Childcare Cost in Minnesota (2026)
Infant daycare in Minnesota averages $20,840/year ($1,737/month) — 21% above the national average.
Childcare Costs by Minnesota Metro Area
| City | Daycare (Infant) | Nanny (Infant) | Nanny Share | Au Pair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul | $20,840 | $44,450 | $29,630 | $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 $20,840/year — 21% above the national average of $17,260.
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 $20,840 per year ($1,737/month). This is 21% above the national average of $17,260 (Care.com 2026 Cost of Care Report).
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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