Toddler Daycare Cost in Tennessee
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$145
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$628
Average in Tennessee
Annual Cost
$7,534
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#44
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in Tennessee: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Tennessee pay an average of $145 per week ($628/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes Tennessee 23% 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 Tennessee, this translates to approximately $7,534 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, Tennessee families can expect to spend around $22,603 on toddler care alone.
Tennessee ranks #44 out of 50 states for toddler daycare costs. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the Southeast region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $628 | $7,536 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $502 | $6,024 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $942 | $11,304 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,570 | $18,840 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee (current) | $145 | $628 | — |
| Kentucky | $135 | $585 | $43 less |
| Alabama | $140 | $606 | $22 less |
| Georgia | $160 | $693 | $65 more |
| North Carolina | $170 | $736 | $108 more |
| Virginia | $210 | $909 | $281 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in Tennessee?
The average toddler daycare cost in Tennessee is $145 per week or $628 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Tennessee one of the most affordable for toddler care nationally, ranking #44 out of 50 states.
Is Tennessee expensive for toddler childcare?
Tennessee is actually 23% below the national average for toddler care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $628/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in Tennessee?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Tennessee. For toddlers, family daycare averages $502/month compared to $628/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in Tennessee until kindergarten?
Based on current Tennessee rates, you can expect to spend approximately $22,603 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler daycare costs in Tennessee?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Tennessee - 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 Tennessee?
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 Tennessee's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for toddlers in Tennessee?
For toddlers in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler care in Tennessee. 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 Tennessee.
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 Tennessee childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Toddler care in Tennessee represents approximately 13% 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.