Pre-K Daycare Cost in Alaska
2026 Average Rates for 4-5 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$206
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$892
Average in Alaska
Annual Cost
$10,704
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#8
of 50 states
Pre-K Daycare Costs in Alaska: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Alaska pay an average of $206 per week ($892/month) for full-time pre-k daycare center care. This makes Alaska 26% more expensive than the national average for pre-k childcare.
Pre-kindergarten care prepares children for elementary school with higher child-to-teacher ratios. In Alaska, this translates to approximately $10,704 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Alaska families can expect to spend around $16,056 on pre-k care alone.
Alaska ranks #8 out of 50 states for pre-k 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 | $892 | $10,704 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $714 | $8,568 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,338 | $16,056 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,230 | $26,760 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska (current) | $206 | $892 | — |
| Washington | $215 | $931 | $39 more |
| Hawaii | $235 | $1,018 | $126 more |
How much does pre-k daycare cost in Alaska?
The average pre-k daycare cost in Alaska is $206 per week or $892 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Alaska one of the most expensive for pre-k care nationally, ranking #8 out of 50 states.
Is Alaska expensive for pre-k childcare?
Yes, Alaska is 26% above the national average for pre-k care. You can expect to pay around $892/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for pre-ks in Alaska?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Alaska. For pre-ks, family daycare averages $714/month compared to $892/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on pre-k care in Alaska until kindergarten?
Based on current Alaska rates, you can expect to spend approximately $16,056 total on pre-k care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 4-5 years).
What factors affect pre-k 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 pre-k 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 pre-ks in Alaska?
Preschool-age children in Alaska benefit from ratios around 1:8 to 1:10, making this the most affordable age for daycare as one caregiver can supervise more children.
When should I start looking for pre-k daycare in Alaska?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for pre-k care in Alaska. Quality providers fill up quickly, especially for the fall school year start.
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
Pre-K care in Alaska represents approximately 18% 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.