Infant Daycare Cost in Arkansas
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$140
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$606
Average in Arkansas
Annual Cost
$7,274
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#48
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Arkansas: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Arkansas pay an average of $140 per week ($606/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Arkansas 33% more affordable than 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 Arkansas, this translates to approximately $7,274 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Arkansas families can expect to spend around $32,735 on infant care alone.
Arkansas ranks #48 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the Southeast region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $606 | $7,272 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $485 | $5,820 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $909 | $10,908 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,516 | $18,192 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas (current) | $140 | $606 | — |
| Mississippi | $125 | $541 | $65 less |
| Tennessee | $155 | $671 | $65 more |
| Louisiana | $158 | $684 | $78 more |
| Missouri | $168 | $727 | $121 more |
| Texas | $195 | $844 | $238 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Arkansas?
The average infant daycare cost in Arkansas is $140 per week or $606 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Arkansas one of the most affordable for infant care nationally, ranking #48 out of 50 states.
Is Arkansas expensive for infant childcare?
Arkansas is actually 33% below the national average for infant care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $606/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Arkansas?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Arkansas. For infants, family daycare averages $485/month compared to $606/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Arkansas until kindergarten?
Based on current Arkansas rates, you can expect to spend approximately $32,735 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Arkansas?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Arkansas - 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 Arkansas?
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 Arkansas's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Arkansas?
Arkansas 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 Arkansas?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Arkansas 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 Arkansas.
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 Arkansas childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Arkansas represents approximately 12% 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.