Daycare Cost in Alabama
Compare average child care prices in Alabama for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$8,632
$719/mo
National Ranking
49th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
-45%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$7,332
$611/mo (home-based)
Alabama Child Care Cost Breakdown
Annual and monthly costs by care type and setting (2025 data)
| Care Type | Annual Cost | Monthly Cost | vs. National Avg |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (Center-Based) | $8,632 | $719 | -45% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $7,670 | $639 | -33% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $8,424 | $702 | -41% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $7,527 | $627 | -31% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $8,008 | $667 | -36% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $7,332 | $611 | -29% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Alabama
Infant
Center
$719/mo
Home
$639/mo
Save $962/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$702/mo
Home
$627/mo
Save $897/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$667/mo
Home
$611/mo
Save $676/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Alabama
- Alabama ranks as the 49th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $8,632/year.
- Home-based care costs 11% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Alabama is -45% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Alabama's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
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