Toddler Daycare Cost in Hawaii
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$275
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,191
Average in Hawaii
Annual Cost
$14,289
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#4
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in Hawaii: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Hawaii pay an average of $275 per week ($1191/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes Hawaii 46% 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 Hawaii, this translates to approximately $14,289 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, Hawaii families can expect to spend around $42,867 on toddler care alone.
Hawaii ranks #4 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 | $1,191 | $14,292 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $953 | $11,436 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,786 | $21,432 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,977 | $35,724 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hawaii (current) | $275 | $1,191 | — |
| Alaska | $252 | $1,091 | $100 less |
| California | $285 | $1,234 | $43 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in Hawaii?
The average toddler daycare cost in Hawaii is $275 per week or $1191 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Hawaii one of the most expensive for toddler care nationally, ranking #4 out of 50 states.
Is Hawaii expensive for toddler childcare?
Yes, Hawaii is 46% above the national average for toddler care. You can expect to pay around $1191/month compared to the national average of $818/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in Hawaii?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Hawaii. For toddlers, family daycare averages $953/month compared to $1191/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in Hawaii until kindergarten?
Based on current Hawaii rates, you can expect to spend approximately $42,867 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler daycare costs in Hawaii?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Hawaii - 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 Hawaii?
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 Hawaii's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for toddlers in Hawaii?
For toddlers in Hawaii, 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 Hawaii?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler care in Hawaii. 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 Hawaii.
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 Hawaii childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Toddler care in Hawaii represents approximately 24% 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.