Cost of Child Care in Oklahoma by Age, City & Type

Child care costs across Oklahoma vary widely depending on your child’s age, the type of program you choose, and where you live in the state. Whether you're budgeting for infant care or comparing preschool programs in major cities, having accurate cost information can help you plan confidently.

Below, we break down Oklahoma’s child care costs using the latest state-level and provider data.

How Much Does Child Care Cost in Oklahoma?

Child care costs in Oklahoma tend to be lower than the national average, but they can still be a significant monthly expense for families. Infant care is typically the most costly age group, while preschool and school-age care are more affordable. Costs also fluctuate between center-based programs and licensed home daycares.

Below is a full breakdown of Oklahoma’s annual and monthly child care costs by age and care type.

Average Child Care Cost in Oklahoma by Care Type & Age

Here’s a closer look at how annual and monthly costs compare between center-based and family child care programs statewide.

Annual Prices Table

 Monthly Prices Table

Child Care Costs in Major Oklahoma Cities

Child care prices vary significantly across Oklahoma’s largest cities. Infant care tends to be most expensive in Oklahoma City and Tulsa, while mid-sized cities like Lawton and Broken Arrow offer more affordable options.

Below are estimated full-time monthly averages based on statewide data, local provider listings, and Winnie search insights.

Oklahoma City, OK

Full-time infant care in Oklahoma City averages $1,050 per month, while preschool programs average around $760 per month. Costs vary based on neighborhood, program type, and availability, with center-based programs typically charging more than licensed home daycares.

Tulsa, OK

Tulsa families pay an average of $960 per month for infant care and around $720 per month for preschool. Prices are highest in central neighborhoods and lowest in suburban areas.

Norman, OK

In Norman, infant care averages $900 per month, and preschool programs average $700 per month. Because Norman is a large university town, waitlists can fluctuate seasonally.

Broken Arrow, OK

Broken Arrow offers slightly lower rates than nearby Tulsa, with infant care costing around $880 per month and preschool averaging $690 per month.

Lawton, OK

Lawton is one of the more affordable major cities, with infant care averaging $780 per month and preschool around $650 per month.

Major Expenses That Child Care Programs Factor Into Their Costs

Child care providers must cover many operating expenses to maintain safe and high-quality environments. These core costs directly influence tuition prices:

• Staff salaries and benefits

• Licensing, inspections, and insurance

• Curriculum materials and supplies

• Meals and snacks

• Classroom equipment and maintenance

• Administrative and operational expenses

• Facility rent or mortgage

• Professional development and training

These expenses are similar statewide, but variations in local wages and rent can cause city-to-city price differences.

Hidden Costs Parents Should Keep in Mind

Beyond base tuition, families may encounter additional child care costs, such as:

• Registration or enrollment fees

• Supply or activity fees

• Late pickup fees

• Summer care or school-break coverage

• Diaper or formula requirements for infants

• Occasional field trip costs

• Part-time rate premiums

Understanding these ahead of time can help families budget more accurately.

Is Child Care Affordable in Oklahoma?

Compared to national averages, Oklahoma is one of the more affordable states for child care. However, infant care can still consume a significant portion of a family’s income, especially for single parents or families with multiple children under age five.

An infant’s center-based cost of $839 per month accounts for a sizable percentage of many households’ budgets, making subsidies and financial assistance essential for thousands of families across the state.

Are There Options for Subsidized Child Care in Oklahoma?

Yes. Oklahoma offers several statewide programs to help families reduce child care costs:

Oklahoma Child Care Subsidy Program

Administered by Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS), this program helps income-eligible families pay for care at licensed centers and home daycares.

Head Start & Early Head Start

Provides free early learning programs for eligible families with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.

Military Fee Assistance

Military families stationed in Oklahoma may qualify for assistance through MCCYN and related programs.

Families should verify eligibility directly with OKDHS, as requirements vary depending on household size and income.

Other Ways to Make Child Care More Affordable

Families can explore several strategies to reduce overall child care costs:

• Choose licensed home daycares, which are typically 15–20% lower in price

• Apply for part-time preschool

• Use employer-sponsored dependent care benefits

• Compare programs across nearby neighborhoods or cities

• Look for programs that include meals, diapers, or supplies in tuition

• Explore co-op or church-based programs

Find Child Care in Oklahoma

Looking for licensed daycare, preschool, or school-age programs near you? Winnie can help you find providers that match your family’s needs, budget, and schedule.

Search for child care in Oklahoma

Oklahoma Child Care Costs FAQ

1. How much of my budget should go to child care in Oklahoma?

Many financial planners suggest limiting child care costs to 7–10% of your income. However, for infant care, many Oklahoma families exceed this percentage due to higher tuition rates.

2. Is child care tax-deductible in Oklahoma?

Yes. Families may qualify for the federal Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit, which provides partial reimbursement for child care costs.

3. Does Oklahoma offer free preschool?

Yes. Oklahoma is known for having one of the strongest universal pre-K programs in the country, offering free preschool for most 4-year-olds.

4. How early should I apply for child care in Oklahoma?

Infant care waitlists can fill quickly, especially in major cities. Many families apply 3–6 months before delivery or as early as they know care will be needed.

5. Are licensed home daycares cheaper?

Yes. Home-based programs often cost 15–20% less than center-based care while still offering licensed, regulated environments.

Explore More States

Looking for childcare cost information in nearby regions?

• Texas

• Kansas

• Missouri