Daycare Cost in Minnesota
Compare average child care prices in Minnesota for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$20,421
$1,702/mo
National Ranking
9th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+31%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$8,978
$748/mo (home-based)
Minnesota 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) | $20,421 | $1,702 | +31% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $9,821 | $818 | -14% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $18,042 | $1,504 | +26% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $9,434 | $786 | -13% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $15,733 | $1,311 | +26% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $8,978 | $748 | -13% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Minnesota
Infant
Center
$1,702/mo
Home
$818/mo
Save $10,600/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,504/mo
Home
$786/mo
Save $8,608/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,311/mo
Home
$748/mo
Save $6,755/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Minnesota
- Minnesota ranks as the 9th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $20,421/year.
- Home-based care costs 52% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Minnesota is +31% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Minnesota's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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