Daycare Cost in Massachusetts
Compare average child care prices in Massachusetts for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$26,343
$2,195/mo
National Ranking
1st Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+69%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$15,056
$1,255/mo (home-based)
Massachusetts Child Care Cost Breakdown
Annual and monthly costs by care type and setting (2025 data)
| Care Type | Annual Cost | Monthly Cost | vs. National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (Center-Based) | $26,343 | $2,195 | +69% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $17,510 | $1,459 | +54% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $24,314 | $2,026 | +70% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $17,511 | $1,459 | +61% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $20,669 | $1,722 | +65% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $15,056 | $1,255 | +46% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Massachusetts
Infant
Center
$2,195/mo
Home
$1,459/mo
Save $8,833/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$2,026/mo
Home
$1,459/mo
Save $6,803/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,722/mo
Home
$1,255/mo
Save $5,613/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts ranks as the 1st most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $26,343/year.
- Home-based care costs 34% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Massachusetts is +69% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Massachusetts's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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