California Childcare Cost Calculator
Calculate childcare costs in California. Infant daycare ~$20,989/yr. Compare options, tax credits, and DCFSA savings.
How This Calculator Works
Calculation methodology and assumptions
Childcare cost calculator for California. Weekly rate pre-filled based on national averages adjusted by California's cost of living index (142.2). National avg: infant daycare ~$14,760/yr, preschool ~$10,600/yr. DCFSA provides pre-tax savings up to $5,000/yr. Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: 20-35% of up to $3,000 (1 child) or $6,000 (2+ children).
Key State Information
California childcare facts: Estimated infant daycare ~$20,989/yr (~$1,749/mo) | Preschool ~$15,073/yr | Median household income $91,905 | Childcare as % of income: ~23%.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in California?
In California, infant daycare averages approximately $20,989/year ($1,749/month). Preschool averages ~$15,073/year. This represents about 23% of the state's median household income of $91,905.
How can I reduce childcare costs in California?
Key strategies: (1) Use a Dependent Care FSA (save up to $5,000 pre-tax), (2) Claim the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (20-35% of costs), (3) Look into California state child care subsidy programs, (4) Consider family-based daycare vs centers, (5) Explore employer childcare benefits. DCFSA also saves on California's state income tax.
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