Childcare costs in Virginia can vary widely depending on where you live, your child’s age, and the type of program you choose. While every family’s needs are different, the estimates below offer a helpful starting point for understanding what care may cost across the state.
On average, families in Virginia pay between $1,200 and $1,800 per month for full-time childcare, though prices can be higher in larger metro areas and lower in rural parts of the state. Infant care is typically the most expensive due to enhanced staffing needs, while school-age programs are often more affordable.
Below are the statewide annual and monthly averages.
| Care type | Infant | 4-year-old | School-age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Center-based | $20,628 | $14,040 | $12,840 |
| Family-based | $14,208 | $9,852 | $8,940 |
| Care type | Infant | 4-year-old | School-age |
|---|---|---|---|
| Center-based | $1719 | $1170 | $1070 |
| Family-based | $1184 | $821 | $745 |
Below are estimated monthly averages for several major cities in Virginia. These figures help families understand how location can influence childcare costs.
Families in Virginia Beach pay an estimated $1,300–$1,700 per month for full-time childcare. for full-time childcare. Prices vary based on program type and age group.
Full-time childcare in Richmond averages around $1,200–$1,600 per month, with variation between neighborhoods and care types., with variation between neighborhoods and care types.
Families in Norfolk typically spend around $1,150–$1,550 per month, depending on whether care is center-based or home-based., depending on whether care is center-based or home-based.
Chesapeake providers offer childcare at an estimated $1,200–$1,600 per month, shaped by program features and staffing., shaped by program features and staffing.
As one of the most expensive areas in the state, Arlington sees average childcare costs around $1,700–$2,100 per month..
Alexandria families usually pay about $1,650–$2,050 per month for full-time childcare. for full-time childcare.
The average monthly cost for care in Newport News is approximately $1,050–$1,450, depending on program type., depending on program type.
Hampton families see monthly childcare prices near $1,000–$1,400, influenced by program size and curriculum., influenced by program size and curriculum.
Childcare providers base their tuition on a variety of operating expenses designed to keep kids safe, engaged, and supported. These may include:
Staff salaries and benefits
Classroom materials and age-appropriate supplies
Licensing, insurance, and safety requirements
Rent, utilities, and facility maintenance
Curriculum and enrichment programming
Higher-quality programs often include trained staff, smaller ratios, and specialized learning environments, all of which can impact tuition.
Beyond standard tuition, families may encounter additional expenses such as:
Registration or annual enrollment fees
Supplies, diapers, or meal fees (varies by provider)
Late pickup charges
Field trip or extracurricular fees
These costs differ across Virginia, so it’s helpful to clarify all fees during enrollment.
Affordability depends on factors like family income, location, and program type. In some parts of Virginia, childcare can take up a significant portion of a household’s budget, especially for infant care or full-time center-based programs. Many families compare multiple care types to find a balance of cost, convenience, and quality.
Yes. Virginia offers a Child Care Subsidy Program, which helps eligible families lower the cost of care while parents work or attend school. Details can be found through the Virginia Department of Education or local social services offices.
Eligibility and availability vary, so families should review the most current requirements on the state’s official website.
Families in Virginia may also consider:
Employer childcare assistance
Sliding-scale tuition programs
Part-time or hybrid care schedules
Shared care arrangements, such as nanny shares
Exploring multiple options can help families manage expenses more effectively.
If you’re searching for programs near home or work, you can browse licensed providers, compare offerings, and explore reviews to find the right fit for your family. Visit Winnie to find childcare in Virginia.
Most families pay between $1,200 and $1,800 per month, depending on age, location, and program type.
Infant rooms require lower child-to-teacher ratios, specialized equipment, and additional staffing—all of which increase costs.
Families may qualify for federal tax credits, such as the Child and Dependent Care Credit. Some may also qualify for state-level support.
It’s best to begin the search early, many programs, especially infant rooms, fill up months in advance.
Infant care is typically the costliest, with tuition decreasing as children reach preschool and school-age programs.