Daycare Costs in New York 2026
New York has some of the highest childcare costs in the nation, with Manhattan commanding the most extreme prices. However, NYC's free 3-K and Pre-K programs provide significant relief for families with children ages 3-4. This guide covers 2026 costs across the Empire State.
Daycare Prep Essentials
New York at a Glance
$1,850
State Average (Monthly)
$22,200
Average Annual Cost
#4
Most Expensive State
Daycare Costs by New York Region
New York childcare costs span an enormous range from Manhattan's premium prices to affordable upstate options:
| Region | Infant Care | Toddler Care | Preschool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan | $2,800-$4,000 | $2,400-$3,500 | $2,000-$3,000 |
| Brooklyn | $2,200-$3,200 | $1,900-$2,800 | $1,600-$2,400 |
| Queens/Bronx/SI | $1,600-$2,400 | $1,400-$2,100 | $1,200-$1,800 |
| Westchester | $2,000-$2,800 | $1,700-$2,400 | $1,400-$2,000 |
| Long Island | $1,800-$2,500 | $1,500-$2,100 | $1,300-$1,800 |
| Albany/Hudson Valley | $1,200-$1,600 | $1,050-$1,400 | $900-$1,200 |
| Buffalo/Syracuse/Rochester | $1,000-$1,400 | $900-$1,200 | $800-$1,100 |
NYC Free Universal Pre-K Programs
3-K for All
Free full-day program for 3-year-olds. Available in all NYC districts. Saves families $20,000-$35,000 annually.
Pre-K for All
Free full-day program for 4-year-olds. Universal access across NYC. Full-day (6 hours) or extended day options.
These programs represent the most significant childcare benefit in the US. NYC families with children ages 3-4 can eliminate preschool costs entirely.
New York Childcare Options Compared
Daycare Centers
$1,400-$3,500/mo
- Licensed by NY OCFS
- QUALITYstarsNY ratings
- Extremely long waitlists in NYC
- Many accept 3-K/Pre-K vouchers
Family Daycare
$1,000-$2,200/mo
- Licensed or registered options
- Smaller groups (up to 12 kids)
- Often bilingual providers
- More availability than centers
Nanny (Full-Time)
$3,500-$6,500/mo
- In-home personalized care
- Must pay NY nanny taxes
- Plus payroll taxes (~12%)
- Manhattan rates highest
Nanny Share
$2,000-$3,800/mo
- Split costs with another family
- Very popular in NYC
- Built-in playmate
- Requires compatible schedules
Planning Considerations for New York Families
- Cash flow: In NYC, plan for steep costs ($25,000-$40,000/year) for infant/toddler care ages 0-2, then dramatic savings via free 3-K and Pre-K programs. The NY Child Tax Credit provides up to $330 per child on top of federal credits. High state income taxes (4-10.9%) make Dependent Care FSA particularly valuable.
- Time tradeoffs: NYC daycare waitlists can exceed 18 months for sought-after centers. Apply during pregnancy. Outside NYC, waitlists are more manageable (2-6 months). 3-K/Pre-K enrollment opens in late winter for fall start.
- Long-term impact: NYC's free 3-K and Pre-K programs save families $40,000-$70,000 total over two years. Strategic planning around these programs significantly affects total childcare expenditure. Consider these savings when making housing and work decisions.
New York Childcare Assistance Programs
NYC 3-K for All
FREE full-day Pre-K for 3-year-olds in NYC. No income requirements. Available at DOE schools, Pre-K centers, and family childcare programs.
NYC Pre-K for All
FREE universal Pre-K for 4-year-olds in NYC. Full-day programs (6 hours) available across all five boroughs.
NY Child Care Assistance Program
Subsidized childcare for working families earning up to 85% of state median income. Administered by county social services departments.
Head Start / Early Head Start
Free comprehensive early childhood program for eligible low-income families. Programs available throughout New York State.
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