Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Madison, WI metro area
Madison Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Madison
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Madison metro area is $83,113. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Madison Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Madison | $1,069 | $12,823 |
| Wisconsin Average | $1,100 | $13,200 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Madison childcare costs are about the same as the Wisconsin state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Wisconsin, see our comprehensive Wisconsin Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Madison
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Madison averages $1,069/month for infants. The Madison, WI area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $831/month for infants in Madison – typically 22% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Madison typically costs $32,057/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Wisconsin
Child Care Subsidy Program
Wisconsin’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
