Infant Daycare Cost in West Virginia
2026 Average Rates for 0-12 months Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$135
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$585
Average in West Virginia
Annual Cost
$7,015
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#49
of 50 states
Infant Daycare Costs in West Virginia: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in West Virginia pay an average of $135 per week ($585/month) for full-time infant daycare center care. This makes West Virginia 35% more affordable 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 West Virginia, this translates to approximately $7,015 annually for center-based care. Over the 4.5 years until kindergarten, West Virginia families can expect to spend around $31,566 on infant care alone.
West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for infant daycare costs. This makes it one of the more affordable options in the Southeast region.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost | vs. Daycare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $585 | $7,020 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $468 | $5,616 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $877 | $10,524 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,461 | $17,532 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia (current) | $135 | $585 | — |
| Kentucky | $145 | $628 | $43 more |
| Ohio | $175 | $758 | $173 more |
| Pennsylvania | $235 | $1,018 | $433 more |
| Virginia | $235 | $1,018 | $433 more |
| Maryland | $275 | $1,191 | $606 more |
How much does infant daycare cost in West Virginia?
The average infant daycare cost in West Virginia is $135 per week or $585 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes West Virginia one of the most affordable for infant care nationally, ranking #49 out of 50 states.
Is West Virginia expensive for infant childcare?
West Virginia is actually 35% below the national average for infant care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $585/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for infants in West Virginia?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in West Virginia. For infants, family daycare averages $468/month compared to $585/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on infant care in West Virginia until kindergarten?
Based on current West Virginia rates, you can expect to spend approximately $31,566 total on infant care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 4.5 years from 0-12 months).
What factors affect infant daycare costs in West Virginia?
Key factors include: (1) Location within West 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 West 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 West Virginia's childcare assistance programs if you qualify.
What's the caregiver-to-child ratio for infants in West Virginia?
West 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 West Virginia?
Start looking 6-12 months before you need care. West 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 West 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 West Virginia childcare assistance programs
- Look for employer childcare benefits
Budget Impact
Infant care in West Virginia represents approximately 12% 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.