Preschool Daycare Cost in Utah
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$150
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$650
Average in Utah
Annual Cost
$7,794
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#27
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Utah: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Utah pay an average of $150 per week ($650/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Utah right around the national average for preschool childcare.
Preschool-age care (3-4 years) is the most affordable option with ratios around 1:8 to 1:10. In Utah, this translates to approximately $7,794 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Utah families can expect to spend around $11,691 on preschool care alone.
Utah ranks #27 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $650 | $7,800 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $520 | $6,240 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $974 | $11,688 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,624 | $19,488 | +150% |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Utah?
The average preschool daycare cost in Utah is $150 per week or $650 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Utah around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #27 out of 50 states.
Is Utah expensive for preschool childcare?
Utah is right around the national average for preschool care costs at $650/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Utah?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Utah. For preschools, family daycare averages $520/month compared to $650/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Utah until kindergarten?
Based on current Utah rates, you can expect to spend approximately $11,691 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in Utah?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Utah - 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 preschool daycare costs in Utah?
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 Utah's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in Utah?
Preschool-age children in Utah benefit from ratios around 1:8 to 1:10, making this the most affordable age for daycare as one caregiver can supervise more children.
When should I start looking for preschool daycare in Utah?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Utah. 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 Utah.
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 Utah childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in Utah 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.