Preschool Daycare Cost in California
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$245
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,061
Average in California
Annual Cost
$12,730
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#2
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in California: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in California pay an average of $245 per week ($1061/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes California 50% more expensive than the national average for preschool childcare.
Preschool-age care (3-4 years) is the most affordable option with ratios around 1:8 to 1:10. In California, this translates to approximately $12,730 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, California families can expect to spend around $19,095 on preschool care alone.
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for preschool 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 | $1,061 | $12,732 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $849 | $10,188 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,591 | $19,092 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,652 | $31,824 | +150% |
How much does preschool daycare cost in California?
The average preschool daycare cost in California is $245 per week or $1061 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes California one of the most expensive for preschool care nationally, ranking #2 out of 50 states.
Is California expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, California is 50% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $1061/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in California?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in California. For preschools, family daycare averages $849/month compared to $1061/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in California until kindergarten?
Based on current California rates, you can expect to spend approximately $19,095 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in California?
Key factors include: (1) Location within California - 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 preschool daycare costs in California?
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 California's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in California?
Preschool-age children in California 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 preschool daycare in California?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in California. 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 California.
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 California childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in California represents approximately 21% 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.