Childcare Cost Calculator
Compare daycare, nanny, au pair, and more. Get personalized cost estimates, calculate tax credits, and find the most affordable childcare option for your family.
Tell us about your household
Tax credits apply to children under 13
How the Calculator Works
Enter Your Info
Tell us about your household income, state, and number of children needing care.
Add Work Costs
Include commuting, wardrobe, and meal costs to see the true cost of working.
Compare Options
See side-by-side costs including tax credits for daycare, nanny, au pair, and more.
Take Your Planning Further
Get detailed worksheets and planners to manage your childcare budget
Childcare Cost Planner Toolkit
Spreadsheets with live formulas, 50-state cost data, tax calculators, negotiation scripts, and 8 bonus printables.
Learn More About Childcare Costs
How Much Does Child Care Cost?
Complete 2026 breakdown of childcare costs by type and state.
Read GuideHow to Afford Child Care
Tax credits, subsidies, and strategies to reduce childcare costs.
Read Guide7 Childcare Options Compared
Pros, cons, and costs of every childcare type explained.
Read GuideChild Care Tax Credit Guide
How to claim up to $6,000 in childcare tax credits.
Read GuideFrequently Asked Questions
How accurate are these cost estimates?
Our calculator uses average costs by state from 2024-2025 data. Actual costs vary by location, provider quality, and specific needs. Use the custom rate fields to input actual quotes you've received for more accurate results.
What is the Child and Dependent Care Credit?
It's a federal tax credit that can reduce your tax bill by 20-35% of qualifying childcare expenses, up to $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two or more. The percentage depends on your income level.
Does it make financial sense to stay home?
Our work vs. stay home analysis helps answer this, but finances aren't everything. Consider career trajectory, retirement savings, personal fulfillment, and your child's needs. Many families find the answer isn't purely financial.
Which childcare option is best?
There's no universal best option. Daycare centers offer socialization and structure; nannies provide flexibility and personalized care; au pairs give live-in convenience; home daycares offer a middle ground. The best choice depends on your family's priorities, schedule, and budget.
Plan Your Childcare Journey
Childcare Planning Kit
Complete guides, checklists, and comparison tools to find the best childcare for your family.
Get the Planning KitDaycare & Childcare Essentials
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