Moving from California to Texas: Daycare Cost Change
Infant center care in Texas runs $900/month — $900/month less than California's $1800/month. That's $10,800/year saved per child.
Moving from
California
$1800
infant/month
+$570 vs national avg
Moving to
Texas
$900
infant/month
-$330 vs national avg
$10,800/year saved per child
$900/month × 12 months. 50.0% less than what you're paying now. Over 2 infant years: $21,600 total.
Full Cost Comparison by Care Type
| Care Type | California | Texas | Monthly Change | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Infant — Center | $1800 | $900 | -$900 | -$10,800 |
| Toddler — Center | $1600 | $800 | -$800 | -$9,600 |
| Preschool — Center | $1300 | $680 | -$620 | -$7,440 |
| School Age | $1100 | $560 | -$540 | -$6,480 |
| Infant — Home | $1400 | $700 | -$700 | -$8,400 |
| Nanny (Full-Time) | $3500 | $2200 | -$1300 | -$15,600 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How much will I pay for daycare after moving from California to Texas?
Infant center-based daycare in Texas averages $900/month in 2026. Toddler care runs $800/month; preschool $680/month; school-age $560/month. That's $900/month less than you're paying now in California.
How much can I save on childcare by moving from California to Texas?
Infant center care in Texas runs $900/month less than California. Per year, that's $10,800 per child. Over a typical 2-year infant care period: $21,600 total. For two children that gap doubles — $43,200 over two infant years.
How does Texas compare to the national daycare average?
The national average for infant center-based daycare is $1230/month. Texas averages $900/month — $330 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.