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South Carolina Childcare Costs (2026)

Average daycare prices for center-based and family care

Infant Center
$10,474
$873/mo
Toddler Center
$9,500
$792/mo
Infant Family
$7,541
$628/mo
Toddler Family
$6,840
$570/mo
% of Median Income 16.5%
7% "affordable"

How South Carolina Compares

vs. National Average 24% below
vs. College Tuition $1,926 less
Family vs. Center Savings $2,933/yr savings

💰 Tax Credits & Subsidies

All South 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.