Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Indianapolis, IN metro area
Indianapolis Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Indianapolis
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Indianapolis metro area is $67,978. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Indianapolis Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Indianapolis | $954 | $11,446 |
| Indiana Average | $850 | $10,200 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Indianapolis childcare costs are 12% higher than the Indiana state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Indiana, see our comprehensive Indiana Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Indianapolis
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Indianapolis averages $954/month for infants. The Indianapolis, IN area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $784/month for infants in Indianapolis – typically 18% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Indianapolis typically costs $28,615/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Indiana
Child Care Subsidy Program
Indiana’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
