Toddler Daycare Cost in Florida
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$165
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$714
Average in Florida
Annual Cost
$8,573
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#28
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in Florida: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Florida pay an average of $165 per week ($714/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes Florida 13% more affordable 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 Florida, this translates to approximately $8,573 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, Florida families can expect to spend around $25,720 on toddler care alone.
Florida ranks #28 out of 50 states for toddler daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $714 | $8,568 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $572 | $6,864 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,072 | $12,864 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,786 | $21,432 | +150% |
How much does toddler daycare cost in Florida?
The average toddler daycare cost in Florida is $165 per week or $714 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Florida around average cost for toddler care nationally, ranking #28 out of 50 states.
Is Florida expensive for toddler childcare?
Florida is actually 13% below the national average for toddler care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $714/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in Florida?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Florida. For toddlers, family daycare averages $572/month compared to $714/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in Florida until kindergarten?
Based on current Florida rates, you can expect to spend approximately $25,720 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler daycare costs in Florida?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Florida - 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 Florida?
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 Florida's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for toddlers in Florida?
For toddlers in Florida, 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 Florida?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler care in Florida. 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 Florida.
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 Florida childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Toddler care in Florida represents approximately 14% 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.