Preschool Daycare Cost in Maine
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$165
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$714
Average in Maine
Annual Cost
$8,573
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#21
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Maine: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Maine pay an average of $165 per week ($714/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Maine right around the national average for preschool childcare.
Preschool-age care (3-4 years) is the most affordable option with ratios around 1:8 to 1:10. In Maine, this translates to approximately $8,573 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Maine families can expect to spend around $12,860 on preschool care alone.
Maine ranks #21 out of 50 states for preschool 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% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine (current) | $165 | $714 | — |
| New Hampshire | $185 | $801 | $87 more |
| Vermont | $185 | $801 | $87 more |
| Massachusetts | $255 | $1,104 | $390 more |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Maine?
The average preschool daycare cost in Maine is $165 per week or $714 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Maine around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #21 out of 50 states.
Is Maine expensive for preschool childcare?
Maine is right around the national average for preschool care costs at $714/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Maine?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Maine. For preschools, family daycare averages $572/month compared to $714/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Maine until kindergarten?
Based on current Maine rates, you can expect to spend approximately $12,860 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool 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 preschool 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 preschools in Maine?
Preschool-age children in Maine benefit from ratios around 1:8 to 1:10, making this the most affordable age for daycare as one caregiver can supervise more children.
When should I start looking for preschool daycare in Maine?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Maine. 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 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
Preschool care in Maine 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.