Toddler Daycare Cost in New Jersey
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$265
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,147
Average in New Jersey
Annual Cost
$13,769
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#6
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in New Jersey: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in New Jersey pay an average of $265 per week ($1147/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes New Jersey 40% more expensive than the national average for toddler childcare.
Toddler care (ages 1-2) costs slightly less than infant care as ratios increase to around 1:4 or 1:5. In New Jersey, this translates to approximately $13,769 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, New Jersey families can expect to spend around $41,308 on toddler care alone.
New Jersey ranks #6 out of 50 states for toddler 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 | $1,147 | $13,764 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $918 | $11,016 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,721 | $20,652 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,869 | $34,428 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Jersey (current) | $265 | $1,147 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $210 | $909 | $238 less |
| Delaware | $215 | $931 | $216 less |
| New York | $285 | $1,234 | $87 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in New Jersey?
The average toddler daycare cost in New Jersey is $265 per week or $1147 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes New Jersey one of the most expensive for toddler care nationally, ranking #6 out of 50 states.
Is New Jersey expensive for toddler childcare?
Yes, New Jersey is 40% above the national average for toddler care. You can expect to pay around $1147/month compared to the national average of $818/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in New Jersey?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in New Jersey. For toddlers, family daycare averages $918/month compared to $1147/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in New Jersey until kindergarten?
Based on current New Jersey rates, you can expect to spend approximately $41,308 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in New Jersey?
For toddlers in New Jersey, the typical ratio is 1:4 to 1:6, which allows for slightly lower costs than infant care while still ensuring proper supervision.
When should I start looking for toddler daycare in New Jersey?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler 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
Toddler care in New Jersey represents approximately 23% 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.