Baby Daycare Cost in Colorado
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$268
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,160
Average in Colorado
Annual Cost
$13,925
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#10
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Colorado: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Colorado pay an average of $268 per week ($1160/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Colorado 29% more expensive than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In Colorado, this translates to approximately $13,925 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Colorado families can expect to spend around $62,664 on baby care alone.
Colorado ranks #10 out of 50 states for baby 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 | $1,160 | $13,920 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $928 | $11,136 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,741 | $20,892 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,901 | $34,812 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado (current) | $268 | $1,160 | — |
| Oklahoma | $145 | $628 | $532 less |
| New Mexico | $158 | $684 | $476 less |
| Kansas | $160 | $693 | $467 less |
| Wyoming | $165 | $714 | $446 less |
| Nebraska | $165 | $714 | $446 less |
How much does baby daycare cost in Colorado?
The average baby daycare cost in Colorado is $268 per week or $1160 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Colorado one of the most expensive for baby care nationally, ranking #10 out of 50 states.
Is Colorado expensive for baby childcare?
Yes, Colorado is 29% above the national average for baby care. You can expect to pay around $1160/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Colorado?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Colorado. For babys, family daycare averages $928/month compared to $1160/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Colorado until kindergarten?
Based on current Colorado rates, you can expect to spend approximately $62,664 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Colorado?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Colorado - 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 baby daycare costs in Colorado?
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 Colorado's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Colorado?
Colorado 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 baby daycare in Colorado?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Colorado 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 Colorado.
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 Colorado childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Colorado represents approximately 23% 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.