Toddler Daycare Cost in California
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$285
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,234
Average in California
Annual Cost
$14,809
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#2
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in California: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in California pay an average of $285 per week ($1234/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes California 51% more expensive than the national average for toddler childcare.
Toddler care (ages 1-2) costs slightly less than infant care as ratios increase to around 1:4 or 1:5. In California, this translates to approximately $14,809 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, California families can expect to spend around $44,426 on toddler care alone.
California ranks #2 out of 50 states for toddler 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 | $1,234 | $14,808 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $987 | $11,844 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,851 | $22,212 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $3,085 | $37,020 | +150% |
How much does toddler daycare cost in California?
The average toddler daycare cost in California is $285 per week or $1234 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes California one of the most expensive for toddler care nationally, ranking #2 out of 50 states.
Is California expensive for toddler childcare?
Yes, California is 51% above the national average for toddler care. You can expect to pay around $1234/month compared to the national average of $818/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in California?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in California. For toddlers, family daycare averages $987/month compared to $1234/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in California until kindergarten?
Based on current California rates, you can expect to spend approximately $44,426 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in California?
For toddlers in California, the typical ratio is 1:4 to 1:6, which allows for slightly lower costs than infant care while still ensuring proper supervision.
When should I start looking for toddler daycare in California?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler 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
Toddler care in California represents approximately 25% of median household income.
What you actually have to buy before day one
Tuition is only part of the cost. Centres in California send a supply list with enrolment, and these four are on nearly every one of them.
Makemake Organics Organic Cotton Nap MatGOTS-certified with a removable, washable cover, which is what decides whether a mat survives a year of daily use.
Check price on Amazon →
Skip Hop Sparks Kid's BackpackSized for a preschooler rather than a school-age child, so it actually fits a classroom cubby.
Check price on Amazon →
Yumbox Original Bento Lunch BoxLeakproof compartments a small child can open without a teacher, which is the whole test for a daycare lunch.
Check price on Amazon →
Name Bubbles Custom Name Labels (95 Labels)Every centre requires everything labelled. Ninety-five waterproof labels covers a full year in one go.
Check price on Amazon →As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Prices change, so check before buying.
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.