Infant Daycare Cost in Maine
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$215
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$931
Average in Maine
Annual Cost
$11,171
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#20
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Maine: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Maine pay an average of $215 per week ($931/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Maine right around 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 Maine, this translates to approximately $11,171 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Maine families can expect to spend around $50,271 on infant care alone.
Maine ranks #20 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $931 | $11,172 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $745 | $8,940 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,396 | $16,752 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,327 | $27,924 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine (current) | $215 | $931 | — |
| New Hampshire | $245 | $1,061 | $130 more |
| Vermont | $245 | $1,061 | $130 more |
| Massachusetts | $325 | $1,407 | $476 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Maine?
The average infant daycare cost in Maine is $215 per week or $931 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Maine around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #20 out of 50 states.
Is Maine expensive for infant childcare?
Maine is right around the national average for infant care costs at $931/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Maine?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Maine. For infants, family daycare averages $745/month compared to $931/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Maine until kindergarten?
Based on current Maine rates, you can expect to spend approximately $50,271 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Maine?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Maine - 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 Maine?
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 Maine's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Maine?
Maine 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 Maine?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Maine 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 Maine.
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 Maine childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Maine represents approximately 19% 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.