Baby Daycare Cost in Mississippi
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$125
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$541
Average in Mississippi
Annual Cost
$6,495
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#50
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Mississippi: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Mississippi pay an average of $125 per week ($541/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Mississippi 40% more affordable than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In Mississippi, this translates to approximately $6,495 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Mississippi families can expect to spend around $29,228 on baby care alone.
Mississippi ranks #50 out of 50 states for baby 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 | $541 | $6,492 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $433 | $5,196 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $812 | $9,744 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,353 | $16,236 | +150% |
How much does baby daycare cost in Mississippi?
The average baby daycare cost in Mississippi is $125 per week or $541 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Mississippi one of the most affordable for baby care nationally, ranking #50 out of 50 states.
Is Mississippi expensive for baby childcare?
Mississippi is actually 40% below the national average for baby care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $541/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Mississippi?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Mississippi. For babys, family daycare averages $433/month compared to $541/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Mississippi until kindergarten?
Based on current Mississippi rates, you can expect to spend approximately $29,228 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Mississippi?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Mississippi - 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 baby daycare costs in Mississippi?
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 Mississippi's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Mississippi?
Mississippi 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 baby daycare in Mississippi?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Mississippi 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 Mississippi.
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 Mississippi childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Mississippi represents approximately 11% 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.