Daycare Cost in South Carolina
Compare average child care prices in South Carolina for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$10,474
$873/mo
National Ranking
46th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
-33%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$7,223
$602/mo (home-based)
South Carolina 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) | $10,474 | $873 | -33% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $8,126 | $677 | -29% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $10,308 | $859 | -28% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $7,449 | $621 | -32% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $9,691 | $808 | -23% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $7,223 | $602 | -30% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in South Carolina
Infant
Center
$873/mo
Home
$677/mo
Save $2,348/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$859/mo
Home
$621/mo
Save $2,859/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$808/mo
Home
$602/mo
Save $2,468/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in South Carolina
- South Carolina ranks as the 46th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $10,474/year.
- Home-based care costs 22% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in South Carolina is -33% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how South Carolina's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
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