Preschool Daycare Cost in Virginia
2026 Average Rates for 3-4 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$180
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$779
Average in Virginia
Annual Cost
$9,353
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#19
of 50 states
Preschool Daycare Costs in Virginia: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in Virginia pay an average of $180 per week ($779/month) for full-time preschool daycare center care. This makes Virginia 10% 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 Virginia, this translates to approximately $9,353 annually for center-based care. Over the 1.5 years until kindergarten, Virginia families can expect to spend around $14,029 on preschool care alone.
Virginia ranks #19 out of 50 states for preschool daycare costs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $779 | $9,348 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $624 | $7,488 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $1,169 | $14,028 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,949 | $23,388 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia (current) | $180 | $779 | — |
| West Virginia | $115 | $498 | $281 less |
| Kentucky | $115 | $498 | $281 less |
| Tennessee | $125 | $541 | $238 less |
| North Carolina | $150 | $650 | $129 less |
| Maryland | $205 | $888 | $109 more |
How much does preschool daycare cost in Virginia?
The average preschool daycare cost in Virginia is $180 per week or $779 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes Virginia around average cost for preschool care nationally, ranking #19 out of 50 states.
Is Virginia expensive for preschool childcare?
Yes, Virginia is 10% above the national average for preschool care. You can expect to pay around $779/month compared to the national average of $706/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for preschools in Virginia?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in Virginia. For preschools, family daycare averages $624/month compared to $779/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on preschool care in Virginia until kindergarten?
Based on current Virginia rates, you can expect to spend approximately $14,029 total on preschool care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 1.5 years from 3-4 years).
What factors affect preschool 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 preschool 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 preschools in Virginia?
Preschool-age children in Virginia 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 Virginia?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for preschool care in Virginia. 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 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
Preschool care in Virginia represents approximately 16% 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.