Cost of Child Care in Maryland: A Breakdown for 2023

If you’re a parent or guardian in Maryland, you’re likely aware of how expensive Child Care can be. In 2023, the cost of Child Care in Maryland continues to be a significant financial burden for many families. The high cost can make it difficult for parents to work, attend school, or pursue other activities that require them to be away from their children.

According to a report by Maryland Family Network, the demand for Child Care in Maryland continues to exceed the supply, resulting in high costs for families. The report breaks down statewide information about the demand, supply, and cost of Child Care. In response to the issues causing widespread Child Care program closures, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocated $38.9 billion in supplemental funding for states through the Child Care and Development Block Grant. This funding will help support Child Care programs in Maryland and make Child Care more affordable for families.

Average Cost of Child Care in Maryland

If you are a parent in Maryland, you may be wondering how much Child Care will cost you. According to the Economic Policy Institute the average annual cost of infant care in Maryland is $15,335—that’s $1,278 per month and Child Care for a 4-year-old costs $10,254, or $855 each month.

It is important to keep in mind that these are just averages, and the actual cost of Child Care can vary depending on several factors, including the location, type of care, and age of the child. For example, infant care tends to be more expensive than care for older children.

Additionally, the cost of Child Care can be affected by the provider’s qualifications, experience, and the quality of care they offer. It is important to do your research and choose a provider that meets your family’s needs and budget.

If you are struggling to afford Child Care, there are several programs and resources available in Maryland that can help. For example, the Maryland Child Care Subsidy Program provides financial assistance to eligible families to help cover the cost of Child Care.

Overall, the cost can be significant, but with some research and planning, you can find a provider that fits your budget and provides quality care for your child.

Factors Affecting Child Care Costs

When it comes to Child Care costs in Maryland, there are several factors that can affect how much you can expect to pay. Here are some of the key factors that can impact the cost of care:

Age of Child
The age of your child can have a significant impact on the cost of Child Care. Generally, infant care tends to be more expensive than care for older children. This is because infants require more one-on-one attention and care, which can be more time-consuming and labor-intensive for Child Care providers.

Type of Child Care
The type of Child Care you choose can also affect the cost. For example, in-home Child Care may be less expensive than center-based care, but it may also offer fewer amenities and resources. Similarly, part-time care may be less expensive than full-time care, but it may not be as convenient or reliable.

Location
Location can also play a role in Child Care costs. Child Care providers in urban areas may charge more than those in rural areas due to higher operating costs and demand. Additionally, providers in certain neighborhoods or areas may charge more due to higher demand and limited availability.

Quality of Care
The quality of care provided by a Child Care provider can also impact the cost. Providers who offer high-quality care, such as those who are accredited or have higher staff-to-child ratios, may charge more than those who do not.

Additional Fees
Finally, it’s important to consider any additional fees that may be associated with childcare. For example, some providers may charge extra for meals or transportation, while others may require a deposit or registration fee. These fees can add up quickly and should be factored into your overall Child Care budget.

Overall, there are many factors that can affect the cost of Child Care in Maryland. By understanding these factors and doing your research, you can make an informed decision about the type of Child Care that best meets your needs and budget.

Maryland Child Care cost per city

Baltimore Child Care

The cost of daycare in Baltimore is $717 per month on average, including homes and centers.

Annapolis Child Care

The cost of Child Care in Annapolis, varies depending on the type of care. The cost of daycare in Annapolis is $812 per month on average, including homes and centers.

Columbia Child Care

The average annual cost of full-time care is $13,780 for infants in a center, which is $1,150 per month, compared to $12,740, or $1,060 per month, in a family Child Care.

Germantown Child Care

For preschoolers, the average price for full-time care is $190 per week in home-based preschools, which is just below $10,000 per year, and $275 per week in center-based preschools.

Silver Spring Child Care

In Silver Spring, tuition rates go as high as $500 per week, which is $26,000 per year, and on average, full-time Child Care in home daycares costs $260 per week.

Additional Factors

As mentioned before, it is important to take all factors into consideration when looking into the cost of Child Care in a specific state. Unfortunately the price communicated by your Child Care provider is not the same as the total cost of Child Care. Some additional things to consider:

Availability
‘Supply and demand’ plays an important role in determining the cost of Child Care. When the demand for Child Care is high, the average cost will likely be higher as well.

Commute
The commute between the Child Care facility and your home is also a factor to take into consideration. Think about your preferred mode of transportation and if you are planning to use your car, make sure to calculate the average cost based on the fuel prices in your area. Even parking costs might be something worth looking into.

Activities and other services
It is always a good idea to inquire about the activities and services that are included in the price your Child Care facility communicates to you, and to ask for an estimate of the cost of potential activities and services that might be charged separately throughout the year. For laundry, for example, or sport or music activities, but even early language training. Even the food your child consumes at the Child Care facility might be charged separately. Or perhaps they ask you to pack a lunch for them, which, on average, is also more expensive than simply eating at home.