Everything you need to know about daycare prices in Massachusetts
Massachusetts Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Massachusetts
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in Massachusetts is $93,550. Based on the federal standard that childcare should cost no more than 7% of income, childcare in Massachusetts is above the affordability threshold.
How Massachusetts Compares
- National Average (Infant): $14,800/year
- Massachusetts Average (Infant): $26,709/year
- Difference: $11,909 more than national average
- State Ranking: #2 most expensive
Types of Childcare in Massachusetts
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Massachusetts averages $2,226/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 $1,849/month for infants in Massachusetts – about 17% 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 Massachusetts, expect to pay $66,772/year for full-time nanny care.
Massachusetts Paid Family Leave
Good news! Massachusetts has a paid family leave program that can help new parents.
- Duration: Up to 12 weeks
- Wage Replacement: 80% of earnings
- Maximum Weekly Benefit: $1,149
PFML program
Financial Assistance Programs in Massachusetts
Child Care Subsidy Program
Massachusetts’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 Massachusetts.
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 Massachusetts
Costs can vary significantly within Massachusetts. Here are some major cities:
