Selecting the right environment for your child's care is a significant decision that can profoundly influence their upbringing. However, in a vast state like Virginia, identifying the best daycares can be a challenging task and often comes with a considerable cost.

To aid you in this process, we thoroughly examined 350 daycare and childcare facilities in Virginia. 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.

In Virginia, the average cost of daycare is influenced by several key factors. These include the age of the child, with infants incurring the highest expenses, followed by toddlers and preschoolers. As of June 2024, the average annual costs break down as follows: infants at $14,063 ($1,172 per month), toddlers at $11,579 ($965 per month), and preschoolers (4-year-olds) at $10,867 ($906 per month).

Additionally, the type of daycare plays a role in cost differentiation, with center-based care, such as daycare centers, being generally more expensive than home-based care, such as in-home daycare. The average annual costs for June 2024 are reported as $13,109 for center-based care ($1,092 per month) and $8,843 for home-based care ($737 per month).

Furthermore, the location of the daycare facility is a significant factor, with urban areas like Richmond, Northern Virginia, and Hampton Roads experiencing higher costs compared to rural areas. This comprehensive breakdown aims to provide parents with valuable insights to facilitate informed decisions based on their specific needs and circumstances.

What is the average cost near you?

The most affordable Virginia metro area neighborhoods for daycares are

The most affordable neighborhoods in Virginia metro areas are:

Roanoke - Daycares in this area include:

• Watch Me Grow Day Care - 1 star rating on Google Maps
• North Star Childcare - 3 star rating on Google Maps
• Head Start Child Development Center - 5 star rating on Google Maps
• Creative Kids Childcare Center - 4.2 star rating on Google Maps
• Little Champions Learning Academy - 0 star rating on Google Maps

Harrisonburg - Daycares in this area include:

• Good Shepherd School and Day Care - 3.9 star rating on Google Maps
• Harrisonburg Rockingham Child Day Care Center - 5 star rating on Google Maps
• Shiningstar Daycare - 3.2 star rating on Google Maps
• Roberta Webb Child Care Center - 4.3 star rating on Google Maps
• Minnieland Academy at Harrisonburg - 3.1 star rating on Google Maps

Newport News - Daycares in this area include:

• The Garden of Children Ltd - 4.4 star rating on Google Maps
• Arms of the King Child Care Center - 4.8 star rating on Google Maps
• A Heavenly Haven Learning Center - 3.9 star rating on Google Maps
• Beginnings Academy of Learning - 4.4 star rating on Google Maps
• Stepping Stones Child Development Center - 4.1 star rating on Google Maps

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The most expensive Virginia metro area neighborhoods for daycares are

• Arlington: $1,826 per month. Arlington is home to many high-income families and professionals, which drives up the cost of daycare. The neighborhood also boasts some of the top-rated preschools in the state, which can contribute to the higher price tag. 
• McLean: $1,784 per month. Similar to Arlington, McLean is a wealthy community with a high demand for quality daycare. The neighborhood is also home to several Fortune 500 companies, which attracts families with young children. 
• Fairfax: $1,642 per month. Fairfax is a large and diverse county with a mix of affluent and middle-class neighborhoods. However, the cost of daycare in the county tends to be higher than the state average, due to the high concentration of well-paying jobs and the presence of several prestigious private schools. 
• Great Falls: $1,598 per month. Great Falls is a small, upscale community located in Fairfax County. The neighborhood is known for its excellent schools and high quality of life, which contributes to the high cost of daycare. 
• Vienna: $1,574 per month. Vienna is another affluent community in Fairfax County. The neighborhood is home to many young families and professionals, which drives up the demand for daycare services. Vienna also has several highly rated preschools, which can add to the cost. 

How much does infant daycare cost in Virginia?

The cost of infant daycare in Virginia can vary depending on several factors, including:

1. Location: Costs tend to be higher in urban areas like Arlington and Richmond, and lower in rural areas.
2. Type of care: Center-based care is typically more expensive than home-based care.
3. Hours of care: Full-day care is more expensive than half-day care.
4. Special needs: Care for infants with special needs may cost more.

Full-day rates for infant daycare in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $1,000-$2,000 per month
• For 3 days per week: the range is $600-$1,200 per month
• For 2 days per week: the range is $400-$800 per month.

Half-day rates for infant daycare in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $1259.200 per month
• For 3 days per week: $755.52 per month
• For 2 days per week: $503.68 per month.

Drop-in rates for infant daycare in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $5,036.80 per month
• For 3 days per week: $3,147.52 per month
• For 2 days per week: $2,203.52 per month

Source: Cost of childcare in California

How much does toddler daycare cost in Virginia?

Costs are generally higher in urban areas like Arlington or Fairfax County compared to rural areas. Center-based daycare typically costs more than home-based care. In Virginia, the average annual cost for center-based toddler care is around $11,579 ($965 per month), while home-based care averages $8,843 ($737 per month).                   

Full-day rates for toddler daycare in Virginia

• For 5 half-days: per week $1,000 - $1,500 per month
• For 3 half-days: per week $600 - $900 per month
• For 2 half-days: per week $400 - $600 per month

Half-day rates for toddler daycare in Virginia

• For 5 half-days: per week $600-$1,000 per month
• For 3 half-days: per week $360-$600 per month
• For 2 half-days: per week $240-$400 per month

Drop-in rates for toddler daycare in Virginia

• For 5 half-days: per week $2,000-$3,000 per month
• For 3 half-days: per week $1,500-$2,250 per month
• For 2 half-days: per week $1,000-$1,500 per month

How much does preschool cost in Virginia?

The cost of preschool in Virginia can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of program (public, private, for-profit, non-profit), the location, the child's age, the number of days and hours per week, and any additional services offered. However, I can give you a general idea of the range you can expect to pay:

Full-day rates for preschool in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $2,000-$3,000 per month
• For 3 days per week: $1,500-$2,250 per month
• For 2 days per week: $1,000-$1,500 per month

Half-day rates for preschool in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $600 to $900 per month
• For 3 days per week: $360 to $540 per month
• For 2 days per week: $240 to $360 per month

Drop-in rates for preschool in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $480 per month
• For 3 days per week: $320 per month
• For 2 days per week: $200 per month

How much does Pre-K cost in Virginia?

The cost of Pre-K in Virginia can vary widely, depending on several factors, including:

• Location: Costs tend to be higher in urban areas compared to rural areas.
• Type of program: Public school-based Pre-K programs are generally free or have reduced tuition for income-eligible families, while private preschools can be quite expensive.
• Program schedule: Full-day programs are typically more expensive than half-day programs.
• Days per week: Attending fewer days per week will naturally bring the cost down.

Full-day rates for Pre-K in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $400-$1,000 per month
• For 3 days per week: $240-$600 per month
• For 2 days per week: $160-$400 per month

Half-day rates for Pre-K in Virginia

• For 5 days per week: $140-$250 per month
• For 3 days per week: $90-$150 per month
• For 2 days per week: $60-$100 per month

How to get subsidized child care in Virginia

There are several ways to get subsidized child care in Virginia, depending on your family's income and circumstances. Here are the main options:

1. Virginia Child Care Subsidy Program (CCSP):

• This program provides financial assistance to eligible families to help pay for child care in licensed centers, family day homes, and religiously exempt programs.
• Eligibility is based on income, family size, and work or training status. You can find the income guidelines and eligibility requirements on the Child Care VA website: https://www.childcare.virginia.gov/families/paying-for-child-care
• To apply, you can submit a "Child Care Service Application and Predetermination Form" to your local Department of Social Services (DSS) office.
• You can find your local DSS office here: https://www.dss.virginia.gov/
• You can also apply online through the Virginia Benefits Enrollment Portal: https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/

2. Head Start:

• This federal program provides free and comprehensive early childhood education services to low-income children and families.
• To find Head Start programs in Virginia, you can visit the website of the Virginia Head Start Association: https://headstartva.org/event/vahsa-annual-conference/

3. Military Child Care:

• Active duty military families may be eligible for subsidized child care through the Military Child Care Fee Assistance Program (MCCAP).
• You can learn more about MCCAP and find programs near you on the Military & Family Life Readiness website: https://themilitarywallet.com/military-child-care-fee-assistance-programs/

4. Employer-Sponsored Child Care Benefits:

Some employers offer childcare subsidies or discounts to their employees.

Check with your employer's human resources department to see if they offer any childcare benefits.

5. Scholarships and Grants:

There are a few scholarships and grants available to help families with childcare costs.

You can search for scholarships and grants through the Child Care Aware of America website: https://www.childcareaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Paying_for_Child_Care.pdf

Why Does Child Care Cost So Much In Virginia

The issue of high childcare costs in Virginia, and much of the US, is intricate and stems from various contributing factors:

Elevated Operating Costs:

• Low Staff Wages: Early childhood educators, despite their crucial role in children's development, often face undervaluation and low wages. This leads to high turnover rates and challenges in attracting and retaining qualified personnel, consequently increasing operational costs.
• Regulations and Licensing: While regulations and licensing requirements are essential for ensuring child safety and quality, they also contribute to higher operational costs for childcare providers.
• Infrastructure and Supplies: Maintaining safe and engaging learning environments demands ongoing investment in facilities, equipment, and educational materials, further adding to the financial burden.

Market Dynamics:

• Limited Supply: The demand for childcare frequently surpasses the available supply, particularly in high-quality programs. This demand-supply imbalance creates a seller's market, allowing childcare providers to raise prices without fear of losing customers.
• Lack of Government Funding: In comparison to other developed nations, the US invests relatively little public funding in childcare, placing the financial responsibility predominantly on families. This dearth of public support contributes to the overall cost pressure.
• Fragmentation of the Industry: The childcare industry's fragmentation, featuring a diverse array of providers from large centers to small home-based care, makes it challenging to implement consistent policies and regulations. This fragmentation potentially drives up costs.

Societal Factors:

• Gender Pay Gap: The persistent gender pay gap means that working mothers often bear a disproportionate share of childcare costs, impacting household finances.
• Work-Life Balance: Cultural expectations regarding work and family can also contribute to high childcare costs. In a society where long work hours are often normalized, parents may find themselves relying on expensive childcare to manage demanding schedules.

Consequences of High Childcare Costs:

• Financial Strain on Families: High childcare costs force families into challenging decisions, such as delaying childbearing, opting for less flexible jobs, or even exiting the workforce.
• Inequitable Access to Quality Care: Low-income families face limited access to high-quality childcare, potentially placing their children at a disadvantage in the long run.
• Impact on Workforce Participation: High childcare costs can act as a deterrent for parents, particularly mothers, discouraging full participation in the workforce.

Source: Average cost of daycare in Michigan

What Are The Other Issues Parents Face When Trying To Get Child Care?

In addition to the considerable costs, parents in Virginia encounter a range of challenges when seeking childcare:

Limited Availability:

Scarcity Concerns: Securing quality childcare is akin to finding a rare gem, especially in popular areas or for specific age groups. Extended waitlists and minimal openings compel parents to plan well in advance, often months or even years ahead.

This scarcity disproportionately affects low-income families, who may face challenges such as lack of transportation or inflexible schedules when accessing remote childcare options.

Quality Concerns:

Inconsistent Enforcement: Despite Virginia's regulatory mandates, inconsistencies exist in enforcing quality standards. Parents contend with worries about facility cleanliness, staff qualifications, and the consistency of educational curricula.

Locating childcare that aligns with specific needs, such as bilingual education or specialized care for disabilities, introduces an additional layer of complexity.

Scheduling Challenges:

• Limited Operating Hours: Many childcare providers operate within constrained hours or inflexible schedules, often conflicting with parents' work hours and creating logistical challenges.
• The scarcity of options with extended hours, weekend availability, or overnight care further compounds the struggle.
• This inflexibility frequently compels parents to compromise on career progression or reduce working hours, leading to income sacrifices and hindered professional growth.

Lack of Transparency:

• Information Confusion: Navigating the childcare landscape can be perplexing. Finding accurate details about program specifics, costs, and available spots can prove challenging.
• The absence of centralized databases or standardized communication practices exacerbates the frustration, particularly for new parents unfamiliar with local options.

Emotional Strain:

• Stressful Search: The quest for dependable childcare can be a source of stress and anxiety. Dealing with uncertainty, limited choices, and financial pressures takes a toll on parents' mental well-being.
• Feelings of guilt and inadequacy for not securing ideal care contribute to the emotional burden, impacting family dynamics and relationships.

For further reading: how to start a daycare in Michigan

What Qualifications Do Day Care Center Staff Need In Virginia?

Qualifications for daycare center staff in Virginia are contingent upon their roles and the age groups they interact with. Below is a breakdown of the requirements:

General Requirements:

Minimum Age: Staff members must be at least 18 years old.

Educational Background:

• A high school diploma or equivalent is a basic requirement. Some positions may necessitate an associate's degree or higher education.
• Completion of pre-service training, covering topics such as child development, safety, and first aid/CPR.
• Background Check: A comprehensive criminal background check is mandatory for all staff members.
• Health Standards: Good health is imperative, and candidates may be required to undergo a tuberculosis test or health screening.

Additional Qualifications by Role:

Lead Teachers:

• Credentialing: Possession of a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential or an equivalent qualification is preferred, particularly for those working with infants and toddlers.
• For preschool and school-age classrooms, an associate's degree in Early Childhood Education or a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Three years of experience in child care, with at least one year in a supervisory role, is preferred but not always mandatory.

Assistant Teachers:

• Training: Completion of an approved Child Development Assistant (CDA) training program is required, especially for those working with infants and toddlers.
• Education: A high school diploma or equivalent may be necessary for preschool and school-age classrooms, depending on the specific requirements of the center.
• Some prior experience working with children is generally preferred.

Other Staff:

• Substitute Teachers: Similar qualifications as assistant teachers, with added flexibility to fill in for short periods.
• Director: Qualifications for a director vary based on the size and type of the center. It may include a bachelor's degree, certification, and extensive experience.
• Other Support Staff: Specific qualifications for roles like cooks or custodians may vary based on the nature of the position.
• Additional Resources: Further information and guidance on qualifications and regulations can be obtained from relevant resources or authorities in Virginia.

Do Family ChildCare Centers Need To Be Licensed In The State of Virginia?

Certainly! When considering family child care centers in Virginia, it's crucial to be aware that the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) mandates licensure for legal operation. This requirement applies to programs that offer care to five or more children under the age of 13, excluding the provider's children and those residing in the home, for more than 10 hours per week.

There exist two primary categories of family child care centers in Virginia:

• Licensed Family Day Homes: These are residences where the provider cares for a maximum of 12 children under the age of 13, excluding the provider's children and any home-residing children.
• Licensed Family Day Care Systems: These systems endorse family day care homes within their network, referring children to available day care homes in the system.

Key licensure requirements include:

• The provider must be at least 18 years old and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Completion of pre-service training covering child development, safety, and first aid/CPR is mandatory.
• The home must adhere to specified safety and health standards.
• The provider must maintain a specific adult-to-child ratio based on the children's ages.
• A written curriculum must be developed and implemented by the provider.

Opting for a licensed family child care center offers various advantages:

• Regular inspections by the VDSS ensure that licensed centers meet rigorous safety and health standards.
• Providers in licensed centers have received training in child development and early childhood education.
• Licensed centers follow a written curriculum designed to facilitate children's learning and growth.