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South Dakota Childcare Costs (2026)

Average daycare prices for center-based and family care

Infant Center
$7,862
$655/mo
Toddler Center
$7,200
$600/mo
Infant Family
$5,661
$472/mo
Toddler Family
$5,184
$432/mo
% of Median Income 11.3%
7% "affordable"

How South Dakota Compares

vs. National Average 43% below
vs. College Tuition $1,938 less
Family vs. Center Savings $2,201/yr savings

💰 Tax Credits & Subsidies

All South Dakota 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.

South Dakota has no state income tax, which means more of your paycheck stays in your pocket - partially offsetting childcare costs.