Baby Daycare Cost in Texas
2026 Average Rates for 6-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$195
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$844
Average in Texas
Annual Cost
$10,132
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#25
of 50 states
Baby Daycare Costs in Texas: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Texas pay an average of $195 per week ($844/month) for full-time baby daycare center care. This makes Texas right around the national average for baby childcare.
Baby care for children 6-12 months old requires specialized attention and lower caregiver ratios. In Texas, this translates to approximately $10,132 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Texas families can expect to spend around $45,595 on baby care alone.
Texas ranks #25 out of 50 states for baby daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $844 | $10,128 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $675 | $8,100 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,267 | $15,204 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,111 | $25,332 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas (current) | $195 | $844 | — |
| Arkansas | $140 | $606 | $238 less |
| Oklahoma | $145 | $628 | $216 less |
| New Mexico | $158 | $684 | $160 less |
| Louisiana | $158 | $684 | $160 less |
How much does baby daycare cost in Texas?
The average baby daycare cost in Texas is $195 per week or $844 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Texas around average cost for baby care nationally, ranking #25 out of 50 states.
Is Texas expensive for baby childcare?
Texas is right around the national average for baby care costs at $844/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for babys in Texas?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Texas. For babys, family daycare averages $675/month compared to $844/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on baby care in Texas until kindergarten?
Based on current Texas rates, you can expect to spend approximately $45,595 total on baby care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 6-12 months).
What factors affect baby daycare costs in Texas?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Texas - 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 Texas?
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 Texas's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for babys in Texas?
Texas 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 Texas?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Texas 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 Texas.
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 Texas childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Baby care in Texas represents approximately 17% 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.