Childcare costs in New Jersey vary based on the child’s age, program type, and where you live. While New Jersey’s prices are generally higher than the national average, families across the state still face significant monthly childcare expenses. This guide breaks down what you can expect to pay and highlights resources that can help make childcare more affordable.
Below is a breakdown of the average monthly childcare cost in New Jersey by type of care and age group. These figures are based on statewide averages.
| Age Group | Center-Based Care | Home-Based Care |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–12 months) | $1596 | $1596 |
| Toddler (1–2 years) | $1387 | $1025 |
| Preschool (3–5 years) | $1254 | $933 |
| School Age (6–12 years, after-school programs) | ~$850 | Varies |
Data sourced from Winnie provider data and New Jersey statewide averages
Based on Winnie’s provider data, here are the average costs families can expect across major New Jersey cities:
Families in Newark pay around $775 per month for childcare depending on age.
Jersey City is one of the most expensive cities in the state, averaging $1,770 per month for daycare.
Princeton families can expect to pay around $1,225 per month on average.
Daycare in Atlantic City costs an average of $800 per month.
Hoboken has some of the highest childcare prices in the state, averaging $2,160 per month
Several factors influence New Jersey’s childcare pricing:
Staffing and training: Qualified caregivers and teachers represent the largest portion of costs.
Licensing and compliance: Programs must follow strict state health and safety guidelines.
Facility and utilities: Centers maintain safe, age-appropriate environments.
Educational materials and meals: Many programs include supplies, meals, and enrichment activities.
These elements ensure high-quality care but also increase overall program expenses.
Beyond tuition, families may encounter additional expenses such as:
Registration fees or deposits
Late pick-up fees
Field trip or enrichment charges
Supplies or seasonal activity costs
Childcare affordability remains a challenge for many families. Infant care alone can account for 18% of the median household income, far above the federal benchmark of 7% for affordable childcare.
Families in high-cost cities like Jersey City or Hoboken often face even higher financial pressure.
Yes. New Jersey offers several childcare assistance programs for eligible families:
New Jersey Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP): Helps income-eligible parents pay for care.
Head Start and Early Head Start: Free high-quality early learning for qualifying families. Explore Head Start.
Military Child Care Fee Assistance: Helps active-duty families access affordable childcare. Military Fee Assistance.
New Jersey is also expanding access to free preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds across many districts.
Families can explore additional strategies to reduce costs:
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Use pre-tax dollars.
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit for eligible expenses.
Shared care arrangements (e.g., nanny share).
Employer childcare benefits, if available.
Most families pay between $950–$1,770 per month, depending on age, program type, and city.
Home-based programs are often budget-friendly and may cost less than center-based care.
Yes, families may qualify for CCAP, Head Start, or other assistance programs.
Many districts offer free preschool for 3- and 4-year-olds, with expansion continuing statewide.
Yes—eligible families can claim the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit.