Daycare Cost in Illinois
Compare average child care prices in Illinois for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$19,807
$1,651/mo
National Ranking
11th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
+27%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$10,439
$870/mo (home-based)
Illinois 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) | $19,807 | $1,651 | +27% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $12,283 | $1,024 | +8% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $18,736 | $1,561 | +31% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $12,283 | $1,024 | +13% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $17,238 | $1,437 | +38% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $10,439 | $870 | +1% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in Illinois
Infant
Center
$1,651/mo
Home
$1,024/mo
Save $7,524/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$1,561/mo
Home
$1,024/mo
Save $6,453/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$1,437/mo
Home
$870/mo
Save $6,799/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in Illinois
- Illinois ranks as the 11th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $19,807/year.
- Home-based care costs 38% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in Illinois is +27% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how Illinois's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
Looking for another state? Browse all 50 states + DC:
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