For working parents, students, and entrepreneurs across Texas, daycare isn’t optional; it’s essential. Whether you need full-time infant care or part-time after-school supervision, understanding weekly daycare costs in Texas helps you plan your budget more confidently.
Texas generally offers lower daycare costs compared to many U.S. states, but prices vary significantly by location, child age, and type of care. Below, Little Companions Daycare breaks down average daycare costs per week in Texas, explains what affects pricing, and compares costs by major cities.
Average Daycare Cost Per Week in Texas (By City)
All figures below represent estimated average weekly daycare costs for full-time center-based care. Prices may vary by provider.
| Texas City | Avg. Estimated Weekly Daycare Cost |
|---|---|
| Austin, TX | $320 – $350 |
| Dallas, TX | $300 – $330 |
| Houston, TX | $280 – $310 |
| San Antonio, TX | $260 – $290 |
| Fort Worth, TX | $270 – $300 |
| Plano, TX | $290 – $320 |
| El Paso, TX | $200 – $230 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | $210 – $240 |
Note: These weekly daycare costs are averages based on 2026 market trends in Texas and may vary by provider, child’s age, and type of care. For exact pricing, please contact your local daycare center.
What Factors Affect Daycare Costs in Texas?
1. Child’s Age
Daycare pricing depends heavily on age due to state-mandated child-to-teacher ratios:
- Infants (0–12 months): Highest cost due to one-on-one care needs
- Toddlers (1–3 years): Slightly lower as ratios increase
- Preschool & after-school care: Most affordable option
2. Type of Daycare Service
Different care models come with different weekly price ranges:
- Part-time daycare: $50–$150 per week
- Full-time daycare: $250–$350 per week
- After-school programs: $100–$180 per week
- Nanny care: $700–$1,000+ per week
3. Daycare Center Type
- Licensed daycare centers: Higher cost, structured curriculum
- Home-based family daycare: More affordable, smaller group sizes
- Private nannies: Most expensive, personalized care
4. Child-to-Teacher Ratio
Lower ratios = higher quality care = higher cost. Texas licensing laws strictly regulate these ratios to ensure child safety and developmental support.
5. Additional Fees
Many Texas daycare providers charge extra for:
- Registration & enrollment fees
- Security deposits
- Late pickup fees
- Activity or field-trip costs
6. Supplies & Meals
Some centers require parents to provide:
- Diapers and wipes
- Formula or special foods
- Blankets or extra clothing
Others include meals and learning materials, which may increase weekly costs but reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
Is Daycare in Texas Affordable Compared to Other States?
Yes. According to childcare cost studies and Texas Workforce Commission data, Texas daycare costs are below the national average, especially outside major metro areas. However, childcare can still consume 10–25% of household income, making cost comparison essential.
Conclusion
On average, Texas parents can expect to pay $250–$320 per week for daycare, with prices varying by city, child age, and care type. Metro areas like Austin, Dallas, and Houston cost more, while cities such as El Paso and Corpus Christi offer more affordable options.
Understanding these factors helps families choose the right daycare provider without financial stress. If you’re looking for trusted, licensed daycare services in Texas, Little Companions Daycare is happy to help.
FAQs
What do you need to open a daycare in Texas?
To operate a daycare in Texas, providers must obtain Texas Workforce Commission licensing, pass background checks, meet staff education requirements, and carry liability insurance.
How many hours can a child stay in daycare in Texas?
Texas regulations allow a child to stay in daycare for up to 16 hours per day, depending on the program and licensing type.
How many children can a daycare have in Texas?
Licensed home daycares may care for up to 12 children, including the provider’s own children, while commercial daycare centers follow room-based capacity limits.
Is daycare cheaper in home-based centers in Texas?
Yes. Home-based family daycare centers are usually 10–30% cheaper than commercial daycare facilities, though amenities and hours may differ.
Does Texas offer daycare financial assistance?
Yes. Eligible families may qualify for Texas Workforce Solutions Child Care Services, which help offset daycare costs for working parents and students.
