Pre-K Daycare Cost in Arizona
2026 Average Rates for 4-5 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$165
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$714
Average in Arizona
Annual Cost
$8,573
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#20
of 50 states
Pre-K Daycare Costs in Arizona: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Arizona pay an average of $165 per week ($714/month) for full-time pre-k daycare center care. This makes Arizona right around the national average for pre-k childcare.
Pre-kindergarten care prepares children for elementary school with higher child-to-teacher ratios. In Arizona, this translates to approximately $8,573 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Arizona families can expect to spend around $12,860 on pre-k care alone.
Arizona ranks #20 out of 50 states for pre-k daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $714 | $8,568 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $572 | $6,864 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,072 | $12,864 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,786 | $21,432 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona (current) | $165 | $714 | — |
| New Mexico | $125 | $541 | $173 less |
| Utah | $150 | $650 | $64 less |
| Nevada | $165 | $714 | Same |
| Colorado | $195 | $844 | $130 more |
| California | $245 | $1,061 | $347 more |
How much does pre-k daycare cost in Arizona?
The average pre-k daycare cost in Arizona is $165 per week or $714 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Arizona around average cost for pre-k care nationally, ranking #20 out of 50 states.
Is Arizona expensive for pre-k childcare?
Arizona is right around the national average for pre-k care costs at $714/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for pre-ks in Arizona?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Arizona. For pre-ks, family daycare averages $572/month compared to $714/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on pre-k care in Arizona until kindergarten?
Based on current Arizona rates, you can expect to spend approximately $12,860 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 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 pre-k 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 pre-ks in Arizona?
Preschool-age children in Arizona 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 Arizona?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for pre-k care in Arizona. 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 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
Pre-K care in Arizona represents approximately 14% 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.