How Much Does Child Care Cost?
This guide covers typical US child care rates, the factors that change them, and practical ways to compare provider quotes.
Typical prices by job
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| School-age part-time care | Before or after school | $100 - $400 per week |
| Home daycare | Small-group family setting | $200 - $700 per week |
| Daycare center | Full-time group care | $250 - $1,200 per week |
| Infant center care | Full-time care for babies | $400 - $1,800 per week |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What affects the price
Infant care usually costs more because babies require closer supervision and lower child-to-caregiver ratios. Rates also rise for longer hours, meals, diapers, transportation, evening coverage, and care during holidays or school breaks. Licensed centers often charge differently from home-based providers, nannies, and preschool programs.
Location is a major factor: large cities and high-cost suburbs generally charge more than rural areas. A provider's licensing, experience, curriculum, facility, enrollment demand, and availability can also affect the quote.
How to pay less
Ask for the full weekly or monthly cost, including registration, supply, late-pickup, meal, and vacation fees. Compare the same schedule and services, and ask whether a sibling discount, employer benefit, tax credit, or flexible spending account can reduce your out-of-pocket cost.
Consider a licensed home daycare, shared care, or a schedule that matches your actual work hours instead of paying for unused time. Comparing two or three quotes from independently reviewed providers on Reedleys shows quickly whether a number is fair.
Cost questions
Many providers charge an application, enrollment, or registration fee and may require a deposit to hold a space. Ask whether the deposit is refundable and how it applies to your first payment.
Quotes can reflect different child ages, caregiver ratios, hours, licensing, meals, supplies, and location costs. Confirm that each provider is pricing the same schedule and included services.
Common extras include late pickup, early drop-off, transportation, holiday care, field trips, diapers, meals, and occasional care. Request a written fee schedule before enrolling.
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