Cost of Child Care in South Carolina by Age, City & Type

Finding reliable and affordable childcare in South Carolina can be a challenge for families. Costs vary depending on location, the type of care, and your child’s age. This guide breaks down what parents can expect to pay, explores affordability benchmarks, and highlights ways to save on care through assistance programs and tax credits.

How Much Does Childcare Cost in South Carolina?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) defines affordable childcare as costing no more than 7% of a household’s income. While South Carolina’s rates fall below the national average, many families still spend more than this benchmark.

On average:

• Infant care: about $7,000 per year (~$584 per month)
• Toddler care: ranges from $570–$600 per month
• Preschool: approximately $540 per month

Given a median household income of around $55,000, families spend about 10 –11% of their income on childcare, less than the national average but still a meaningful expense.

Average Childcare Cost in South Carolina by Type and Age

Home-based childcare tends to be slightly more affordable, but prices vary depending on provider experience, program quality, and geographic area.

Average Cost of Childcare in South Carolina by City

Childcare costs in South Carolina differ significantly across regions. Urban areas tend to have higher prices than smaller towns or rural communities.

Charleston, South Carolina

According to provider data, full-time childcare in Charleston costs an average of $700 per month. The city’s higher living costs and strong demand for quality programs contribute to above-average prices statewide.

Columbia, South Carolina

Parents in Columbia pay around $683 per month for full-time childcare. Rates vary by age group, with infant care costing the most. Columbia families often benefit from a wider range of childcare programs, making it easier to find flexible or part-time options.

Greenville, South Carolina

The average monthly childcare cost in Greenville is $675. Prices can fluctuate depending on program type and hours used. Greenville’s growing population and employment opportunities have gradually increased demand for both center-based and family childcare options.

North Charleston, South Carolina

Full-time childcare in North Charleston averages about $667 per month. Families here benefit from more diverse options, including smaller in-home daycares and community programs that help offset costs.

Mount Pleasant, South Carolina

Mount Pleasant families pay roughly $658 per month for childcare. Costs can vary based on whether parents choose Montessori or part-time preschool programs. Despite slightly lower prices, spaces at popular centers fill up quickly due to high demand.

If your city isn’t listed here but you’d like to learn more about childcare costs in your area, you can search by zip code on Winnie. Parents can visit Winnie’s childcare search page and enter their city or zip code to find up-to-date rates, licensed programs, and availability in their neighborhood.

Major Expenses Childcare Programs Factor Into Their Costs

Running a quality childcare program involves more than just daily supervision. Here are some of the biggest expenses providers must cover:

Facilities: Safe, licensed environments require upkeep, maintenance, utilities, and rent.

Staffing: Programs must meet teacher-to-child ratios and pay competitive wages to attract qualified educators.

Materials and Furniture: Safety-certified equipment, developmental toys, and cleaning supplies add to ongoing costs.

Meals and Snacks: Many centers include food service, which contributes to overall tuition.

Hidden Costs Parents Should Keep in Mind

Beyond tuition, parents may encounter additional or occasional fees such as:

Registration and supply fees: Many programs charge a one-time registration fee, usually between $50 and $150, to reserve your child’s spot. In addition, supply fees, ranging from $25 to $100 per semester, cover items such as art materials, classroom supplies, and sanitation needs. Some providers renew these fees annually or per term.

Late pickup or early drop-off charges: Programs often charge $1–$5 per minute after scheduled hours to compensate staff for extended supervision. Early drop-offs may also incur a small daily fee for additional coverage.

Enrichment activities: These may include music, dance, language, or STEM classes offered during or after care. Fees typically range from $10 to $50 per class, depending on program type and instructor qualifications.

Field trips and transportation: Centers sometimes plan educational outings, with costs covering transportation, admission, and supervision. Families can expect to pay $15–$60 per trip, depending on destination.

Special events and classroom celebrations: These may include holiday parties, graduation events, or parent participation days. Programs may request $10–$30 contributions to cover food, decorations, or small gifts.

These extra costs can add up, so it’s important to ask providers for a full fee breakdown before enrolling.

Is Childcare Affordable in South Carolina?

South Carolina’s childcare costs are below the national average, but affordability still varies widely. According to HHS, spending above 7% of income on childcare is considered unaffordable, yet many South Carolina families spend closer to 10–11%.

The national average cost of full-time care is about $13,000 per year, while South Carolina’s average sits around $7,000, highlighting the state’s relative affordability compared to other regions.

Are There Options for Subsidized Childcare in South Carolina?

Yes. South Carolina offers several programs to help qualifying families afford early childhood care:

South Carolina Child Care Assistance Program (SC Voucher)

This state program helps low-income working families pay for childcare. Parents must meet income and employment requirements, and payments go directly to approved providers.

Head Start and Early Head Start

Federally funded programs offering free early education, meals, and health screenings to eligible families with children from birth to age five.

Military Child Care Fee Assistance

Military families stationed in South Carolina may qualify for reduced childcare costs through national Department of Defense programs.

Learn more about how to apply for these and other assistance options in our guide to childcare assistance in South Carolina.

Other Ways to Make Childcare More Affordable

In addition to state and federal programs, families can reduce expenses through:

1. Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs): Use pre-tax dollars to pay for childcare.
2. Tax Credits: The federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit can offset annual costs.
3. Part-Time or Shared Care: Consider nanny shares or part-week preschool programs.
4. Employer-Sponsored Benefits: Some workplaces contribute to dependent care expenses.

South Carolina Childcare Costs FAQ

How much of your budget should go to daycare in South Carolina?

Financial experts suggest limiting childcare spending to about 7–10% of household income, but most families in South Carolina spend closer to 10–11%.

Is childcare tax deductible in South Carolina?

Yes. Families may qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, and employers often offer Dependent Care FSAs to help offset costs.

Are there free preschool options in South Carolina?

Yes. State-funded Head Start and Early Head Start programs, as well as free pre-K options in certain school districts, serve eligible families.

Why does childcare cost vary by city?

Costs differ due to rent prices, staffing wages, and local demand. Urban areas like Charleston tend to be higher than smaller towns.

What’s the best way to compare providers?

Visit centers, ask about all fees upfront, and read reviews on trusted platforms like Winnie.