Average daycare prices and childcare options in the Los Angeles, CA metro area
Los Angeles Childcare Cost Summary
Infant Care
Toddler Care
Preschool
Affordability in Los Angeles
of median household income goes to infant childcare
The median household income in the Los Angeles metro area is $102,956. Childcare costs represent a significant portion of family budgets in this area.
How Los Angeles Compares
| Location | Infant (Monthly) | Infant (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | $2,108 | $25,300 |
| California Average | $1,833 | $22,000 |
| National Average | $1,233 | $14,800 |
Los Angeles childcare costs are 15% higher than the California state average.
Statewide Information
For more details on childcare costs, subsidies, and paid family leave programs across California, see our comprehensive California Childcare Cost Guide.
Types of Childcare in Los Angeles
Daycare Centers
Center-based care in Los Angeles averages $2,108/month for infants. The Los Angeles, CA area has numerous licensed centers offering full-time care.
Family Daycare
Family daycare (in-home care providers) averages $1,617/month for infants in Los Angeles – typically 23% less than centers.
Nanny/Au Pair
Private in-home care through a nanny in Los Angeles typically costs $63,250/year for full-time care, higher than the national average due to cost of living.
Financial Assistance in California
Child Care Subsidy Program
California’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
