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Tennessee Childcare Costs (2026)

Average daycare prices for center-based and family care

Infant Center
$11,985
$999/mo
Toddler Center
$10,500
$875/mo
Infant Family
$8,629
$719/mo
Toddler Family
$7,560
$630/mo
% of Median Income 19%
7% "affordable"

How Tennessee Compares

vs. National Average 13% below
vs. College Tuition $1,885 more
Family vs. Center Savings $3,356/yr savings

💰 Tax Credits & Subsidies

All Tennessee 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.

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