Infant Daycare Cost in Louisiana
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$158
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$684
Average in Louisiana
Annual Cost
$8,210
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#40
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Louisiana: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Louisiana pay an average of $158 per week ($684/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Louisiana 24% more affordable than the national average for infant childcare.
Infant care requires the highest caregiver-to-child ratio (typically 1:3 or 1:4), making it the most expensive childcare option. In Louisiana, this translates to approximately $8,210 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Louisiana families can expect to spend around $36,944 on infant care alone.
Louisiana ranks #40 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the Southeast region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $684 | $8,208 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $547 | $6,564 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,026 | $12,312 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,710 | $20,520 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana (current) | $158 | $684 | — |
| Mississippi | $125 | $541 | $143 less |
| Arkansas | $140 | $606 | $78 less |
| Texas | $195 | $844 | $160 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Louisiana?
The average infant daycare cost in Louisiana is $158 per week or $684 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Louisiana one of the most affordable for infant care nationally, ranking #40 out of 50 states.
Is Louisiana expensive for infant childcare?
Louisiana is actually 24% below the national average for infant care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $684/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Louisiana?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Louisiana. For infants, family daycare averages $547/month compared to $684/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Louisiana until kindergarten?
Based on current Louisiana rates, you can expect to spend approximately $36,944 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Louisiana?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Louisiana - 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 infant daycare costs in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Louisiana?
Louisiana 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 infant daycare in Louisiana?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Louisiana 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 Louisiana.
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 Louisiana childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Louisiana 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.