Daycare Cost in Rhode Island
Compare average child care prices in Rhode Island for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$18,486
$1,541/mo
National Ranking
15th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+19%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$13,000
$1,083/mo (home-based)
Rhode Island 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) | $18,486 | $1,541 | +19% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $14,300 | $1,192 | +26% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $17,300 | $1,442 | +21% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $13,600 | $1,133 | +25% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $16,212 | $1,351 | +29% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $13,000 | $1,083 | +26% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Rhode Island
Infant
Center
$1,541/mo
Home
$1,192/mo
Save $4,186/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,442/mo
Home
$1,133/mo
Save $3,700/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,351/mo
Home
$1,083/mo
Save $3,212/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Rhode Island
- Rhode Island ranks as the 15th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $18,486/year.
- Home-based care costs 23% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Rhode Island is +19% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Rhode Island's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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