Childcare Cost in Washington (2026)
Infant daycare in Washington averages $21,500/year ($1,792/month) — 48% above the national average.
Childcare Costs by Washington Metro Area
| City | Daycare (Infant) | Nanny (Infant) | Nanny Share | Au Pair |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle | $21,500 | $39,000 | $22,500 | $22,000 |
Washington Childcare Assistance & Subsidies
Working Connections Child Care (WCCC)
Washington's WCCC provides childcare subsidies to families earning up to 60% of the State Median Income.
State Tax Benefits
Washington has no state income tax, so there are no state-level childcare tax credits.
Learn more in our Childcare Tax Benefits Guide or the full Washington Childcare Subsidies Guide.
Washington Childcare Costs in Context
In Washington, the Seattle metro is the market we track, where infant daycare averages about $21,500/year — 48% above the national average of $14,500.
That ranks Washington #4 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 Washington.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does daycare cost in Washington?
Infant daycare in Washington averages $21,500 per year ($1,792/month). This is 48% above the national average of $14,500.
What childcare subsidies are available in Washington?
Washington offers the Working Connections Child Care (WCCC). Washington's WCCC provides childcare subsidies to families earning up to 60% of the State Median Income. Washington has no state income tax, so there are no state-level childcare tax credits.
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