Childcare costs in Mississippi vary widely depending on your child’s age, the type of program you choose, and where you live. While Mississippi prices are generally lower than the national average, they still represent a significant expense for many families.
This guide breaks down average childcare costs across the state and highlights affordable options and assistance programs to help families plan.
Below is a general overview of what families typically pay in Mississippi based on statewide trends. While exact prices vary by provider, these averages reflect common ranges across licensed centers and home-based programs.
| Age Group | Center-Based Care | Home-Based Care |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–12 months) | $1202 | $911 |
| Toddler (1–2 years) | $1012 | $755 |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | $850 | $653 |
| School Age (6–12 years, after-school programs) | $300–$450 | $250–$400 |
These price ranges reflect Mississippi’s lower-than-average cost of living, though families with infants typically experience the highest monthly tuition.
Below is a breakdown of estimated childcare costs in key Mississippi cities based on statewide trends. These figures represent typical averages but may vary by provider.
Families in Jackson usually see infant care averaging $800 per month in center-based programs, with preschool rates closer to $650 per month. Home-based options may offer lower rates.
Infant care in Gulfport typically averages around $750 per month, while preschool programs often fall around $600 per month.
Hattiesburg is slightly more affordable, with infant care averaging $700 per month and preschool programs averaging $550–$600 per month.
Center-based infant care in Biloxi usually averages $750–$800 per month, while home-based providers may charge closer to $600 per month.
Families in Southaven often see infant care around $800 per month and preschool tuition around $650 per month.
These estimates help families compare costs by city and evaluate which childcare options fit their budget.
Providers structure their tuition around several necessary expenses, including:
Staffing and training: Qualified caregivers represent the largest operational cost.
Licensing and compliance: Programs must meet state standards for safety and education.
Facilities and utilities: Maintaining safe, clean learning environments impacts monthly rates.
Educational materials and meals: Many programs include meals, snacks, and curriculum materials.
These components help ensure kids receive high-quality early education but contribute to overall pricing.
Beyond base tuition, families may encounter additional fees such as:
Factoring these into your annual budget can help prevent surprises.
Mississippi’s childcare costs are lower than the national average, making the state more affordable relative to others. However, infant care can still represent 10–15% of a typical household income, placing pressure on many families.
While prices vary by city and program type, Mississippi families still spend thousands per year on childcare, especially when multiple children are enrolled.
Yes, Mississippi offers several programs to help reduce childcare costs for eligible families.
This program, operated by the Mississippi Department of Human Services, helps income-eligible families afford licensed childcare.
These federally funded programs offer free early education for qualifying families.
Access programs statewide here: Head Start
Active-duty military families may qualify for childcare tuition support through this program:
Military Fee Assistance
These programs reduce or fully cover the cost of childcare depending on family qualifications.
Families can also explore:
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Use pre-tax dollars for childcare costs.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: Claim eligible childcare expenses on your federal tax return.
In-home or shared care: Nanny shares or home-based daycares can be more affordable.
Employer benefits: Some employers offer childcare assistance or reimbursement.
Most families pay between $500–$850 per month, depending on age, location, and program type.
Home-based providers are often the most budget-friendly, especially for preschool-aged children.
Yes. Eligible families can receive support through the state’s Child Care Payment Program (CCPP), Head Start, and other programs.
Preschool is not universally free, but Head Start and some state-supported early learning initiatives may offer free or reduced-cost programs.
Yes. Many families qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit when filing federal taxes.