Baby Daycare Cost in New York
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$315
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,364
Average in New York
Annual Cost
$16,367
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#2
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in New York: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in New York pay an average of $315 per week ($1364/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes New York 51% more expensive than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In New York, this translates to approximately $16,367 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, New York families can expect to spend around $73,653 on baby care alone.
New York ranks #2 out of 50 states for baby 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 | $1,364 | $16,368 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $1,091 | $13,092 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $2,046 | $24,552 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $3,410 | $40,920 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York (current) | $315 | $1,364 | — |
| Pennsylvania | $235 | $1,018 | $346 less |
| Vermont | $245 | $1,061 | $303 less |
| Connecticut | $285 | $1,234 | $130 less |
| New Jersey | $295 | $1,277 | $87 less |
| Massachusetts | $325 | $1,407 | $43 more |
How much does baby daycare cost in New York?
The average baby daycare cost in New York is $315 per week or $1364 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes New York one of the most expensive for baby care nationally, ranking #2 out of 50 states.
Is New York expensive for baby childcare?
Yes, New York is 51% above the national average for baby care. You can expect to pay around $1364/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in New York?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in New York. For babys, family daycare averages $1091/month compared to $1364/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in New York until kindergarten?
Based on current New York rates, you can expect to spend approximately $73,653 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in New York?
Key factors include: (1) Location within New York - 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 New York?
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 York's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in New York?
New York 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 New York?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. New York 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 New York.
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 York childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in New York represents approximately 27% 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.