Infant Daycare Cost in South Carolina
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$165
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$714
Average in South Carolina
Annual Cost
$8,573
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#37
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in South Carolina: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in South Carolina pay an average of $165 per week ($714/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes South Carolina 21% more affordable 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 South Carolina, this translates to approximately $8,573 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, South Carolina families can expect to spend around $38,580 on infant care alone.
South Carolina ranks #37 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $714 | $8,568 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $572 | $6,864 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,072 | $12,864 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,786 | $21,432 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina (current) | $165 | $714 | — |
| Georgia | $175 | $758 | $44 more |
| North Carolina | $185 | $801 | $87 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in South Carolina?
The average infant daycare cost in South Carolina is $165 per week or $714 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes South Carolina around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #37 out of 50 states.
Is South Carolina expensive for infant childcare?
South Carolina is actually 21% below the national average for infant care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $714/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in South Carolina?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in South Carolina. For infants, family daycare averages $572/month compared to $714/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in South Carolina until kindergarten?
Based on current South Carolina rates, you can expect to spend approximately $38,580 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in South Carolina?
Key factors include: (1) Location within South 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 infant daycare costs in South 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 South Carolina's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in South Carolina?
South Carolina 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 South Carolina?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. South Carolina 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 South 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 South Carolina childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in South Carolina represents approximately 14% 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.