Childcare Costs by State: Best and Worst Places for Families

Childcare costs vary dramatically by state, taking up as much as 23% of my income in some places and nothing at all in others.

Illustrated U.S. map highlighting selected states in yellow and teal with red location pins for childcare cost and ranking comparison.
A color-coded U.S. map pinpoints states across the country, visually comparing where childcare may be more affordable or more expensive for families.

I know how much where I live can change the cost of raising a family, especially when it comes to childcare. In some states, childcare can take up as much as 23% of my income, while in others, it may cost me nothing at all.

BabyCenter infographic ranking Indiana, Nevada, Hawaii, Missouri, and Montana as states with the worst childcare access and costs.
A BabyCenter infographic highlights the five worst states for childcare, pointing to high costs, limited availability, subsidy gaps, and preschool funding challenges.
Infographic ranking the best U.S. states for childcare, highlighting New Mexico, Vermont, Delaware, Arkansas, and North Dakota.
BabyCenter’s childcare ranking spotlights five states where families may find stronger support, from free universal care in New Mexico to lower costs and better availability elsewhere.

Inspired by this post on Baby Center.


Generated image 1 (2)

FAQs

How much can childcare costs vary from state to state?

The post says childcare can take up as much as 23% of income in some states. In others, it may cost nothing at all.

Which states are highlighted as the worst for childcare?

The infographic highlights Indiana, Nevada, Hawaii, Missouri, and Montana as the five worst states for childcare access and costs.

Why do some states rank poorly for childcare?

The post points to high costs, limited availability, gaps in subsidies, and challenges with preschool funding as factors behind weaker childcare rankings.

Which states are highlighted as the best for childcare?

The infographic highlights New Mexico, Vermont, Delaware, Arkansas, and North Dakota as the five best states for childcare.

What childcare support is highlighted in New Mexico?

The infographic caption highlights New Mexico for offering free universal care.

What helps a state rank as a better place for childcare?

The comparison emphasizes stronger family support, lower childcare costs, and better availability. New Mexico’s free universal care is one example highlighted in the post.

What source inspired this childcare ranking post?

The post says it was inspired by a BabyCenter article about the best and worst states for childcare.

Join the conversation

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked.

From birth till the first flush

A few taps now. A clearer picture later.

Log diapers, feeds, sleep and more in one calm place—then notice the gentle patterns in your baby’s day.

Get diapr.ai Free to download · iPhone & Android
Diaproo, the diapr.ai kangaroo mascot