Daycare Cost in South Dakota
Compare average child care prices in South Dakota 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
$6,635
$553/mo (home-based)
South Dakota 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) | $6,822 | $569 | -40% |
| Toddler (Center-Based) | $8,632 | $719 | -40% |
| Toddler (Home-Based) | $6,822 | $569 | -37% |
| Preschool (Center-Based) | $8,070 | $673 | -36% |
| Preschool (Home-Based) | $6,635 | $553 | -36% |
Center-Based vs. Home-Based Care
How much you can save by choosing home-based care in South Dakota
Infant
Center
$719/mo
Home
$569/mo
Save $1,810/yr with home-based care
Toddler
Center
$719/mo
Home
$569/mo
Save $1,810/yr with home-based care
Preschool
Center
$673/mo
Home
$553/mo
Save $1,435/yr with home-based care
Quick Facts About Daycare in South Dakota
- South Dakota 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 21% less than center-based care for infants.
- Infant care in South Dakota is -45% compared to the national average of $15,585.
Compare with Nearby States
See how South Dakota's daycare costs stack up against neighboring states
North Dakota
Infant center: $12,299/yr
39th most expensive
Minnesota
Infant center: $20,421/yr
9th most expensive
Iowa
Infant center: $12,694/yr
36th most expensive
Nebraska
Infant center: $18,147/yr
16th most expensive
Wyoming
Infant center: $12,784/yr
34th most expensive
Montana
Infant center: $15,080/yr
25th most expensive
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