Preschool Daycare Cost in New Jersey
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$225
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$974
Average in New Jersey
Annual Cost
$11,691
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#6
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in New Jersey: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in New Jersey pay an average of $225 per week ($974/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes New Jersey 38% 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 New Jersey, this translates to approximately $11,691 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, New Jersey families can expect to spend around $17,537 on preschool care alone.
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs. This places it among the most expensive states for childcare in the Northeast region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $974 | $11,688 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $779 | $9,348 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,461 | $17,532 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,436 | $29,232 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey (current) | $225 | $974 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $180 | $779 | $195 less |
| Delaware | $185 | $801 | $173 less |
| New York | $245 | $1,061 | $87 more |
How much does preschool daycare cost in New Jersey?
The average preschool daycare cost in New Jersey is $225 per week or $974 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes New Jersey one of the most expensive for preschool care nationally, ranking #6 out of 50 states.
Is New Jersey expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, New Jersey is 38% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $974/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in New Jersey?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in New Jersey. For preschools, family daycare averages $779/month compared to $974/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in New Jersey until kindergarten?
Based on current New Jersey rates, you can expect to spend approximately $17,537 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in New Jersey?
Key factors include: (1) Location within New Jersey - 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 New Jersey?
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 New Jersey's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in New Jersey?
Preschool-age children in New Jersey 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 New Jersey?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in New Jersey. 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 New Jersey.
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 New Jersey childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in New Jersey represents approximately 19% 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.