Pre-K Daycare Cost in North Carolina
2026 Average Rates for 4-5 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$150
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$650
Average in North Carolina
Annual Cost
$7,794
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#26
of 50 states
Pre-K Daycare Costs in North Carolina: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in North Carolina pay an average of $150 per week ($650/month) for full-time pre-k daycare center care. This makes North Carolina right around the national average for pre-k childcare.
Pre-kindergarten care prepares children for elementary school with higher child-to-teacher ratios. In North Carolina, this translates to approximately $7,794 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, North Carolina families can expect to spend around $11,691 on pre-k care alone.
North Carolina ranks #26 out of 50 states for pre-k daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $650 | $7,800 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $520 | $6,240 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $974 | $11,688 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,624 | $19,488 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (current) | $150 | $650 | — |
| Tennessee | $125 | $541 | $109 less |
| South Carolina | $130 | $563 | $87 less |
| Georgia | $140 | $606 | $44 less |
| Virginia | $180 | $779 | $129 more |
How much does pre-k daycare cost in North Carolina?
The average pre-k daycare cost in North Carolina is $150 per week or $650 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes North Carolina around average cost for pre-k care nationally, ranking #26 out of 50 states.
Is North Carolina expensive for pre-k childcare?
North Carolina is right around the national average for pre-k care costs at $650/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for pre-ks in North Carolina?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in North Carolina. For pre-ks, family daycare averages $520/month compared to $650/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on pre-k care in North Carolina until kindergarten?
Based on current North Carolina rates, you can expect to spend approximately $11,691 total on pre-k care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 4-5 years).
What factors affect pre-k daycare costs in North Carolina?
Key factors include: (1) Location within North Carolina - 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 pre-k daycare costs in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for pre-ks in North Carolina?
Preschool-age children in North Carolina 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 pre-k daycare in North Carolina?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for pre-k care in North Carolina. 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 North Carolina.
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 North Carolina childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Pre-K care in North Carolina represents approximately 13% 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.