#46 most affordable (out of 50 states)

Illinois Daycare Affordability Score: D (22% of Income)

Illinois is above the national average for infant daycare relative to income. Families here pay a larger share of their earnings than most.

11% less affordable than the national average.

State Daycare

$17,280/yr

Median Income

$78,433/yr

% of Income

22.0%

nat. avg 19.8%

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Illinois gets a D for infant daycare affordability — 22.0% of median income. See your area: daycarecalc.com

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How the grade is calculated

We divide annual infant daycare by median household income to get the cost burden ratio. Then we compare Illinois'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

10–25% cheaper

0–10% cheaper

0–10% pricier

10–25% pricier

25%+ pricier

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

Illinois vs. national average

Illinois 22.0% of income

National average 19.8% of income

Illinois families spend $2,520/year more on infant daycare than the national average ($14,760/yr nationally vs. $17,280/yr here).

Illinois infant daycare affordability: common questions

How affordable is daycare in Illinois?

Illinois earns a D for daycare affordability. Annual infant center care averages $17,280, which is 22.0% of the state's median household income of $78,433. That's 11% above the national average burden of 19.8%.

What is the average cost of daycare in Illinois?

Full-time infant center-based daycare in Illinois averages $1,440/month in 2026. Annual cost: $17,280. That's 22.0% of the state median household income.

Does Illinois have childcare subsidy programs?

Illinois 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 Illinois get a D for daycare affordability?

The grade reflects how much of the median household income goes toward full-time infant center care. Illinois's ratio of 22.0% is 11% above the national average of 19.8%. The federal government defines affordable childcare as 7% of income or less — Illinois, like most states, exceeds that benchmark.

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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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