Choosing the right place to care for your child is a significant decision that can greatly impact their upbringing. However, in a vast state like Florida, finding the best daycares can be challenging and often comes with a substantial cost.
To assist you in this process, we thoroughly examined 350 daycare and childcare in Florida. We've compiled a comprehensive guide to help you understand the various price points you may encounter and provide insight into the average costs you can anticipate based on your specific needs.
This guide aims to simplify the decision-making process and assist you in determining the most suitable place for your child's care and education.
The typical monthly expense for infant daycare in Florida is approximately $1,000. Nevertheless, this cost can fluctuate significantly based on factors such as the city, the type of care provided, and the number of hours attended.
Jacksonville boasts the lowest average monthly cost for infant daycare in Florida, coming in at $400. Conversely, Sarasota has the highest average monthly cost for infant daycare in the state, reaching $1,036.
In 2024, the average cost of infant daycare in Florida witnessed an 11.11% increase. Comparatively, in 2022, the average monthly cost stood at $900, whereas in 2023, it has risen to $1,000.
This escalation can be attributed to several factors, including the growing cost of living, heightened demand for daycare services, and a shortage of qualified childcare workers.
What is the average cost near you?
The most affordable Florida metro area neighborhoods for daycares are
Jacksonville Metro Area:
- 32223: Average $498 per month
- 32210: Average $516 per month
- 32246: Average $545 per month
- 32217: $554 per month
- 32206: $573 per month
Tampa Metro Area:
- 33614: Average $642 per month
- 33619: Average $660 per month
- 33621: Average $678 per month
- 33610: Average $696 per month
- 33607: Average $714 per month
Orlando Metro Area:
- 32828: Average $744 per month
- 32807: Average $762 per month
- 32825: Average $780 per month
- 32814: Average $798 per month
- 32819: Average $816 per month
Miami Metro Area:
- 33167: Average $936 per month
- 33126: Average $954 per month
- 33143: Average $972 per month
- 33180: Average $990 per month
- 33178: Average $1008 per month
The most expensive Florida metro area neighborhoods for daycares are
Jacksonville: 32207 Average, $1089
Tampa: 33606 Average, $924
Orlando: 32801 Average, $1206
Miami: 33131 Average, $1440
How much does infant daycare cost in Florida?
The Economic Policy Institute's 2024 Family Budget Calculator reports that the average annual cost of infant daycare in Florida is $9,238. This figure encompasses expenses for both center-based and in-home care options.
Full-day rates for infant daycare in Florida
- For 5 days: per week $900 - $1,000 per month
- For 3 days: per week $600 - $750 per month
- For 2 days: per week $450 - $600 per month
Half-day rates for infant daycare in Florida
- For 5 half-days: per week $250 to $2,000 per month
- For 3 half-days: per week $150 to $1,440 per month
- For 2 half-days: per week $100 to $960 per month
Drop-in rates for infant daycare in Florida
- For 5 half-days: per week $480 to $$600 per month
- For 3 half-days: per week $240 to $360 per month
- For 2 half-days: per week $160 to $240 per month
Sources: Average cost of daycare in Ohio
How much does toddler daycare cost in Florida?
As indicated by the Economic Policy Institute, the yearly average cost for full-time toddler care in Florida stands at $7,287. This translates to an approximate monthly expenditure of $607 for parents seeking full-time toddler care services.
Full-day rates for toddler daycare in Florida
- For 5 half-days: per week $740 to $2400 per month
- For 3 half-days: per week $240 to $1080 per month
- For 2 half-days: per week $160 to $480 per month
Half-day rates for toddler daycare in Florida
- For 5 half-days: per week $150 to $300 per month
- For 3 half-days: per week $90 to $180 per month
- For 2 half-days: per week $60 to $120 per month
Drop-in rates for toddler daycare in Florida
- For 5 half-days: per week $120-$150 per month
- For 3 half-days: per week $80-$110 per month
- For 2 half-days: per week $60-$80 per month
How much does preschool cost in Florida?
The average cost of preschool in Florida is $740 per month for full-time care. However, the actual cost can vary depending on several factors, including the location, type of preschool, and child's age.
Full-day rates for preschool daycare in Florida
- For 5 days per week: $750 to \$950 per month
- For 3 days per week: $450 to \$570 per month
- For 2 days per week: $300 to \$380 per month
Half-day rates for preschool daycare in Florida
- For 5 days per week: $540 to $900 per month
- For 3 days per week: $270 to $450 per month
- For 2 days per week: $180 to $300 per month
Drop-in rates for Preschool Daycare in Florida
- For 5 days per week: $250 to $1,000 per month
- For 3 days per week: $150 to $600 per month
- For 2 days per week: $100 to $400 per month
Resource: cost of childcare in Charlotte NC
How much does Pre-K cost in Florida?
The cost of Pre-K in Florida varies depending on the type of program and the location. However, here are some general estimates:
Private Preschool
- Cost: $650-$1,000 per month
- Eligibility: Children must typically be 3 or 4 years old.
Full-day rates for Pre-K in Florida
- For 5 days per week: $1,000 to $1,500 per month
- For 3 days per week: $450 to $675 per month
- For 2 days per week: $200 to $300 per month
Half-day rates for Pre-K in Florida
- For 5 days per week: $100 to $150 per month
- For 3 days per week: $60 to $90 per month
- For 2 days per week: $40 to $60 per month
How to get subsidized child care in
- The School Readiness Program (SRP) offers financial assistance to low-income families for early education and care, catering to children aged 0 to 5. Eligibility is contingent upon meeting specific income requirements.
- Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK) is a complimentary educational initiative designed to prepare 4-year-old children for success in kindergarten and beyond. This program is accessible to all 4-year-olds in Florida, irrespective of income.
- Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R) serves as a network aiding families in identifying and selecting quality childcare options that align with their needs. Financial assistance is available for qualifying families.
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) is a temporary cash assistance program supporting low-income families with children, potentially assisting in covering childcare expenses.
- The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) provides health insurance for low-income children and families, offering potential assistance for childcare expenses.
To apply for subsidized daycare in Florida, individuals can reach out to their local Early Learning Coalition. Additionally, more information about subsidized daycare programs is available on the Florida Department of Education website.
Here are the eligibility requirements for the School Readiness Program (SRP):
- Age: Child must be between the ages of 0 and 5.
- Income: Family must meet income eligibility guidelines.
- Residency: Family must reside in Florida.
- Legal Status: Child must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.
Here are the eligibility requirements for Voluntary PreKindergarten (VPK):
- Age: Child must be 4 years old on or before September 1 of the school year.
- Residency: Child must reside in Florida.
- Immunizations: Child must be up-to-date on immunizations.
Here are the eligibility requirements for Child Care Resource and Referral (CCR&R):
- Age: Child must be between the ages of 0 and 5.
- Residence: Family must reside in Florida.
- Need: Family must require childcare assistance.
Here are the eligibility requirements for Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF):
- Age: Child must be under the age of 19.
- Income: Family must meet income eligibility guidelines.
- Employment: Family must be working or participating in an employment and training program.
- Citizenship: Family head must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.
Here are the eligibility requirements for the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP):
- Age: Child must be under the age of 19.
- Citizenship: Child must be a U.S. citizen or eligible immigrant.
- Income: Family must meet income eligibility guidelines.
Why Does Child Care Cost So Much In Florida
Childcare costs in Florida rank among the highest in the nation, as outlined in a 2022 report by the Florida Policy Institute. The average annual expense for full-time childcare in the state is $11,589 for an infant and $8,901 for a four-year-old. These figures significantly surpass the national averages of $10,620 and $8,415, respectively.
Several factors contribute to the elevated cost of childcare in Florida:
- High Demand: Florida's appeal as a place to live and work has led to a growing population and increased demand for childcare services, resulting in elevated prices.
- Low Supply: Inadequate childcare facilities in Florida stem from factors such as the high costs associated with establishing and running a childcare business, coupled with the typically low wages earned by childcare workers.
- Stringent Regulatory Requirements: The state imposes numerous regulations on childcare providers, which can be expensive to implement and may limit the number of available childcare options.
- Low Wages for Childcare Workers: Childcare workers in Florida receive comparatively low wages, with an average annual salary of $22,160, considerably below the state's overall average salary.
- High Turnover Rates: The demanding nature of childcare work, coupled with low wages, contributes to a high turnover rate in the field, making it challenging for providers to retain qualified staff.
The repercussions of exorbitant childcare costs in Florida extend to families, businesses, and the economy:
- Financial Strain on Families: High childcare expenses place a burden on families, forcing parents to make challenging decisions about their employment.
- Workforce Challenges for Businesses: Businesses struggle to find and retain qualified childcare workers, impacting employee retention and overall workforce stability.
- Economic Impact: The economy suffers as the soaring cost of childcare constrains consumer spending and hampers overall economic growth.
Addressing these challenges may require a comprehensive approach that considers factors such as wages, regulatory policies, and support for both families and childcare providers.
More Resources: How to start a daycare in Florida
What Are The Other Issues Parents Face When Trying To Get Child Care?
1. Staffing: Daycare centers are often understaffed, which can lead to burnout among staff members and a decrease in the quality of care. Parents should ask about the staff-to-child ratio at the daycare they are considering.
2. Communication: Parents need to have open and honest communication with the daycare staff. This will help to ensure that the child's needs are being met and that any concerns are addressed promptly.
3. Pick-up and drop-off: Pick-up and drop-off can be a stressful time for both parents and children. It is important to find a daycare that has flexible pick-up and drop-off times that meet your needs.
4. Allergens and health concerns: Parents need to make sure that the daycare is aware of their child's allergies and health concerns. This will help to ensure that the child is safe and comfortable at daycare.
5. Discipline: Parents need to ask about the daycare's discipline policy. This will help to ensure that the discipline methods used are consistent with their parenting style.
6. Technology use: Parents need to ask about the daycare's policy on technology use. This will help to ensure that their child is not spending too much time in front of screens.
7. Food: Parents need to ask about the daycare's food policy. This will help to ensure that their child is eating healthy and nutritious meals.
What Qualifications Do Day Care Center Staff Need In Florida?
The qualifications for daycare center staff in Florida vary depending on the specific position. Here are the general requirements for different roles:
Director:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of three years of experience in a childcare setting.
- Possession of a Director Credential certificate from the Florida Department of Education.
Child Care Staff:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least six months of experience in a childcare setting.
- Must hold a Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) from the Florida Department of Education.
Infant and Toddler Staff:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- A minimum of six months of experience working in a childcare setting with infants and toddlers.
- Possession of an Infant and Toddler Appropriate Practices certificate from the Florida Department of Education.
Preschool Staff:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- At least six months of experience in a childcare setting with preschoolers.
- Must have a Preschool Appropriate Practices certificate from the Florida Department of Education.
School-Age Staff:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum of six months of experience working in a childcare setting with school-age children.
- Possession of a School-Age Professional Certificate (SAPC) from the Florida Department of Education.
General Requirements for All Staff:
- Minimum age of 18.
- Successful completion of a background check.
- Up-to-date on all required immunizations.
- Completion of mandatory training, including 40 hours of initial training and 10 hours of annual in-service training.
Additionally, daycare center staff should exhibit qualities such as competence, care, and patience. They must create a safe and nurturing environment for children, catering to the individual needs of each child in their care.
sources: Best daycare in Chicago
Do Family Child Care Centers Need To Be Licensed In The State of Florida?
Certainly, here is an overview of the licensing requirements for family childcare homes in Florida:
Type I License:
- Provide care for up to six children.
- Have a minimum of 2,000 square feet of indoor living space.
- Maintain a separate play area for children.
- Have a safe and secure outdoor play area.
- Employ at least one full-time staff member who is at least 18 years old and holds a Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) from the Florida Department of Education.
Type II License:
- Provide care for seven to twelve children.
- Have a minimum of 2,500 square feet of indoor living space.
- Maintain separate play areas for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
- Have a safe and secure outdoor play area.
- Employ at least two full-time staff members who are at least 18 years old and hold a Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC) from the Florida Department of Education.
General Requirements for Licensed Family Child Care Homes:
- Must be licensed or registered with the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF).
- Apply to family child care homes that provide care for more than one unrelated family.
- Comply with health and safety requirements to ensure a safe and healthy environment for children.
- Adhere to staffing requirements to ensure an adequate number of staff members for child care.
- Follow curriculum requirements to provide age-appropriate educational opportunities.
Benefits of Licensing a Family Child Care Home:
- Access to funding from various sources, including state and federal government.
- Access to training and support services provided by the DCF.
- Increased credibility compared to unlicensed homes.
- Regular inspections conducted by the DCF ensure compliance with regulations. Non-compliance may result in fines or closure.
If considering opening a family child care home in Florida, it's crucial to contact the DCF for detailed information on the licensing process and regulations.
In conclusion, choosing the right daycare for your child in Florida involves careful consideration of various factors, including location, cost, and program offerings. Our comprehensive guide has provided insights into the average costs of infant daycare across different metro areas and neighborhoods, as well as costs for toddler care, preschool, and pre-K. The increasing expenses in 2024 can be attributed to factors such as the rising cost of living, increased demand for services, and a shortage of qualified childcare workers.
We've also highlighted the financial assistance programs available to help alleviate the burden of childcare costs for eligible families, such as the School Readiness Program, Voluntary PreKindergarten, and Child Care Resource and Referral. Additionally, we outlined the eligibility requirements for these programs, emphasizing the importance of meeting income, age, and residency criteria.
