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North Carolina Childcare Costs (2026)
Average daycare prices for center-based and family care
Infant Center
$12,370
$1,031/mo
Toddler Center
$9,591
$799/mo
Infant Family
$8,906
$742/mo
Toddler Family
$6,906
$576/mo
% of Median Income
18.7%
How North Carolina Compares
vs. National Average
11% below
vs. College Tuition
$5,170 more
Family vs. Center Savings
$3,464/yr savings
Tax Credits & Subsidies
All North Carolina 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.