Toddler Daycare Cost in Maine
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$195
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$844
Average in Maine
Annual Cost
$10,132
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#20
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in Maine: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Maine pay an average of $195 per week ($844/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes Maine right around 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 Maine, this translates to approximately $10,132 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, Maine families can expect to spend around $30,397 on toddler care alone.
Maine ranks #20 out of 50 states for toddler daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $844 | $10,128 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $675 | $8,100 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,267 | $15,204 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,111 | $25,332 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maine (current) | $195 | $844 | — |
| New Hampshire | $225 | $974 | $130 more |
| Vermont | $225 | $974 | $130 more |
| Massachusetts | $295 | $1,277 | $433 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in Maine?
The average toddler daycare cost in Maine is $195 per week or $844 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Maine around average cost for toddler care nationally, ranking #20 out of 50 states.
Is Maine expensive for toddler childcare?
Maine is right around the national average for toddler care costs at $844/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in Maine?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Maine. For toddlers, family daycare averages $675/month compared to $844/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in Maine until kindergarten?
Based on current Maine rates, you can expect to spend approximately $30,397 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in Maine?
For toddlers in Maine, 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 Maine?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler 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
Toddler care in Maine represents approximately 17% 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.