Daycare Cost in Wisconsin
Compare average child care prices in Wisconsin for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$17,963
$1,497/mo
National Ranking
17th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+15%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$11,088
$924/mo (home-based)
Wisconsin 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) | $17,963 | $1,497 | +15% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $12,319 | $1,027 | +8% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $18,239 | $1,520 | +27% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $14,743 | $1,229 | +35% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $15,039 | $1,253 | +20% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $11,088 | $924 | +8% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Wisconsin
Infant
Center
$1,497/mo
Home
$1,027/mo
Save $5,644/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,520/mo
Home
$1,229/mo
Save $3,496/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,253/mo
Home
$924/mo
Save $3,951/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Wisconsin
- Wisconsin ranks as the 17th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Toddler Center at $17,963/year.
- Home-based care costs 31% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Wisconsin is +15% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Wisconsin's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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