All States
Washington Childcare Costs (2026)
Average daycare prices for center-based and family care
Infant Center
$21,348
$1,779/mo
Toddler Center
$19,236
$1,603/mo
Infant Family
$15,371
$1,281/mo
Toddler Family
$13,850
$1,154/mo
% of Median Income
23.6%
How Washington Compares
vs. National Average
54% above
vs. College Tuition
$10,148 more
Family vs. Center Savings
$5,977/yr savings
Tax Credits & Subsidies
All Washington 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.
Washington has no state income tax, which means more of your paycheck stays in your pocket - partially offsetting childcare costs.