Toddler Daycare Cost in West Virginia
2026 Average Rates for 1-2 years Childcare
Last updated: 2026
Weekly Cost
$125
Full-time daycare center
Monthly Cost
$541
Average in West Virginia
Annual Cost
$6,495
Per year estimate
State Ranking
#49
of 50 states
Toddler Daycare Costs in West Virginia: What Parents Pay in 2026
Parents in West Virginia pay an average of $125 per week ($541/month) for full-time toddler daycare center care. This makes West Virginia 34% more affordable than the national average for toddler childcare.
Toddler care (ages 1-2) costs slightly less than infant care as ratios increase to around 1:4 or 1:5. In West Virginia, this translates to approximately $6,495 annually for center-based care. Over the 3 years until kindergarten, West Virginia families can expect to spend around $19,485 on toddler care alone.
West Virginia ranks #49 out of 50 states for toddler 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 | $541 | $6,492 | Base rate |
| Family Daycare | $433 | $5,196 | -20% |
| Nanny (Shared) | $812 | $9,744 | +50% |
| Exclusive Nanny | $1,353 | $16,236 | +150% |
| State | Weekly | Monthly | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia (current) | $125 | $541 | — |
| Kentucky | $135 | $585 | $44 more |
| Ohio | $160 | $693 | $152 more |
| Pennsylvania | $210 | $909 | $368 more |
| Virginia | $210 | $909 | $368 more |
| Maryland | $245 | $1,061 | $520 more |
How much does toddler daycare cost in West Virginia?
The average toddler daycare cost in West Virginia is $125 per week or $541 per month for full-time center-based care. This makes West Virginia one of the most affordable for toddler care nationally, ranking #49 out of 50 states.
Is West Virginia expensive for toddler childcare?
West Virginia is actually 34% below the national average for toddler care, making it a relatively affordable state for childcare at $541/month.
What's cheaper: daycare center or family daycare for toddlers in West Virginia?
Family daycare is typically 20% cheaper than daycare centers in West Virginia. For toddlers, family daycare averages $433/month compared to $541/month for center-based care.
How much will I spend on toddler care in West Virginia until kindergarten?
Based on current West Virginia rates, you can expect to spend approximately $19,485 total on toddler care until your child reaches kindergarten (about 3 years from 1-2 years).
What factors affect toddler 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 toddler 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 toddlers in West Virginia?
For toddlers in West Virginia, the typical ratio is 1:4 to 1:6, which allows for slightly lower costs than infant care while still ensuring proper supervision.
When should I start looking for toddler daycare in West Virginia?
Start your search 3-6 months in advance for toddler care in West 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 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
Toddler care in West Virginia represents approximately 11% 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.