Baby Daycare Cost in North Dakota
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$175
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$758
Average in North Dakota
Annual Cost
$9,093
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#31
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in North Dakota: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in North Dakota pay an average of $175 per week ($758/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes North Dakota 16% more affordable than the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In North Dakota, this translates to approximately $9,093 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, North Dakota families can expect to spend around $40,919 on baby care alone.
North Dakota ranks #31 out of 50 states for baby daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $758 | $9,096 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $606 | $7,272 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,137 | $13,644 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,894 | $22,728 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota (current) | $175 | $758 | — |
| South Dakota | $155 | $671 | $87 less |
| Montana | $175 | $758 | Same |
| Minnesota | $255 | $1,104 | $346 more |
How much does baby daycare cost in North Dakota?
The average baby daycare cost in North Dakota is $175 per week or $758 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes North Dakota around average cost for baby care nationally, ranking #31 out of 50 states.
Is North Dakota expensive for baby childcare?
North Dakota is actually 16% below the national average for baby care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $758/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in North Dakota?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in North Dakota. For babys, family daycare averages $606/month compared to $758/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in North Dakota until kindergarten?
Based on current North Dakota rates, you can expect to spend approximately $40,919 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in North Dakota?
Key factors include: (1) Location within North Dakota - 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 North Dakota?
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 Dakota's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in North Dakota?
North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. North Dakota 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 North Dakota.
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 Dakota childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in North Dakota 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.