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District of Columbia Childcare Costs (2026)
Average daycare prices for center-based and family care
Infant Center
$24,243
$2,020/mo
Toddler Center
$22,000
$1,833/mo
Infant Family
$17,455
$1,455/mo
Toddler Family
$15,840
$1,320/mo
% of Median Income
23.8%
How District of Columbia Compares
vs. National Average
75% above
vs. College Tuition
$18,043 more
Family vs. Center Savings
$6,788/yr savings
Free Universal Pre-K Available
District of Columbia offers free pre-K for all 4-year-olds, which can save families thousands per year.
Tax Credits & Subsidies
All District of Columbia 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.