Cost of Child Care in Washington: A Breakdown for 2023

Child Care is a significant expense for many families, and the cost can vary greatly depending on where you live. In the state of Washington, the average annual cost of infant care is $14,554 — that’s $1,213 per month. That’s more than the cost of sending your child to the University of Washington for a year! And Child Care for 4-year-old costs $11,051, or $921 each month. This is a significant burden for families who are already struggling to make ends meet, and it highlights the need for affordable Child Care options.

If you are a parent in Washington, you may be wondering how much you should expect to pay for Child Care. The cost can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the age of your child, the type of care you choose, and where you live. It can be challenging to navigate the many options available and determine what is best for your family, both financially and in terms of quality of care.

We will break down the cost of Child Care in Washington State for 2023, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision about Child Care for your family.

Understanding Child Care Costs in Washington

If you are a parent or guardian in Washington, you are likely aware of the high cost of Child Care. According to recent reports, Child Care costs in Washington state have risen significantly over the past few years, making it difficult for many families to afford quality care for their children. In 2023, the average annual cost for center-based toddler care consumes 39% of a single parent’s median income or 12% of a family’s median income.

It’s important to note that Child Care costs are not the only expenses associated with Child Care. Parents also need to factor in transportation costs, food, and supplies such as diapers and formula.

Factors Influencing Washington Child Care Costs

According to a report commissioned by the Washington State Child Care Collaborative Task Force and partners, the mounting costs of childcare in Washington State are affected by several factors. These include low reimbursement rates for providers, high staff turnover rates, and a lack of affordable housing and transportation. The report also notes that the cost of living in Washington has increased faster than wages, making it difficult for families to afford quality Child Care. Additionally, the report found that many families are unable to access Child Care subsidies due to restrictive eligibility requirements.

When it comes to the cost of care in Washington, there are several factors that play a role in determining how much you will pay.

1. Age of Child
The age of your child is one of the biggest factors that will impact the cost of Child Care. Infants and toddlers require much more attention and care than older children, which means that Child Care providers need to hire more staff and provide more resources to meet their needs. As a result, costs for infants and toddlers tend to be higher than for older children.

2. Type of Child Care
The type of Child Care you choose will also impact how much you pay. For example, in-home Child Care providers may charge less than larger Child Care centers, but they may also have more limited availability and resources. On the other hand, larger Child Care centers may offer more amenities and resources, but they may also come with a higher price tag.

3. Location in Washington
Finally, the location of your Child Care provider will also influence the cost. Costs tend to be higher in urban areas like Seattle and Bellevue, where the cost of living is generally higher. In more rural areas, Child Care costs may be lower due to lower overhead costs.

Washington Child Care Cost Per City

Seattle Child Care

As of June 2023, the average rate for Child Care providers in Seattle is $22.39 per hour. The weekly cost for Child Care providers working a 40-hour week is $896 while the monthly cost is approximately $2,911 for 130 hours of work.

Bellingham Child Care

As of June 2023, the average rate for Child Care providers in Bellingham is $17.68 per hour. The weekly cost for Child Care providers working a 40-hour week is $707 while the monthly cost is approximately $2,298 for 130 hours of work.

Leavenworth Child Care

As of June 2023, the average rate for Child Care providers in Leavenworth is $20.38 per hour. The weekly cost for Child Care providers working a 40-hour week is $815 while the monthly cost is approximately $2,649 for 130 hours of work.

Spokane Child Care

As of June 2023, the average rate for Child Care providers in Spokane is $17.26 per hour. The weekly cost for Child Care providers working a 40-hour week is $690 while the monthly cost is approximately $2,244 for 130 hours of work

Yakima Child Care

As of June 2023, the average rate for Child Care providers in Yakima is $16.35 per hour. The weekly cost for Child Care providers working a 40-hour week is $654 while the monthly cost is approximately $2,126 for 130 hours of work.