Childcare

Daycare vs Nanny Cost

Childcare is often the largest parenting cost before kindergarten. The cheapest option on paper is not always the best option for your schedule, commute, sick days, or work flexibility.

How to compare options

  • Monthly tuition or wages
  • Registration fees, deposits, supplies, and meals
  • Backup care when your child or provider is sick
  • Payroll taxes and workers compensation for nannies
  • Commute time and schedule reliability

When a nanny can make sense

A nanny can become competitive when you have multiple young children, irregular work hours, long daycare waitlists, or a nanny share. For one child, daycare is usually cheaper.