Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Chicago, IL metro area
Chicago Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Chicago
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Chicago metro area is $82,879. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Chicago Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $1,440 | $17,280 |
| Illinois Average | $1,333 | $16,000 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Chicago childcare costs are 8% higher than the Illinois state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Illinois, see our comprehensive Illinois Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Chicago
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Chicago averages $1,440/month for infants. The Chicago, IL area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $1,135/month for infants in Chicago – typically 21% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Chicago typically costs $43,200/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Illinois
Child Care Subsidy Program
Illinois’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
