Infant Daycare Cost in Rhode Island
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$265
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,147
Average in Rhode Island
Annual Cost
$13,769
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#11
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Rhode Island: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Rhode Island pay an average of $265 per week ($1147/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Rhode Island 27% 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 Rhode Island, this translates to approximately $13,769 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Rhode Island families can expect to spend around $61,962 on infant care alone.
Rhode Island ranks #11 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $1,147 | $13,764 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $918 | $11,016 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,721 | $20,652 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,869 | $34,428 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island (current) | $265 | $1,147 | — |
| Connecticut | $285 | $1,234 | $87 more |
| Massachusetts | $325 | $1,407 | $260 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Rhode Island?
The average infant daycare cost in Rhode Island is $265 per week or $1147 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Rhode Island around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #11 out of 50 states.
Is Rhode Island expensive for infant childcare?
Yes, Rhode Island is 27% above the national average for infant care. You can expect to pay around $1147/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Rhode Island?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Rhode Island. For infants, family daycare averages $918/month compared to $1147/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Rhode Island until kindergarten?
Based on current Rhode Island rates, you can expect to spend approximately $61,962 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Rhode Island?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Rhode Island - 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 Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.
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 Rhode Island childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Rhode Island represents approximately 23% 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.