Preschool Daycare Cost in Montana
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$140
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$606
Average in Montana
Annual Cost
$7,274
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#30
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Montana: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Montana pay an average of $140 per week ($606/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Montana 14% more affordable 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 Montana, this translates to approximately $7,274 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Montana families can expect to spend around $10,912 on preschool care alone.
Montana ranks #30 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $606 | $7,272 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $485 | $5,820 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $909 | $10,908 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,516 | $18,192 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana (current) | $140 | $606 | — |
| South Dakota | $125 | $541 | $65 less |
| Wyoming | $135 | $585 | $21 less |
| Idaho | $135 | $585 | $21 less |
| North Dakota | $140 | $606 | Same |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Montana?
The average preschool daycare cost in Montana is $140 per week or $606 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Montana around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #30 out of 50 states.
Is Montana expensive for preschool childcare?
Montana is actually 14% below the national average for preschool care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $606/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Montana?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Montana. For preschools, family daycare averages $485/month compared to $606/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Montana until kindergarten?
Based on current Montana rates, you can expect to spend approximately $10,912 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in Montana?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Montana - 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 Montana?
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 Montana's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in Montana?
Preschool-age children in Montana 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 Montana?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Montana. 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 Montana.
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 Montana childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in Montana represents approximately 12% 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.