Infant Daycare Cost in Missouri
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$168
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$727
Average in Missouri
Annual Cost
$8,729
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#34
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Missouri: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Missouri pay an average of $168 per week ($727/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Missouri 19% more affordable than 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 Missouri, this translates to approximately $8,729 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Missouri families can expect to spend around $39,282 on infant care alone.
Missouri ranks #34 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $727 | $8,724 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $582 | $6,984 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,091 | $13,092 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,819 | $21,828 | +150% |
How much does infant daycare cost in Missouri?
The average infant daycare cost in Missouri is $168 per week or $727 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Missouri around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #34 out of 50 states.
Is Missouri expensive for infant childcare?
Missouri is actually 19% below the national average for infant care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $727/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Missouri?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Missouri. For infants, family daycare averages $582/month compared to $727/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Missouri until kindergarten?
Based on current Missouri rates, you can expect to spend approximately $39,282 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Missouri?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Missouri - 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 Missouri?
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 Missouri's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Missouri?
Missouri 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 Missouri?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Missouri 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 Missouri.
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 Missouri childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Missouri represents approximately 15% 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.