Average daycare prices and childcare options in the St. Louis, MO metro area
St. Louis Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in St. Louis
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the St. Louis metro area is $73,189. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How St. Louis Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| St. Louis | $846 | $10,155 |
| Missouri Average | $817 | $9,800 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
St. Louis childcare costs are about the same as the Missouri state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Missouri, see our comprehensive Missouri Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in St. Louis
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in St. Louis averages $846/month for infants. The St. Louis, MO area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $674/month for infants in St. Louis – typically 20% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in St. Louis typically costs $25,387/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Missouri
Child Care Subsidy Program
Missouri’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
