DaycareCalc
C

#43 most affordable (out of 50 states)

Colorado Daycare Affordability Score: C (21% of Income)

Colorado sits near the national average. Families here face cost burdens typical of most of the country.

8% less affordable than the national average.

State Daycare

$18,720/yr

Median Income

$87,598/yr

% of Income

21.4%

nat. avg 19.8%

How the grade is calculated

We divide annual infant daycare by median household income to get the cost burden ratio. Then we compare Colorado's ratio against the national average. Grades reflect how much more or less families pay here relative to what families pay nationally.

A+
25%+ cheaper
A
10–25% cheaper
B
0–10% cheaper
C
0–10% pricier
D
10–25% pricier
F
25%+ pricier

Sources: ACF Child Care Aware of America 2025; U.S. Census Bureau ACS 2023 (median household income).

Colorado vs. national average

Colorado 21.4% of income
National average 19.8% of income

Colorado families spend $3,960/year more on infant daycare than the national average ($14,760/yr nationally vs. $18,720/yr here).

Colorado infant daycare affordability: common questions

How affordable is daycare in Colorado?
Colorado earns a C for daycare affordability. Annual infant center care averages $18,720, which is 21.4% of the state's median household income of $87,598. That's 8% above the national average burden of 19.8%.
What is the average cost of daycare in Colorado?
Full-time infant center-based daycare in Colorado averages $1,560/month in 2026. Annual cost: $18,720. That's 21.4% of the state median household income.
Does Colorado have childcare subsidy programs?
Colorado participates in the federal CCDF program, which provides childcare subsidies for working families below the income threshold. Eligibility typically covers families earning up to 85% of the state median income. Apply through your county's social services office. The Dependent Care FSA (up to $5,000 pre-tax) and Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit ($600–$1,050/child) are available to all families regardless of state.
Why does Colorado get a C for daycare affordability?
The grade reflects how much of the median household income goes toward full-time infant center care. Colorado's ratio of 21.4% is 8% above the national average of 19.8%. The federal government defines affordable childcare as 7% of income or less — Colorado, like most states, exceeds that benchmark.

What does this mean for your family?

The grade is based on median income. Your actual cost burden depends on your specific income and situation. Use the calculator to see your numbers.

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