycare cost annually?
The state average costs for childcare have risen from $14554 to $18237 annually after COVID-19.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 2,412
Average number of students per center: 15
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 674
Average number of students per center: 16
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 2,715
Average number of students per center: 18
Average 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.
Approximate number of childcare centers: 294
Average number of students per center: 18
Average 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 by booking a demo with Illumine today.
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