Baby Daycare Cost in Alaska
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$271
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,173
Average in Alaska
Annual Cost
$14,081
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#9
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Alaska: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Alaska pay an average of $271 per week ($1173/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Alaska 30% more expensive than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In Alaska, this translates to approximately $14,081 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Alaska families can expect to spend around $63,365 on baby care alone.
Alaska ranks #9 out of 50 states for baby daycare costs. This places it among the most expensive states for childcare in the West region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $1,173 | $14,076 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $939 | $11,268 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,760 | $21,120 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,934 | $35,208 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska (current) | $271 | $1,173 | — |
| Washington | $285 | $1,234 | $61 more |
| Hawaii | $295 | $1,277 | $104 more |
How much does baby daycare cost in Alaska?
The average baby daycare cost in Alaska is $271 per week or $1173 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Alaska one of the most expensive for baby care nationally, ranking #9 out of 50 states.
Is Alaska expensive for baby childcare?
Yes, Alaska is 30% above the national average for baby care. You can expect to pay around $1173/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Alaska?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Alaska. For babys, family daycare averages $939/month compared to $1173/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Alaska until kindergarten?
Based on current Alaska rates, you can expect to spend approximately $63,365 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Alaska?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Alaska - urban areas cost 20-40% more than rural; (2) Care type - nannies cost 50-150% more than centers; (3) Hours needed - part-time may not be proportionally cheaper; (4) Provider quality and accreditation; (5) Whether meals and supplies are included.
How can I reduce baby daycare costs in Alaska?
To reduce costs: Use a Dependent Care FSA (up to $5,000/year tax-free), claim the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (up to $3,000), consider a nanny share with another family, look for employer childcare benefits, or explore Alaska's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Alaska?
Alaska typically requires 1:3 or 1:4 caregiver-to-infant ratios, which is why infant care is the most expensive. This ensures each baby gets adequate attention and care.
When should I start looking for baby daycare in Alaska?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Alaska infant daycare spots are in high demand due to low ratios, and many centers have waitlists. Some parents get on lists while still pregnant.
Calculate Your Exact Costs
Get a personalized estimate based on your specific hours, care type, and location within Alaska.
Use Interactive Calculator- Use Dependent Care FSA ($5,000/yr tax-free)
- Claim Child Care Tax Credit (up to $3,000)
- Consider nanny share to split costs 50%
- Check Alaska childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Alaska represents approximately 23% of median household income.
Cost estimates are based on 2024-2025 state averages and may vary by specific location, provider, and services included. Contact local providers for accurate current pricing. Updated 2026.