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True Cost of Child Care by State (Updated December 2023)

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Child Care is essential for the social and economic well-being of parents, children, providers, and our communities. It provides the opportunity for parents to work or improve their skills with training, it gives children the educational foundation in which to nurture and grow, and it creates a vibrant workforce that helps bolster our economy.

Knowing and understanding the different costs of Child Care in America is vital for both parents and providers. This guide will help you understand the difference between states for Child Care pricing and how much an average family would need to spend on Child Care annually. It also includes information on income eligibility limits for each state which represents the maximum income families can have when they apply for Child Care assistance.

This blog shares the price of Child Care in every state, based on data collected from 2023. In every state description you will find information about:

  • Average cost of Child Care for infants and children above 4 years old
  • Affordability of Child Care for the average worker
  • Comparison between Child Care and rent prices
  • Just how much would a family need to spend from its income to pay for Child Care
  • Income eligibility limits for Child Care assistance

The states are in alphabetical order, find your state and compare it to others:

Alabama

 Alabama

In Alabama the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $6,001, which comes out to $500/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $5,200 or $433/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Alabama?

For a family with two children – a 4-year-old and an infant – it would cost them $11,200 annually just for Child Care. That is 18% more than the median rent in Alabama. Thus, a family in Alabama must spend 22.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of June 2021, the income limit to apply for assistance was $39,096 (180% of the federal poverty level).

Find Child Care in Alabama.

Alaska

Alaska

In Alaska the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,120, which comes out to $1,010/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,087 or $841/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Alaska?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $22,207 annually just for Child Care. That is 34% more than the median rent in Alaska. Thus, a family in Alaska must spend 31% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

The Alaska Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD) payment, which most families in the state receive, is not counted when determining eligibility.

Arizona

Arizona

In Arizona the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $10,948, which comes out to $912/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,547 or $712/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Arizona?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $19,495 annually just for Child Care. That is 39% more than the median rent in Arizona. Thus, a family in Arizona must spend 35.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to apply for assistance was $36,240 (165% of the federal poverty level).

Find Child Care in Arizona.

Arkansas

Arkansas

In Arkansas the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $6,890, which comes out to $574/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $5,478 or $457/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Arkansas?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $12,368 annually just for Child Care. That is 29.5% more than the median rent in Arkansas. Thus, a family in Arkansas must spend 26.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

The stated income limit, in policy, was $22,323 in 2001. The state no longer used the deduction in 2020 or 2021.

Find Child Care in Arkansas.

California

California

In California the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $16,945, which comes out to $1,412/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $11,475 or $956/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in California?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $28,420 annually just for Child Care. That is 41.3% more than the median rent in California. Thus, a family in California must spend 41.8% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $78,135 (85 percent of state median income).

Find Child Care in California.

Colorado

Colorado

In Colorado the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $15,325, which comes out to $1,277/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $12,390 or $1,032/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Colorado?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $27,715 annually just for Child Care. That is 50.1% more than the median rent in Colorado. Thus, a family in Colorado must spend 37.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limits to apply for assistance was $40,626 (185% of the poverty levels).

Find Child Care in Colorado.

Connecticut

Connecticut

In Connecticut the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $15,501, which comes out to $1,292/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $12,731 or $1,061/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Connecticut?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $28,232 annually just for Child Care. That is 51.1% more than the median rent in Connecticut. Thus, a family in Connecticut must spend 33.3% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limits to apply for assistance was $68,298 (65% of state median income).

Find Child Care in Connecticut.

Washington, DC

Washington DC

In Washington, DC the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $24,243, which comes out to $2,020/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $19,112 or $1,593/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Washington, DC?

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $43,355 annually just for Child Care. That is 59.6% more than the median rent in Washington, DC. Thus, a family in Washington, DC must spend 51.1% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, the exit eligibility limit was $75,094 (85% of state median income).

Delaware

Delaware

In Delaware the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $11,021, which comes out to $918/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,876 or $740/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Delaware?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $19,897 annually just for Child Care. That is 33.5% more than the median rent in Delaware. Thus, a family in Delaware must spend 28.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $40,632 (185% of poverty).

Florida

Florida

In Florida the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,238, which comes out to $770/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,282 or $607/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Florida?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $16,520 annually just for Child Care. That is 19.9% more than the median rent in Florida. Thus, a family in Florida must spend 30.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $32,940 (150% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Florida.

Georgia

Georgia

In Georgia the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $8,530, which comes out to $711/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,306 or $609/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Georgia?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $15,836 annually just for Child Care. That is 28% more than the median rent in Georgia. Thus, a family in Georgia must spend 28.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $35,638 (50% of state median income).

Find Child Care in Georgia.

Hawaii

Hawaii

In Hawaii the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $13,731, which comes out to $1,144/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,937 or $745/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Hawaii?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $22,667 annually just for Child Care. That is 18.3% more than the median rent in Hawaii. Thus, a family in Hawaii must spend 26.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of August 2021, the income limit was $70,404 (85% of state median income).

Idaho

Idaho

In Idaho the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $7,474, which comes out to $623/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,454 or $538/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Idaho?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $13,927 annually just for Child Care. That is 30.1% more than the median rent in Idaho. Thus, a family in Idaho must spend 24.8% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $31,848 (145% of poverty).

Illinois

Illinois

In Illinois the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $13,802, which comes out to $1,150/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,372 or $864/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Illinois?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $24,174 annually just for Child Care. That is 51.6% more than the median rent in Illinois. Thus, a family in Illinois must spend 35.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Illinois.

Indiana

In Indiana the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,612, which comes out to $1,051/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $9,557 or $796/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Indiana?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $22,170 annually just for Child Care. That is 56.6% more than the median rent in Indiana. Thus, a family in Indiana must spend 38.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of March 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $27,888 (127 percent of poverty).

Iowa

Iowa

In Iowa the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $10,378, which comes out to $865/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,633 or $719/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Iowa?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $19,011 annually just for Child Care. That is 52.2% more than the median rent in Iowa. Thus, a family in Iowa must spend 28% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $31,848 (145% of poverty).

Kansas

Kansas

In Kansas the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $11,222, which comes out to $935/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,798 or $733/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Kansas?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $20,020 annually just for Child Care. That is 50.8% more than the median rent in Kansas. Thus, a family in Kansas must spend 32.3% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of April 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $40,632 (185% of poverty).

Kentucky

Kentucky

In Kentucky the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $6,411, which comes out to $534/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,411 or $534/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Kentucky?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $12,821 annually just for Child Care. That is 31.6% more than the median rent in Kentucky. Thus, a family in Kentucky must spend 23.8% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, the exit eligibility limit was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

Louisiana

Lousiana

In Louisiana the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $7,724, which comes out to $644/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,906 or $576/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Louisiana?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $14,630 annually just for Child Care. That is 30.7% more than the median rent in Louisiana. Thus, a family in Louisiana must spend 27.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, the exit eligibility limit was $56,736 (85 percent of state median income).

Maine

Maine

In Maine the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,449, which comes out to $787/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,292 or $691/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Maine?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,741 annually just for Child Care. That is 44% more than the median rent in Maine. Thus, a family in Maine must spend 28.3% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

Maryland

Maryland

In Maryland the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $15,335, which comes out to $1,278/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,254 or $855/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Maryland?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $25,589 annually just for Child Care. That is 37% more than the median rent in Maryland. Thus, a family in Maryland must spend 29.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2020 and 2021, families already receiving assistance could continue doing so until their income reached $78,013 (85% of state median income).

Massachusetts

Massachusetts

In Massachusetts the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $20,913, which comes out to $1,743/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $15,095 or $1,258/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Massachusetts?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $36,008 annually just for Child Care. That is 60% more than the median rent in Massachusetts. Thus, a family in Massachusetts must spend 39.1% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $55,126 (50% of state median income)

Michigan

Michigan

In Michigan the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $10,861, which comes out to $905/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,890 or $741/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Michigan?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $19,751 annually just for Child Care. That is 48.7% more than the median rent in Michigan. Thus, a family in Michigan must spend 34.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?
As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $40,632 (185% of poverty).

Minnesota

Minnesota

In Minnesota the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $16,087, which comes out to $1,341/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $12,252 or $1,021/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Minnesota?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $28,338 annually just for Child Care. That is 60.7% more than the median rent in Minnesota. Thus, a family in Minnesota must spend 37.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $44,589 (47% of state median income).

Find Child Care in Minnesota.

Mississippi

Mississippi

In Mississippi the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $5,436, which comes out to $453/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $4,784 or $399/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Mississippi?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $10,220 annually just for Child Care. That is 11% more than the median rent in Mississippi. Thus, a family in Mississippi must spend 21.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of November 2021, the income limit was $48,999 (85 percent of state median income).

Missouri

Missouri

In Missouri the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $10,041, which comes out to $837/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,014 or $584/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Missouri?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,055 annually just for Child Care. That is 43.5% more than the median rent in Missouri. Thus, a family in Missouri must spend 29.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of May 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $30,300 (138% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Missouri.

Montana

Montana

In Montana the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,518, which comes out to $793/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,365 or $697/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Montana?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,883 annually just for Child Care. That is 48.4% more than the median rent in Montana. Thus, a family in Montana must spend 30.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of June 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $40,632 (185% of poverty).

Nebraska

Nebraska

In Nebraska the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,571, which comes out to $1,048/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $11,420 or $952/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Nebraska?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $23,991 annually just for Child Care. That is 60.4% more than the median rent in Nebraska. Thus, a family in Nebraska must spend 36.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $40,632 (185% of poverty).

Nevada

Nevada

In Nevada the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $11,408, which comes out to $951/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $9,050 or $754/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Nevada?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $20,459 annually just for Child Care. That is 38.9% more than the median rent in Nevada. Thus, a family in Nevada must spend 35.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $28,548 (130% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Nevada.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire

In New Hampshire the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,791, which comes out to $1,066/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,348 or $862/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in New Hampshire?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $23,140 annually just for Child Care. That is 44.1% more than the median rent in New Hampshire. Thus, a family in New Hampshire must spend 27.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $48,312 (220% of poverty).

New Jersey

New Jersey

In New Jersey the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,988, which comes out to $1,082/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,855 or $905/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in New Jersey?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $23,843 annually just for Child Care. That is 35.6% more than the median rent in New Jersey. Thus, a family in New Jersey must spend 26.8% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of March 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

New Mexico

New Mexico

In New Mexico the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $8,617, which comes out to $718/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,609 or $634/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in New Mexico?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $16,226 annually just for Child Care. That is 38.7% more than the median rent in New Mexico. Thus, a family in New Mexico must spend 34.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of April 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

New York

New York

In New York the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $15,394, which comes out to $1,283/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $12,358 or $1,030/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in New York?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $27,752 annually just for Child Care. That is 47.1% more than the median rent in New York. Thus, a family in New York must spend 39.8% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of June 2021, the income limit was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

Find Child Care in New York.

North Carolina

North Carolina

In North Carolina the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,480, which comes out to $790/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,113 or $676/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in North Carolina?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,593 annually just for Child Care. That is 41% more than the median rent in North Carolina. Thus, a family in North Carolina must spend 33% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of July 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

North Dakota

North Dakota

In North Dakota the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,091, which comes out to $758/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $8,221 or $685/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in North Dakota?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,312 annually just for Child Care. That is 45% more than the median rent in North Dakota. Thus, a family in North Dakota must spend 24% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $52,464 (60% of state median income).

Ohio

Ohio

In Ohio the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,697, which comes out to $808/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,895 or $658/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Ohio?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,592 annually just for Child Care. That is 46.5% more than the median rent in Ohio. Thus, a family in Ohio must spend 30.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $32,940 (150% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Ohio.

Oklahoma

Oklahoma

In Oklahoma the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $8,576, which comes out to $715/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,605 or $550/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Oklahoma?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $15,181 annually just for Child Care. That is 38% more than the median rent in Oklahoma. Thus, a family in Oklahoma must spend 28.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit was $54,360 (85% of state median income).

Oregon

Oregon

In Oregon the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $13,616, which comes out to $1,135/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,061 or $838/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Oregon?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $23,677 annually just for Child Care. That is 48.7% more than the median rent in Oregon. Thus, a family in Oregon must spend 38.5% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of January 2023, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $11,842, which comes out to $987/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $9,773 or $814/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Pennsylvania?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $21,614 annually just for Child Care. That is 49.7% more than the median rent in Pennsylvania. Thus, a family in Pennsylvania must spend 31.9% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of May 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

Find Child Care in Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island

Rhode Island

In Rhode Island the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $13,696, which comes out to $1,141/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,687 or $891/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Rhode Island?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $24,383 annually just for Child Care. That is 51.8% more than the median rent in Rhode Island. Thus, a family in Rhode Island must spend 36.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of April 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $39,528 (180% of poverty).

South Carolina

South Carolina

In South Carolina the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $7,007, which comes out to $584/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,006 or $500/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in South Carolina?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $13,013 annually just for Child Care. That is 21% more than the median rent in South Carolina. Thus, a family in South Carolina must spend 25% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of March 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $65,880 (300% of poverty).

South Dakota

South Dakota

In South Dakota the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $6,511, which comes out to $543/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $6,349 or $529/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in South Dakota?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $12,860 annually just for Child Care. That is 33.5% more than the median rent in South Dakota. Thus, a family in South Dakota must spend 20.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of March 2021, the stated income limit to qualify for assistance was $45,900 (209% of poverty).

Tennessee 

Tennessee

In Tennessee the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $8,732, which comes out to $728/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,468 or $622/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Tennessee?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $16,199 annually just for Child Care. That is 38.7% more than the median rent in Tennessee. Thus, a family in Tennessee must spend 31% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance for other families was $40,704 (60% of state median income).

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Texas

Texas

In Texas the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,324, which comes out to $777/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,062 or $589/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Texas?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $16,386 annually just for Child Care. That is 28.6% more than the median rent in Texas. Thus, a family in Texas must spend 27.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the exit eligibility limit was $60,972 (85% of state median income).

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Utah

Utah

In Utah the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $9,945, which comes out to $829/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,646 or $637/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Utah?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $17,591 annually just for Child Care. That is 33.8% more than the median rent in Utah. Thus, a family in Utah must spend 24.7% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of October 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $61,176.

Vermont

Vermont

In Vermont the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,812, which comes out to $1,068/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $11,717 or $976/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Vermont?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $24,529 annually just for Child Care. That is 52.6% more than the median rent in Vermont. Thus, a family in Vermont must spend 35.1% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, the exit eligibility limit was $67,320 (85% of state median income).

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Virginia

Virginia

In Virginia the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $14,063, which comes out to $1,172 /month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,867 or $906/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Virginia?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $24,929 annually just for Child Care. That is 42.5% more than the median rent in Virginia. Thus, a family in Virginia must spend 32.2% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, the statewide exit eligibility limit was $74,712 (85% of state median income).

Washington

Washington

In Washington the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $14,554, which comes out to $1,213 /month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $11,051 or $921/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Washington?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $25,605 annually just for Child Care. That is 46.2% more than the median rent in Washington. Thus, a family in Washington must spend 35.5% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of April 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $43,920 (200% of poverty).

West Virginia

West Virginia

In West Virginia the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $8,736, which comes out to $728 /month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $7,644 or $637/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in West Virginia?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $16,380 annually just for Child Care. That is 48.9% more than the median rent in West Virginia. Thus, a family in West Virginia must spend 32% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

In 2021, families already receiving assistance could continue doing so until their income reached $39,456.

Wisconsin

Wisconsin

In Wisconsin the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $12,567, which comes out to $1,047 /month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,197 or $850/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Wisconsin?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $22,764 annually just for Child Care. That is 56.1% more than the median rent in Wisconsin. Thus, a family in Wisconsin must spend 33.6% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

in 2021, the income limit to qualify for assistance was $68,382 (85 percent of state median income).

Wyoming

Wyoming

In Wyoming the average cost of infant Child Care annually is $10,647, which comes out to $887/month. Meanwhile the cost for Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $9,009 or $751/month.

How Affordable is Child Care in Wyoming?  

A family with two children, a 4-year-old, and an infant, it would cost them $19,657 annually just for Child Care. That is 48.2% more than the median rent in Wyoming. Thus, a family in Wyoming must spend 27.4% of its income on Child Care, for a 4-year-old and an infant.

What is the Income Eligibility Limit for Child Care Assistance?

As of April 2021, the stated income limit to qualify for assistance was $38,436 (175% of poverty).

Based on data from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), for Child Care to be affordable it needs to cost no more than 7% of a gross family income. According to the information collected below, there are NO states where Child Care meets the affordability rate set by HHS, making Child Care unaffordable for many people across America.

TOOTRiS continues to proactively engage with parents, providers, and government agencies to champion.

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