Preschool Daycare Cost in Vermont
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$185
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$801
Average in Vermont
Annual Cost
$9,613
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#16
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Vermont: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Vermont pay an average of $185 per week ($801/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Vermont 13% more expensive than 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 Vermont, this translates to approximately $9,613 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Vermont families can expect to spend around $14,419 on preschool care alone.
Vermont ranks #16 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $801 | $9,612 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $641 | $7,692 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,202 | $14,424 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,003 | $24,036 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont (current) | $185 | $801 | , |
| New Hampshire | $185 | $801 | Same |
| New York | $245 | $1,061 | $260 more |
| Massachusetts | $255 | $1,104 | $303 more |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Vermont?
The average preschool daycare cost in Vermont is $185 per week or $801 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Vermont around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #16 out of 50 states.
Is Vermont expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, Vermont is 13% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $801/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Vermont?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Vermont. For preschools, family daycare averages $641/month compared to $801/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Vermont until kindergarten?
Based on current Vermont rates, you can expect to spend approximately $14,419 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool daycare costs in Vermont?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Vermont - 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 Vermont?
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 Vermont's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for preschools in Vermont?
Preschool-age children in Vermont 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 Vermont?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Vermont. 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 Vermont.
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 Vermont childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Preschool care in Vermont represents approximately 16% of median household income.
What you actually have to buy before day one
Tuition is only part of the cost. Centres in Vermont send a supply list with enrolment, and these four are on nearly every one of them.
Makemake Organics Organic Cotton Nap MatGOTS-certified with a removable, washable cover, which is what decides whether a mat survives a year of daily use.
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Skip Hop Sparks Kid's BackpackSized for a preschooler rather than a school-age child, so it actually fits a classroom cubby.
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Yumbox Original Bento Lunch BoxLeakproof compartments a small child can open without a teacher, which is the whole test for a daycare lunch.
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Name Bubbles Custom Name Labels (95 Labels)Every centre requires everything labelled. Ninety-five waterproof labels covers a full year in one go.
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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.