Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Chattanooga, TN metro area
Chattanooga Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Chattanooga
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Chattanooga metro area is $70,215. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Chattanooga Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Chattanooga | $808 | $9,692 |
| Tennessee Average | $750 | $9,000 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Chattanooga childcare costs are 8% higher than the Tennessee state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Tennessee, see our comprehensive Tennessee Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Chattanooga
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Chattanooga averages $808/month for infants. The Chattanooga, TN area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $645/month for infants in Chattanooga – typically 20% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Chattanooga typically costs $24,230/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Tennessee
Child Care Subsidy Program
Tennessee’s childcare subsidy program helps eligible families. Contact your local resource and referral agency to apply.
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
