Infant Daycare Cost in Pennsylvania
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$235
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,018
Average in Pennsylvania
Annual Cost
$12,211
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#18
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Pennsylvania: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Pennsylvania pay an average of $235 per week ($1018/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Pennsylvania 13% more expensive than the national average for infant childcare.
Infant care requires the highest caregiver-to-child ratio (typically 1:3 or 1:4), making it the most expensive childcare option. In Pennsylvania, this translates to approximately $12,211 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Pennsylvania families can expect to spend around $54,948 on infant care alone.
Pennsylvania ranks #18 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $1,018 | $12,216 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $814 | $9,768 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,526 | $18,312 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,544 | $30,528 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania (current) | $235 | $1,018 | — |
| West Virginia | $135 | $585 | $433 less |
| Delaware | $245 | $1,061 | $43 more |
| Maryland | $275 | $1,191 | $173 more |
| New Jersey | $295 | $1,277 | $259 more |
| New York | $315 | $1,364 | $346 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Pennsylvania?
The average infant daycare cost in Pennsylvania is $235 per week or $1018 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Pennsylvania around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #18 out of 50 states.
Is Pennsylvania expensive for infant childcare?
Yes, Pennsylvania is 13% above the national average for infant care. You can expect to pay around $1018/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Pennsylvania?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Pennsylvania. For infants, family daycare averages $814/month compared to $1018/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Pennsylvania until kindergarten?
Based on current Pennsylvania rates, you can expect to spend approximately $54,948 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Pennsylvania?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Pennsylvania - 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 infant daycare costs in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 infant daycare in Pennsylvania?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania.
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 Pennsylvania childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Pennsylvania represents approximately 20% 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.