Everything you need to know about daycare prices in California
California Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in California
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in California is $87,860. Based on the federal standard that childcare should cost no more than 7% of income, childcare in California is above the affordability threshold.
How California Compares
- National Average (Infant): $14,800/year
- California Average (Infant): $22,000/year
- Difference: $7,200 more than national average
- State Ranking: #3 most expensive
Types of Childcare in California
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in California averages $1,833/month for infants. Licensed centers offer structured environments with trained staff and typically operate during standard business hours.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $1,510/month for infants in California – about 18% less than centers. These smaller settings often offer more flexible hours.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny typically costs more but offers personalized attention and flexibility. In California, expect to pay $55,000/year for full-time nanny care.
California Paid Family Leave
Good news! California has a paid family leave program that can help new parents.
- Duration: Up to 8 weeks
- Wage Replacement: 70% of earnings
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $1,620
Through SDI/PFL program
Financial Assistance Programs in California
Child Care Subsidy Program
California’s childcare subsidy program helps eligible low-to-moderate income families pay for childcare. Contact your local resource and referral agency to apply.
Head Start
Head Start provides free early childhood education to qualifying families. Programs are available throughout California.
Tax Benefits
- Dependent Care FSA: Save up to $5,000/year pre-tax
- Child and Dependent Care Credit: Up to $3,000 per child
- Child Tax Credit: Up to $2,000 per child
Childcare Costs by City in California
Costs can vary significantly within California. Here are some major cities:
- Los Angeles – $2,108/month
- San Diego – $2,017/month
- San Jose – $2,383/month
- San Francisco – $2,475/month
- Fresno – $2,009/month
- Sacramento – $2,107/month
- Bakersfield – $1,895/month
- Stockton – $2,107/month
