Childcare Cost in California (2026)
Infant daycare in California averages $21,700/year ($1,808/month) — 50% above the national average.
Childcare Costs by California Metro Area
| City | Daycare (Infant) | Nanny (Infant) | Nanny Share | Au Pair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco Bay Area | $26,000 | $45,000 | $25,000 | $22,000 |
| Los Angeles | $20,000 | $38,000 | $22,000 | $22,000 |
| San Diego | $18,500 | $35,000 | $20,000 | $22,000 |
| San Jose | $24,000 | $43,000 | $24,500 | $22,000 |
| Sacramento | $20,000 | $36,000 | $21,000 | $22,000 |
California Childcare Assistance & Subsidies
CalWORKs Child Care & Alternative Payment Programs
California runs multiple childcare subsidy programs. Income eligibility is based on 85% of the State Median Income.
State Tax Benefits
California offers a state Child and Dependent Care Expenses Credit worth up to 50% of the federal credit for lower-income families.
Learn more in our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide or the full California Childcare Subsidies Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in California?
Infant daycare in California averages $21,700 per year ($1,808/month), ranging from $18,500 to $26,000 across major metros. This is 50% above the national average of $14,500.
What childcare subsidies are available in California?
California offers the CalWORKs Child Care & Alternative Payment Programs. California runs multiple childcare subsidy programs. Income eligibility is based on 85% of the State Median Income. California offers a state Child and Dependent Care Expenses Credit worth up to 50% of the federal credit for lower-income families.
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