Daycare Cost in North Carolina
Compare average child care prices in North Carolina for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across center-based and home-based settings.
Infant Center (Annual)
$12,370
$1,031/mo
National Ranking
38th Most Expensive
Out of 51 (50 states + DC)
vs. National Average
-21%
Nat'l avg: $15,585
Most Affordable Option
$9,047
$754/mo (home-based)
North Carolina 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) | $12,370 | $1,031 | -21% |
| Infant (Home-Based) | $9,961 | $830 | -12% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $11,694 | $975 | -18% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $9,591 | $799 | -12% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $10,381 | $865 | -17% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $9,047 | $754 | -12% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in North Carolina
Infant
Center
$1,031/mo
Home
$830/mo
Save $2,409/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$975/mo
Home
$799/mo
Save $2,103/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$865/mo
Home
$754/mo
Save $1,334/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in North Carolina
- North Carolina ranks as the 38th most expensive state for child care in the U.S.
- The most expensive care type is Infant Center at $12,370/year.
- Home-based care costs 19% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in North Carolina is -21% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how North Carolina's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
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