The cost of daycare is a significant expense for many families. Understanding these costs and the factors that influence them is crucial for budgeting and making informed decisions about your child’s care. So, How Much Is Daycare A Week? Let’s break down the expenses.
Average Child Care & Daycare Costs
On average, you can expect to pay $100 to $350 per week for center-based daycare programs. However, this figure can vary widely based on several factors, including the child’s age and the type of care you choose. The average monthly cost ranges from $400 to $1,500.
Here’s a general breakdown of weekly and monthly child care costs by type:
| Care Type | Average Cost Per Week | Average Cost Per Month |
|---|---|---|
| Infant Daycare Center | $150 – $350 | $650 – $1,500 |
| Toddler and Preschool Center | $125 – $250 | $550 – $1,100 |
| In-Home Family Care Center | $125 – $225 | $540 – $1,000 |
| Preschool | $100 – $325 | $400 – $1,300 |
| Center-Based Before & After-School | $40 – $125 | $150 – $500 |
| Babysitter | $500 – $800 | $2,200 – $3,400 |
| Part-Time Nanny (20 hours/week) | $240 – $480 | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Full-Time Nanny (35-40 hours/week) | $525 – $1,000 | $2,300 – $4,300 |
Daycare Costs: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, & Annually
Daycare costs are often segmented by age, reflecting the varying levels of care required. Infants generally require more attention and resources, making their care more expensive compared to toddlers or preschoolers.
| Child’s Age | Per Day | Per Week | Per Month | Per Year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (1 to 18 months) | $30 – $70 | $150 – $350 | $650 – $1,500 | $7,800 – $18,000 |
| Toddler (18 months to 3 years) | $25 – $50 | $125 – $250 | $550 – $1,100 | $6,600 – $13,000 |
| Preschool (3 to 5 years) | $20 – $65 | $100 – $325 | $400 – $1,300 | $4,000 – $13,000 (Sept – June) |
Understanding Monthly Daycare Costs
On average, monthly daycare costs can range from $550 to $1,500 for infants and toddlers. Preschool programs for children aged 3 to 5 typically cost between $400 and $1,300 per month. For school-aged children needing care before and after school, the cost is roughly $150 to $500 monthly.
Weekly Daycare Costs Explained
If you’re looking at full-time care, anticipate spending $125 to $350 per week. Part-time options can range from $50 to $140 per week for two days or $75 to $210 per week for three days. Keep in mind that commercial centers might have different part-time rate policies than home-based setups.
| Days per week | Family Child Care Center | Commercial Child Care Center |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time 2 days per week | $50 – $90 per week | $50 – $140 per week |
| Part-time 3 days per week | $75 – $135 per week | $75 – $210 per week |
| Full-time 4-5 days per week | $125 – $225 per week | $125 – $350 per week |
Daily Daycare Costs
Daily rates at daycare centers range from $20 to $70. Home-based family care centers may offer more flexible scheduling at $25 to $45 per day.
Annual Daycare Costs
Annually, most families can expect to spend between $5,000 and $18,000 on daycare for one child. Many centers offer a discount, often around 10%, for each additional child.
| Number of Children | Average Annual Daycare Costs |
|---|---|
| 1 | $5,000 – $18,000 per year |
| 2 | $9,500 – $34,000 per year |
| 3 | $14,000 – $50,000 per year |
Breaking Down Child Care Costs by Type
Infant Daycare Expenses
Infant daycare typically runs $150 to $350 per week. Due to the intensive care needed for infants aged 6 weeks to 18 months, staffing ratios are tighter, increasing costs.
| Days per week | Infant Child Care Center |
|---|---|
| Part-time 2 days per week | $60 – $140 per week |
| Part-time 3 days per week | $90 – $210 per week |
| Full-time 4-5 days per week | $150 – $350 per week |
Toddler and Preschool Child Care Costs
Care for toddlers aged 18 months to 3 years averages $125 to $250 per week. Preschool care for children aged 3 to 5 ranges from $100 to $325 per week.
In-Home Child Care Rates
In-home daycare averages $125 to $225 per week for one child. These providers typically care for fewer children, offering a more personalized environment.
Nanny Costs
A full-time nanny costs $525 to $1,000 per week, while a live-in nanny can cost $700 to $1,200 per week, plus room and board.
Preschool Expenses
Preschool programs average $400 to $1,300 per month. Some states offer free programs for eligible families.
After-School Care Program Expenses
After-school programs range from $140 to $400 per month for public school programs and $280 to $750 per month at daycare centers.
Babysitter Prices
Babysitters generally charge $14 to $20 per hour for one child, with an additional $1 to $3 per hour for each extra child.
What Factors Influence Daycare Rates & Fees?
Several elements contribute to the overall cost of daycare:
- Child’s Age: Younger children need more attention, increasing costs.
- Number of Children: Discounts are often available for multiple children.
- Location: Higher cost-of-living areas typically have higher rates.
- Quality of Care: Accredited centers usually charge more.
- Hours: Full-time, part-time, and extended hours affect prices.
Children participate in an arts and crafts activity, showcasing a stimulating daycare environment.
Additional Daycare Fees to Consider
Be aware of extra costs like:
- Application/Registration Fees: $50 to $125
- Supply Fees: $50 to $200 annually
- Penalty Fees: Late pick-up or payment fees
Saving Money on Child Care: Tips & Strategies
To reduce child care costs, consider:
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) through your employer
- Non-profit centers like church programs or YMCAs
- Home-based family daycare centers
- Co-ops with other parents
Daycare Tax Deductions: What You Need to Know
You can deduct a portion of child care costs using the federal Child and Dependent Care tax credit, capped at $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for multiple children.
What to Expect When Daycares Close
Daycares may still charge when closed for vacation or emergencies, but you might be able to negotiate a reduced rate to hold your child’s spot.
Accessibility of Quality Child Care
Affordable child care is a challenge for many families, with costs often exceeding the government’s benchmark of 7% of annual household income.
Finding and Hiring a Daycare: Important Tips
When choosing a daycare:
- Get referrals from trusted sources
- Look for licensed daycares
- Read online reviews
- Tour facilities in person
- Check class sizes and teacher-child ratios
- Ensure enriching activities and outdoor play
- Ask for references
Essential Questions to Ask
- Licensing and accreditation status?
- Teacher qualifications and training?
- Class size and student-teacher ratio?
- Hours and rates?
- Discipline methods?
- Potty-training assistance?
- Time spent in free play and outdoors?
- Meals and snacks provided?
- Allergy protocols?
- Enrichment programs offered?
- Kindergarten preparation?
Understanding how much is daycare a week and what factors influence the overall cost can empower you to make the best choice for your family’s needs and budget.
