Preschool Daycare Cost in Delaware
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$185
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$801
Average in Delaware
Annual Cost
$9,613
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#12
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Delaware: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Delaware pay an average of $185 per week ($801/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Delaware 13% 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 Delaware, this translates to approximately $9,613 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Delaware families can expect to spend around $14,419 on preschool care alone.
Delaware ranks #12 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $801 | $9,612 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $641 | $7,692 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,202 | $14,424 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,003 | $24,036 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware (current) | $185 | $801 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $180 | $779 | $22 less |
| Maryland | $205 | $888 | $87 more |
| New Jersey | $225 | $974 | $173 more |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Delaware?
The average preschool daycare cost in Delaware is $185 per week or $801 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Delaware around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #12 out of 50 states.
Is Delaware expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, Delaware is 13% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $801/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Delaware?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Delaware. For preschools, family daycare averages $641/month compared to $801/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Delaware until kindergarten?
Based on current Delaware rates, you can expect to spend approximately $14,419 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in Delaware?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Delaware - 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 Delaware?
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 Delaware's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in Delaware?
Preschool-age children in Delaware 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 Delaware?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Delaware. 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 Delaware.
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 Delaware childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in Delaware represents approximately 16% 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.