Infant Daycare Cost in Virginia
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$235
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$1,018
Average in Virginia
Annual Cost
$12,211
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#19
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in Virginia: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Virginia pay an average of $235 per week ($1018/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes Virginia 13% more expensive than the national average for infant childcare.
Infant care requires the highest caregiver-to-child ratio (typically 1:3 or 1:4), making it the most expensive childcare option. In Virginia, this translates to approximately $12,211 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, Virginia families can expect to spend around $54,948 on infant care alone.
Virginia ranks #19 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $1,018 | $12,216 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $814 | $9,768 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,526 | $18,312 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $2,544 | $30,528 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia (current) | $235 | $1,018 | — |
| West Virginia | $135 | $585 | $433 less |
| Kentucky | $145 | $628 | $390 less |
| Tennessee | $155 | $671 | $347 less |
| North Carolina | $185 | $801 | $217 less |
| Maryland | $275 | $1,191 | $173 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in Virginia?
The average infant daycare cost in Virginia is $235 per week or $1018 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Virginia around average cost for infant care nationally, ranking #19 out of 50 states.
Is Virginia expensive for infant childcare?
Yes, Virginia is 13% above the national average for infant care. You can expect to pay around $1018/month compared to the national average of $901/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in Virginia?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Virginia. For infants, family daycare averages $814/month compared to $1018/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in Virginia until kindergarten?
Based on current Virginia rates, you can expect to spend approximately $54,948 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in Virginia?
Key factors include: (1) Location within Virginia - 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 infant daycare costs in Virginia?
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 Virginia's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in Virginia?
Virginia 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 infant daycare in Virginia?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. Virginia 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 Virginia.
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 Virginia childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in Virginia represents approximately 20% 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.