Preschool Daycare Cost in Minnesota
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$185
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$801
Average in Minnesota
Annual Cost
$9,613
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#13
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Minnesota: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Minnesota pay an average of $185 per week ($801/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Minnesota 13% more expensive than 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 Minnesota, this translates to approximately $9,613 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Minnesota families can expect to spend around $14,419 on preschool care alone.
Minnesota ranks #13 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $801 | $9,612 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $641 | $7,692 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,202 | $14,424 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,003 | $24,036 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota (current) | $185 | $801 | — |
| Iowa | $125 | $541 | $260 less |
| South Dakota | $125 | $541 | $260 less |
| North Dakota | $140 | $606 | $195 less |
| Wisconsin | $165 | $714 | $87 less |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Minnesota?
The average preschool daycare cost in Minnesota is $185 per week or $801 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Minnesota around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #13 out of 50 states.
Is Minnesota expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, Minnesota is 13% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $801/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Minnesota?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Minnesota. For preschools, family daycare averages $641/month compared to $801/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Minnesota until kindergarten?
Based on current Minnesota rates, you can expect to spend approximately $14,419 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in Minnesota?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Minnesota - 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 Minnesota?
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 Minnesota's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in Minnesota?
Preschool-age children in Minnesota 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 Minnesota?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Minnesota. 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 Minnesota.
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 Minnesota childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in Minnesota represents approximately 16% 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.