Daycare Cost in Washington
Compare average child care prices in Washington for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$21,348
$1,779/mo
National Ranking
6th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+37%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$14,556
$1,213/mo (home-based)
Washington 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) | $21,348 | $1,779 | +37% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $18,000 | $1,500 | +58% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $19,236 | $1,603 | +34% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $16,200 | $1,350 | +49% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $16,908 | $1,409 | +35% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $14,556 | $1,213 | +41% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Washington
Infant
Center
$1,779/mo
Home
$1,500/mo
Save $3,348/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,603/mo
Home
$1,350/mo
Save $3,036/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,409/mo
Home
$1,213/mo
Save $2,352/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Washington
- Washington ranks as the 6th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $21,348/year.
- Home-based care costs 16% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Washington is +37% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Washington's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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