All States
California Childcare Costs (2026)
Average daycare prices for center-based and family care
Infant Center
$18,201
$1,517/mo
Toddler Center
$16,000
$1,333/mo
Infant Family
$12,268
$1,022/mo
Toddler Family
$11,520
$960/mo
% of Median Income
19.8%
How California Compares
vs. National Average
32% above
vs. College Tuition
$8,401 more
Family vs. Center Savings
$5,933/yr savings
Tax Credits & Subsidies
All California families can claim the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC): 20-35% of up to $3,000 for one child or $6,000 for two or more (max credit: $1,050-$2,100). If your employer offers a Dependent Care FSA, you can save up to $5,000 pre-tax per year for childcare.