Moving from California to Arizona: Daycare Cost Change
Infant center care in Arizona runs $1000/month — $800/month less than California's $1800/month. That's $9,600/year saved per child.
Moving from
California
$1800
infant/month
+$570 vs national avg
Moving to
Arizona
$1000
infant/month
-$230 vs national avg
$9,600/year saved per child
$800/month × 12 months. 44.4% less than what you're paying now. Over 2 infant years: $19,200 total.
Full Cost Comparison by Care Type
| Care Type | California | Arizona | Monthly Change | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant — Center | $1800 | $1000 | -$800 | -$9,600 |
| Toddler — Center | $1600 | $880 | -$720 | -$8,640 |
| Preschool — Center | $1300 | $750 | -$550 | -$6,600 |
| School Age | $1100 | $620 | -$480 | -$5,760 |
| Infant — Home | $1400 | $750 | -$650 | -$7,800 |
| Nanny (Full-Time) | $3500 | $2400 | -$1100 | -$13,200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will I pay for daycare after moving from California to Arizona?
Infant center-based daycare in Arizona averages $1000/month in 2026. Toddler care runs $880/month; preschool $750/month; school-age $620/month. That's $800/month less than you're paying now in California.
How much can I save on childcare by moving from California to Arizona?
Infant center care in Arizona runs $800/month less than California. Per year, that's $9,600 per child. Over a typical 2-year infant care period: $19,200 total. For two children that gap doubles — $38,400 over two infant years.
How does Arizona compare to the national daycare average?
The national average for infant center-based daycare is $1230/month. Arizona averages $1000/month — $230 below the national average. California is $1800/month — $570 above the national average.
Other Popular Relocation Routes
State cost details
Source: HHS Administration for Children and Families National Database of Childcare Prices (NDCP), 2026 estimates. Monthly figures reflect full-time center-based care.