Toddler Daycare Cost in North Carolina
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$170
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$736
Average in North Carolina
Annual Cost
$8,833
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#26
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in North Carolina: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in North Carolina pay an average of $170 per week ($736/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes North Carolina 10% more affordable 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 North Carolina, this translates to approximately $8,833 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, North Carolina families can expect to spend around $26,500 on toddler care alone.
North Carolina ranks #26 out of 50 states for toddler daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $736 | $8,832 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $589 | $7,068 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,104 | $13,248 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,840 | $22,080 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (current) | $170 | $736 | — |
| Tennessee | $145 | $628 | $108 less |
| South Carolina | $150 | $650 | $86 less |
| Georgia | $160 | $693 | $43 less |
| Virginia | $210 | $909 | $173 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in North Carolina?
The average toddler daycare cost in North Carolina is $170 per week or $736 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes North Carolina around average cost for toddler care nationally, ranking #26 out of 50 states.
Is North Carolina expensive for toddler childcare?
North Carolina is actually 10% below the national average for toddler care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $736/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in North Carolina?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in North Carolina. For toddlers, family daycare averages $589/month compared to $736/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in North Carolina until kindergarten?
Based on current North Carolina rates, you can expect to spend approximately $26,500 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in North Carolina?
For toddlers in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler 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
Toddler care in North Carolina represents approximately 15% 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.