Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Lancaster, PA metro area
Lancaster Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Lancaster
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Lancaster metro area is $86,206. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Lancaster Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Lancaster | $1,119 | $13,426 |
| Pennsylvania Average | $1,125 | $13,500 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Lancaster childcare costs are about the same as the Pennsylvania state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across Pennsylvania, see our comprehensive Pennsylvania Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Lancaster
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Lancaster averages $1,119/month for infants. The Lancaster, PA area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $891/month for infants in Lancaster – typically 20% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Lancaster typically costs $33,565/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in Pennsylvania
Child Care Subsidy Program
Pennsylvania’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
