Childcare Cost in Minnesota (2026)
Infant daycare in Minnesota averages $17,500/year ($1,458/month) — 21% above the national average.
Childcare Costs by Minnesota Metro Area
| City | Daycare (Infant) | Nanny (Infant) | Nanny Share | Au Pair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul | $17,500 | $33,000 | $19,000 | $22,000 |
Minnesota Childcare Assistance & Subsidies
Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Minnesota CCAP provides subsidies to families earning below 67% of the State Median Income.
State Tax Benefits
Minnesota offers a refundable Child and Dependent Care Credit for families earning under $52,710.
Learn more in our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide or the full Minnesota Childcare Subsidies Guide.
Minnesota Childcare Costs in Context
In Minnesota, the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro is the market we track, where infant daycare averages about $17,500/year — 21% above the national average of $14,500.
That ranks Minnesota #9 of the 28 states in our dataset for infant daycare cost. With daycare below $22,000/year statewide, a flat-rate au pair (~$22,000/year) is rarely the cheapest option in Minnesota.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in Minnesota?
Infant daycare in Minnesota averages $17,500 per year ($1,458/month). This is 21% above the national average of $14,500.
What childcare subsidies are available in Minnesota?
Minnesota offers the Minnesota Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). Minnesota CCAP provides subsidies to families earning below 67% of the State Median Income. Minnesota offers a refundable Child and Dependent Care Credit for families earning under $52,710.
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