Toddler Daycare Cost in Texas
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$175
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$758
Average in Texas
Annual Cost
$9,093
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#25
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in Texas: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Texas pay an average of $175 per week ($758/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes Texas right around 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 Texas, this translates to approximately $9,093 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, Texas families can expect to spend around $27,279 on toddler care alone.
Texas ranks #25 out of 50 states for toddler daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $758 | $9,096 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $606 | $7,272 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,137 | $13,644 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,894 | $22,728 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas (current) | $175 | $758 | — |
| Oklahoma | $135 | $585 | $173 less |
| Arkansas | $135 | $585 | $173 less |
| New Mexico | $145 | $628 | $130 less |
| Louisiana | $145 | $628 | $130 less |
How much does toddler daycare cost in Texas?
The average toddler daycare cost in Texas is $175 per week or $758 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Texas around average cost for toddler care nationally, ranking #25 out of 50 states.
Is Texas expensive for toddler childcare?
Texas is right around the national average for toddler care costs at $758/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in Texas?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Texas. For toddlers, family daycare averages $606/month compared to $758/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in Texas until kindergarten?
Based on current Texas rates, you can expect to spend approximately $27,279 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in Texas?
For toddlers in Texas, 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 Texas?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler care in Texas. 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 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
Toddler care in Texas represents approximately 15% 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.