Baby Daycare Cost in Indiana
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$170
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$736
Average in Indiana
Annual Cost
$8,833
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#33
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Indiana: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Indiana pay an average of $170 per week ($736/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Indiana 18% more affordable than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In Indiana, this translates to approximately $8,833 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Indiana families can expect to spend around $39,749 on baby care alone.
Indiana ranks #33 out of 50 states for baby daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $736 | $8,832 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $589 | $7,068 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,104 | $13,248 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,840 | $22,080 | +150% |
How much does baby daycare cost in Indiana?
The average baby daycare cost in Indiana is $170 per week or $736 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Indiana around average cost for baby care nationally, ranking #33 out of 50 states.
Is Indiana expensive for baby childcare?
Indiana is actually 18% below the national average for baby care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $736/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Indiana?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Indiana. For babys, family daycare averages $589/month compared to $736/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Indiana until kindergarten?
Based on current Indiana rates, you can expect to spend approximately $39,749 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Indiana?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Indiana - 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 Indiana?
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 Indiana's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Indiana?
Indiana 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 Indiana?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Indiana 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 Indiana.
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 Indiana childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Indiana represents approximately 15% 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.