Childcare Cost in Missouri (2026)
Infant daycare in Missouri averages $15,180/year ($1,265/month) — 12% below the national average.
Childcare Costs by Missouri Metro Area
| City | Daycare (Infant) | Nanny (Infant) | Nanny Share | Au Pair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas City | $15,480 | $41,660 | $27,770 | $22,000 |
| St. Louis | $14,880 | $42,660 | $28,440 | $22,000 |
Missouri Childcare Assistance & Subsidies
Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program
Missouri provides childcare subsidies through the Family Support Division for families earning below 138% of the federal poverty level while working or in approved training. The state also funds the Missouri Preschool Program for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds.
State Tax Benefits
Missouri offers a Child Care Resource and Referral State Tax Credit worth up to 30% of childcare expenses paid.
Learn more in our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide or the full Missouri Childcare Subsidies Guide.
Missouri Childcare Costs in Context
Across the 2 Missouri metros we track, infant daycare averages about $15,180/year — 12% below the national average of $17,260. Costs span from $14,880/year in St. Louis to $15,480/year in Kansas City.
That ranks Missouri #23 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 Missouri.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in Missouri?
Infant daycare in Missouri averages $15,180 per year ($1,265/month), ranging from $14,880 to $15,480 across major metros. This is 12% below the national average of $17,260 (Care.com 2026 Cost of Care Report).
What childcare subsidies are available in Missouri?
Missouri offers the Missouri Child Care Subsidy Program. Missouri provides childcare subsidies through the Family Support Division for families earning below 138% of the federal poverty level while working or in approved training. The state also funds the Missouri Preschool Program for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds. Missouri offers a Child Care Resource and Referral State Tax Credit worth up to 30% of childcare expenses paid.
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