Baby Daycare Cost in Nebraska
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$165
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$714
Average in Nebraska
Annual Cost
$8,573
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#36
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Nebraska: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Nebraska pay an average of $165 per week ($714/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Nebraska 21% 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 Nebraska, this translates to approximately $8,573 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Nebraska families can expect to spend around $38,580 on baby care alone.
Nebraska ranks #36 out of 50 states for baby daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $714 | $8,568 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $572 | $6,864 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,072 | $12,864 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,786 | $21,432 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nebraska (current) | $165 | $714 | — |
| South Dakota | $155 | $671 | $43 less |
| Iowa | $155 | $671 | $43 less |
| Kansas | $160 | $693 | $21 less |
| Missouri | $168 | $727 | $13 more |
| Colorado | $268 | $1,160 | $446 more |
How much does baby daycare cost in Nebraska?
The average baby daycare cost in Nebraska is $165 per week or $714 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Nebraska around average cost for baby care nationally, ranking #36 out of 50 states.
Is Nebraska expensive for baby childcare?
Nebraska is actually 21% below the national average for baby care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $714/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Nebraska?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Nebraska. For babys, family daycare averages $572/month compared to $714/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Nebraska until kindergarten?
Based on current Nebraska rates, you can expect to spend approximately $38,580 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Nebraska?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Nebraska - 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 Nebraska?
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 Nebraska's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Nebraska?
Nebraska 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 Nebraska?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Nebraska 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 Nebraska.
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 Nebraska childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Nebraska represents approximately 14% 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.