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 |
|---|---|---|
| Mother's helper | Care while an adult remains home | $10 - $18 per hour |
| Babysitter | Occasional care for one or two children | $15 - $30 per hour |
| Family child care | Small-group care in a provider's home | $800 - $2,000 per month |
| Day care center | Scheduled group care and activities | $1,000 - $2,500 per month |
| Nanny | Dedicated in-home care and household support | $20 - $40 per hour |
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 than care for older children because it requires closer supervision and lower child-to-adult ratios. Prices also rise for multiple children, special medical or developmental needs, transportation, meal preparation, light housekeeping, and late-night or weekend schedules.
Location matters: major cities and areas with high housing costs tend to charge more than smaller towns. Center care may cost less per hour than a one-child nanny, while a nanny offers more personal attention and schedule flexibility.
How to pay less
Ask about sibling discounts, enrollment fees, meals, supplies, late pickup charges, and holiday policies before comparing totals. Sharing a nanny, choosing part-time care, or using a licensed family child care home can reduce costs when the arrangement fits your schedule.
Get written quotes from several providers and confirm references, licensing, insurance, and background-check practices. Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to compare against these typical ranges.
Cost questions
Many centers and home providers charge an enrollment fee, registration payment, or deposit to reserve a place. Ask whether it is refundable and when the remaining balance is due.
Quotes may cover different hours, age groups, staffing ratios, meals, transportation, and services such as homework help or housekeeping. Compare the included care and policies, not just the headline rate.
Yes. Common additions include late pickup, holiday care, transportation, supplies, activity fees, and payment processing charges. Request a complete fee schedule before signing an agreement.
Recognized Child Care businesses
Child care and learning center in Lexington offering care, curriculum, and after-school services.
Play-based child care and early learning in Corpus Christi, with activities guided by children's curiosity.
Church-based child care in Pittsburgh, with care offered during select church programs and events.
Chicago nonprofit offering early education for children ages 0-5 and year-round youth programs for ages 5-17.
Chicago children's nursery and day care providing individualized care, play, feeding, naps, and early education.
Chicago children's nursery and day care offering individualized care and early education for infants and young children.
Chicago child care center offering educational programs for children, including infant and toddler care, preschool, and summer camp.
Chicago child care and early learning center for children from 6 weeks to 6 years, with two locations.
A Chicago early learning center with infant, toddler, preschool, and pre-kindergarten programs.
A South Loop childcare center in Chicago offering individualized care and learning experiences for children.