Infant Daycare Cost in Arizona
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$204
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$883
Average in Arizona
Annual Cost
$10,600
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#23
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Arizona: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Arizona pay an average of $204 per week ($883/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Arizona right around the national average for infant childcare.
Infant care requires the highest caregiver-to-child ratio (typically 1:3 or 1:4), making it the most expensive childcare option. In Arizona, this translates to approximately $10,600 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Arizona families can expect to spend around $47,699 on infant care alone.
Arizona ranks #23 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $883 | $10,596 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $707 | $8,484 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,325 | $15,900 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,208 | $26,496 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona (current) | $204 | $883 | — |
| New Mexico | $158 | $684 | $199 less |
| Utah | $185 | $801 | $82 less |
| Nevada | $215 | $931 | $48 more |
| Colorado | $268 | $1,160 | $277 more |
| California | $310 | $1,342 | $459 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Arizona?
The average infant daycare cost in Arizona is $204 per week or $883 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Arizona around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #23 out of 50 states.
Is Arizona expensive for infant childcare?
Arizona is right around the national average for infant care costs at $883/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Arizona?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Arizona. For infants, family daycare averages $707/month compared to $883/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Arizona until kindergarten?
Based on current Arizona rates, you can expect to spend approximately $47,699 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Arizona?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Arizona - 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 infant daycare costs in Arizona?
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 Arizona's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Arizona?
Arizona 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 infant daycare in Arizona?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Arizona 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 Arizona.
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 Arizona childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Arizona 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.