DaycareCalc
C

#40 most affordable (out of 50 states)

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

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

5% less affordable than the national average.

State Daycare

$18,720/yr

Median Income

$90,325/yr

% of Income

20.7%

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 Washington'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).

Washington vs. national average

Washington 20.7% of income
National average 19.8% of income

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

Washington infant daycare affordability: common questions

How affordable is daycare in Washington?
Washington earns a C for daycare affordability. Annual infant center care averages $18,720, which is 20.7% of the state's median household income of $90,325. That's 5% above the national average burden of 19.8%.
What is the average cost of daycare in Washington?
Full-time infant center-based daycare in Washington averages $1,560/month in 2026. Annual cost: $18,720. That's 20.7% of the state median household income.
Does Washington have childcare subsidy programs?
Washington 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 Washington get a C for daycare affordability?
The grade reflects how much of the median household income goes toward full-time infant center care. Washington's ratio of 20.7% is 5% above the national average of 19.8%. The federal government defines affordable childcare as 7% of income or less — Washington, 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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