Daycare Cost in District of Columbia
Compare average child care prices in District of Columbia for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$26,193
$2,183/mo
National Ranking
2nd Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+68%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$19,685
$1,640/mo (home-based)
District of Columbia 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) | $26,193 | $2,183 | +68% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $21,382 | $1,782 | +88% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $24,087 | $2,007 | +68% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $21,022 | $1,752 | +93% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $20,981 | $1,748 | +67% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $19,685 | $1,640 | +91% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in District of Columbia
Infant
Center
$2,183/mo
Home
$1,782/mo
Save $4,811/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$2,007/mo
Home
$1,752/mo
Save $3,065/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,748/mo
Home
$1,640/mo
Save $1,296/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in District of Columbia
- District of Columbia ranks as the 2nd most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $26,193/year.
- Home-based care costs 18% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in District of Columbia is +68% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how District of Columbia's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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