Daycare Cost in Delaware
Compare average child care prices in Delaware for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$16,617
$1,385/mo
National Ranking
19th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+7%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$9,968
$831/mo (home-based)
Delaware 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) | $16,617 | $1,385 | +7% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $10,997 | $916 | -3% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $14,668 | $1,222 | +3% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $10,358 | $863 | -5% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $13,218 | $1,102 | +6% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $9,968 | $831 | -3% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Delaware
Infant
Center
$1,385/mo
Home
$916/mo
Save $5,620/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,222/mo
Home
$863/mo
Save $4,310/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,102/mo
Home
$831/mo
Save $3,250/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Delaware
- Delaware ranks as the 19th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $16,617/year.
- Home-based care costs 34% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Delaware is +7% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Delaware's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
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