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

Finding reliable and affordable child care is one of the biggest challenges for Illinois families. The cost of child care in Illinois varies widely depending on a child’s age, location, and the type of program chosen. This guide breaks down average costs across cities, explains what drives prices, and shares financial aid options to make care more accessible.

Families can use Winnie to compare tuition rates, explore nearby programs, and find licensed providers that fit their needs and budget.

Average Childcare Cost in Illinois by Childcare Type and Age

Below is an overview of the average monthly cost of home-based versus center-based child care in Illinois, based on statewide provider data.

Infant care is the most expensive, with monthly tuition that can surpass rent or mortgage payments in some areas. Preschool and after-school programs tend to be more affordable, but they still represent a significant portion of family budgets.

Average Cost of Child Care in Illinois by City

Child care costs differ greatly across Illinois. Factors like population density, local wages, and cost of living all influence tuition rates. Below is a closer look at the average full-time monthly cost of care by city:

Chicago, Illinois

As the state’s largest metro, Chicago has the highest average child care costs, around $1,560 per month. Infant and toddler care are in especially high demand, and many families seek out nearby suburbs for slightly lower rates.

Naperville, Illinois

Naperville families can expect to pay about $1,320 per month for full-time center-based care. The city’s strong emphasis on education and safety makes it a popular choice for parents, though tuition is still above the state average.

Springfield, Illinois

The state capital offers more affordable care, averaging $980 per month. Springfield’s smaller population and lower living costs make it one of the most budget-friendly cities for families.

Peoria, Illinois

Families in Peoria spend roughly $950 per month for full-time child care. Many in-home daycares and family care programs help keep costs lower compared to larger urban areas.

Rockford, Illinois

Child care in Rockford averages $1,000 per month. While not the cheapest in the state, Rockford offers a variety of licensed options, including bilingual preschools and home-based programs.

Champaign, Illinois

In Champaign, families typically pay around $1,150 per month. With a strong university presence, many providers cater to student parents and offer flexible scheduling options.

Aurora, Illinois

Aurora’s child care costs average $1,280 per month. Families benefit from numerous quality-rated centers and after-school programs throughout the city.

If your city isn’t listed, you can search by zip code on Winnie to find programs in your area.

Major Expenses That Childcare Programs Factor Into Their Costs

Operating a licensed daycare or preschool in Illinois involves several recurring costs:

• Facilities: Rent, utilities, and maintenance for safe, regulated environments.
• Staffing: Salaries, benefits, and ongoing training for certified teachers and caregivers.
• Licensing and Compliance: Meeting Illinois DCFS regulations and maintaining insurance coverage.
• Learning Materials: Age-appropriate toys, educational tools, and cleaning supplies.

These combined expenses contribute to the overall cost of child care in Illinois, ensuring programs maintain high-quality standards and safe environments.

Hidden Costs Associated with Childcare

In addition to tuition, parents often face extra fees that can catch them off guard:

• Enrollment or Registration Fees: One-time or annual payments to secure your child’s spot.
• Food and Meal Plans: Not all programs include snacks or lunches in tuition.
• Supplies and Diapers: Especially for infants and toddlers.
• Late Pick-Up Fees: Additional charges for pickups after closing hours.
• Activity Fees: For special events, field trips, or extracurricular programs.

Families should also consider transportation and seasonal breaks, when alternate care may be required. These additional costs can raise total annual expenses by several hundred dollars.

Is Childcare Affordable in Illinois?

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), child care is affordable if it accounts for no more than 7% of household income. Illinois families typically spend 12–20%, well above this benchmark.

The national average annual cost for full-time care is $13,128, while Illinois averages around $15,800 per year, nearly 20% higher. This affordability gap makes child care one of the largest recurring expenses for working families statewide.

Are There Options for Subsidized Childcare in Illinois?

Yes. The Illinois Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) helps eligible families pay for part of their child care costs while parents work, attend school, or participate in approved job training. Eligibility depends on household income and family size, and payments go directly to approved providers.

To apply or learn more, visit How to Find and Apply for Childcare Assistance in Illinois.

Families may also qualify for federal and statewide programs that lower child care expenses:

• Head Start and Early Head Start: Free programs offering early learning, health, and nutrition services for children from birth to age five.
• Illinois Preschool for All: Provides free preschool to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds in participating districts.
• Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit: Allows families to claim a portion of child care expenses on their federal taxes.
• Military Child Care Fee Assistance: Supports active-duty and certain reserve families with child care costs.

For more information, families can explore Child Care Aware of America, which provides national resources and state-by-state guidance.

Other Ways to Make Childcare More Affordable

For families who don’t qualify for subsidies, there are still ways to save:

1. Opt for part-time care if your schedule allows.
2. Use Dependent Care FSAs or tax credits through your employer.
3. Share care with another family in a nanny-share arrangement.
4. Ask about scholarships or sliding-scale tuition at local centers.
5. Consider in-home providers, which tend to be more affordable than center-based programs.

Illinois Childcare Costs FAQ

How much of your budget should go to daycare in Illinois?

Experts recommend spending up to 10% of income on child care, but most Illinois families exceed that, spending between 15–20%.

Is childcare tax deductible in Illinois?

Yes, families may qualify for the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit or a Dependent Care FSA through their employer.

Does Illinois offer free preschool?

Yes. The Preschool for All program provides free early education for eligible 3- and 4-year-olds based on district availability.

How does Illinois compare to national averages?

Child care in Illinois costs about 20% more than the national average, with the highest rates in Chicago and Naperville.

Where can I find childcare near me?

Search by city or zip code on Winnie to explore licensed programs near you.