Navigating daycare fees in Texas can be a daunting experience. Rising daycare costs are a major source of concern in Texas Households. In 2025, parents can expect to pay, on average, approximately $21,600 per year for daycare for two children. The average annual cost of center-based childcare for a four-year-old is around $9,932 or about $823 per month. Costs vary widely by location and child’s age, with urban areas like Dallas exceeding the state average due to higher demand.
Texas Parents, Get ready! The Daycare Costs Forecast For 2025 Is Here
Texas parents facing daycare challenges are often struggling with high costs, limited availability, and the potential need to leave the workforce to care for children. Daycares in Texas benefit children by promoting social, cognitive, and physical development through structured play and interaction with peers, while also providing access to financial aid programs like the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) for eligible families. Little Companions Daycare provides a safe, nurturing environment, affordable tuition with convenient payment options and multi-child discounts, leading to an exceptional pre-school learning experience.
| Did you know? The average annual cost of infant care in Texas can be around $9,324. The federal government considers childcare affordable if it does not exceed 7% of the family’s income. Many Texas families are spending well above this benchmark. |
Here is your guide to navigating daycare fees in Texas in 2025.
Texas Daycare Costs According to Programs
The cost of daycare in Texas varies based on factors such as location, the age of the child, and the type of care provided.
Infant Care
For infants, parents should expect to pay around $9,324 to $10,000 annually.
Toddler Care
The average cost of toddler daycare in Texas in 2025 ranges between $10,000 and $15,000.
Pre-school Care
Pre-school programs in 2025 cost between $7000 and $12,000 annually in Texas, making it a significant burden on low-income households.
| Important Fact! A survey conducted by the Texas Association for the Education of Young Children (TXAEYC) found that more than 1 in 4 child care programs are considering closing down as federal funding ends. Over 300,000 Texas children are on the brink of losing childcare if adequate funding is not provided. |
Texas Daycare Costs by Location
Houston Childcare Costs in February are priced at the rate of $18.29 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,378. Infant care is charged at $18.99 per hour, a weekly rate of $760, and a monthly rate of $2,469.
Dallas Childcare Costs are around $19.41 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,523. Infant care is charged at $20.02 per hour, a weekly rate of $801, and a monthly rate of $2,603.
San Antonio Childcare Costs are around $16.99 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,204. Infant care is charged at $17.56 per hour, a weekly rate of $702, and a monthly rate of $2,283.
Austin Childcare Costs are around $21.23 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,760. Infant care is charged at $22.43 per hour, a weekly rate of $897, and a monthly rate of $2,916.
Fort Worth Childcare Costs are around $17.52 per hour and a monthly rate of $2278. Infant care is charged at $18.22 per hour, a weekly rate of $729, and a monthly rate of $2,369.
El Paso Childcare Costs are around $14.93 per hour and a monthly rate of $1,941. Infant care is charged at $16.50 per hour, a weekly rate of $660, and a monthly rate of $2,145.
Arlington Childcare Costs are around $17.17 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,228. Infant care is charged at $17.22 per hour, a weekly rate of $689, and a monthly rate of $2,239.
Corpus Christi Childcare Costs are around $51.21 per hour and a monthly rate of $1,977. Infant care is charged at $15.30 per hour, a weekly rate of $612, and a monthly rate of $1,989.
Plano Childcare Costs are around $19.05 per hour and a monthly rate of $2,477. Infant care is charged at $19.71 per hour, a weekly rate of $788, and a monthly rate of $2,562.
Loredo Childcare Costs are around $13.11 per hour and a monthly rate of $1,704.
Conclusion
Understanding the childcare costs in Texas is essential when making this important decision in your life. Average costs in Texas vary by location and program type, with urban areas like Houston, Dallas, and Austin being more expensive than the others. It is important to explore the financial assistance programs when planning for daycare expenses, which can make childcare more affordable.
FAQs
- What is the 9-hour rule for daycare?
This rule is implemented to address situations where parents exceed the contracted hours for daycare services. This policy prevents them from extending the hours beyond what was agreed upon in the contract. - Where can I get financial assistance for daycare in Texas?
The Texas Workforce Commission offers a childcare program that can provide financial aid to low-income families, making childcare more affordable. - Which areas have more expensive daycare facilities in Texas?
Urban areas like Austin and Dallas often exceed the state average due to higher demand and operational costs. This often surpasses the federal affordability benchmark for childcare costs for many households. - How much does full-time daycare cost in Texas in 2025?
Full-time daycare costs vary by city, but parents should budget between $800–$1,200 per month, depending on the location and age of the child. - Are daycare costs tax-deductible in Texas?
Yes, parents may qualify for federal tax credits or dependent care benefits to help offset daycare expenses.
