If you're searching for daycare in Illinois, you've probably already noticed that childcare is one of the biggest expenses your family will face. Between rent or mortgage payments and daycare tuition, it can feel like there's nothing left over. You're not imagining it: Illinois childcare costs run about 20% higher than the national average, and in some parts of the state, infant care alone can consume 15% or more of a family's annual income.
The good news? Once you understand what drives these costs and where to find help, you can make a plan that works for your budget. Whether you're in Chicago's high-cost neighborhoods, the more affordable suburbs, or a downstate city like Springfield or Peoria, this guide will give you the real numbers you need, along with concrete ways to reduce what you pay.
We'll break down the average cost of daycare in Illinois by city, by your child's age, and by the type of care you're considering. We'll also walk you through every major financial assistance program available to Illinois families, from CCAP subsidies to tax credits you might be overlooking.
The average cost of daycare in Illinois ranges from $600 to $2,400 per month ($7,200 to $28,800 per year), depending on your location, child's age, and care type. Infant care averages $1,150 to $1,560 per month statewide, while preschool-age care (3+) averages $864 to $1,100 per month. Chicago and its suburbs have the highest rates, while downstate cities like Springfield and Peoria offer more affordable options.
Where you live in Illinois has a dramatic impact on what you'll pay for childcare. The state is divided into rate groups by the Department of Human Services, with Cook County and the collar counties (DuPage, Lake, Kane, Will, McHenry, Kendall, and DeKalb) in the highest-cost Group 1A. Cities in Group 1B, including Champaign, Peoria, Rockford, and Springfield, have somewhat lower rates. Rural areas generally offer the most affordable care.
Here's what families are actually paying across Illinois's major cities:
| City | Average Monthly Cost | Rate Group | vs. State Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago | $1,400 - $1,560 | Group 1A | +25% to +35% |
| Naperville | $1,154 - $1,320 | Group 1A | +15% to +20% |
| Aurora | $1,200 - $1,280 | Group 1A | +10% to +15% |
| Rockford | $950 - $1,000 | Group 1B | -5% to -10% |
| Peoria | $900 - $950 | Group 1B | -10% to -15% |
| Springfield | $780 - $980 | Group 1B | -15% to -25% |
What this means for your budget: A Chicago family with one infant in full-time center-based care might pay $18,720 annually, while the same care in Springfield could cost $11,760, a savings of nearly $7,000 per year. If you have any flexibility in where you live or work, these regional differences are worth factoring into your decision.
As the state's largest metro area, Chicago consistently has the highest daycare costs in Illinois. The average runs around $1,560 per month for center-based care, but costs vary significantly by neighborhood. Families in the Loop, Lincoln Park, and the North Shore suburbs often pay $2,000 or more monthly, while South Side and some West Side neighborhoods may offer rates closer to $1,200.
For infant care specifically, Chicago families should budget for $1,800 to $2,900 per month at quality centers. That works out to roughly $21,600 to $34,800 annually, an amount that rivals or exceeds in-state college tuition at many Illinois universities.
The collar counties surrounding Chicago (DuPage, Will, Kane, Lake, McHenry) fall into the same high-cost rate group as Cook County, but actual prices tend to run 10-20% lower than Chicago proper. Naperville families report paying around $1,154 to $1,320 monthly for full-time care, while Aurora averages $1,200 to $1,280.
These suburbs often offer a compelling middle ground: lower costs than Chicago, but with the quality programs and convenience that families in Group 1A counties expect. Many suburban centers participate in Illinois's quality rating system (ExceleRate Illinois), making it easier to compare programs on factors beyond just price.
If you live or work outside the Chicago metro area, you'll generally find more affordable childcare options. Springfield, the state capital, offers some of Illinois's most budget-friendly daycare rates, averaging $780 to $980 per month. Peoria families typically pay around $900 to $950 monthly, while Rockford runs slightly higher at $950 to $1,000.
These lower costs don't necessarily mean lower quality. Many downstate programs participate in the same state quality initiatives and must meet the same licensing standards as their Chicago-area counterparts. The difference largely reflects lower operating costs (rent, wages, utilities) rather than differences in care quality.
Your child's age is the single biggest factor affecting what you'll pay for daycare, regardless of where you live in Illinois. This is because state licensing requirements mandate different caregiver-to-child ratios by age, and caring for younger children simply requires more staff per child.
| Age Group | Illinois Monthly Average | Annual Cost | Required Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0-15 months) | $1,150 - $1,560 | $13,800 - $18,720 | 1:4 |
| Toddler (15-36 months) | $1,000 - $1,300 | $12,000 - $15,600 | 1:5 |
| Preschool (3-5 years) | $864 - $1,100 | $10,368 - $13,200 | 1:10 |
| School-age (before/after) | $150 - $500 | $1,800 - $6,000 | 1:20 |
Infant care is the most expensive type of childcare you'll encounter, and for understandable reasons. Illinois requires one caregiver for every four infants (a 1:4 ratio), meaning providers need significantly more staff to care for babies. Infants also require more individual attention, specialized equipment, and careful feeding and sleeping schedules.
Across Illinois, infant care averages $1,150 to $1,560 per month, though Chicago families often pay $1,800 or more. At the high end, some premium Chicago infant programs charge $2,500 to $3,000 monthly. The statewide average works out to about $16,373 annually, which the Economic Policy Institute notes is nearly equivalent to a year's in-state tuition at the University of Illinois.
Planning ahead: If you're expecting a baby, start researching infant care options early, ideally during your second trimester. Quality infant programs often have waitlists of 6-12 months, and some popular Chicago-area centers fill up even earlier. Getting on waitlists before your baby arrives gives you more options.
Once your child reaches the toddler stage, you'll see some relief in monthly costs. The required ratio drops to 1:5, allowing providers to spread staffing costs across more children. Toddler care in Illinois typically runs $1,000 to $1,300 monthly, depending on location.
The transition from infant to toddler rates doesn't always happen automatically on your child's birthday. Most centers have specific "move-up" dates when children transition between classrooms, and the timing depends on factors like developmental readiness, room availability, and program policies. Ask prospective providers when you can expect to see the rate change.
Preschool-age care offers the most affordable rates for families needing full-time care. With ratios of 1:10 allowed for children ages 3 and up, providers can operate more efficiently. Illinois families pay an average of $864 to $1,100 monthly for preschool care, or about $10,368 to $13,200 annually.
This is also the age when free and subsidized options become more widely available. Illinois's Preschool for All program provides free preschool to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds, and many families qualify for Head Start or state-funded Pre-K programs. We'll cover these options in detail in the financial assistance section below.
Understanding where costs are headed can help you plan your family budget. Unfortunately, the trend isn't encouraging: childcare costs in Illinois have risen significantly over the past several years and show no signs of slowing down.
According to recent data, childcare costs in the Chicago area have surged approximately 30% since 2020. This increase outpaces general inflation and reflects a combination of factors: higher wages for childcare workers (who were historically underpaid), increased operating costs, staffing shortages that have reduced capacity, and stronger demand as parents returned to offices after the pandemic.
Budget for annual increases: Most daycare programs raise rates annually, typically by 3-7%. When you're calculating whether a program fits your budget, factor in these increases. A program that feels affordable today at $1,200/month could cost $1,350/month in just three years.
The silver lining: Illinois has increased funding for childcare assistance programs, and federal pandemic-era childcare investments helped many providers stay open and even expand. The state has also raised CCAP reimbursement rates, making it easier for subsidized families to access quality care.
Beyond location and age, the type of childcare you choose significantly affects cost. Illinois families can choose from daycare centers, in-home (family) daycare, and nanny or au pair arrangements, each with different price points and trade-offs.
| Care Type | Monthly Cost Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Daycare Center | $1,000 - $2,400 | Structured environment, socialization, consistent hours |
| In-Home/Family Daycare | $600 - $1,400 | Smaller groups, home-like setting, flexibility |
| Nanny (Full-time) | $2,500 - $4,500 | One-on-one care, maximum flexibility, in your home |
| Nanny Share | $1,500 - $2,500 | Personalized care at lower cost, built-in playmate |
Center-based care is the most common choice for Illinois families, offering structured environments, trained staff, and predictable hours. Centers must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and follow specific regulations for ratios, safety, and staff qualifications.
Center-based care typically costs 15-30% more than in-home options, but many parents value the accountability, backup staffing (centers don't close when one teacher is sick), and educational programming that centers provide. Many centers also participate in Illinois's ExceleRate quality rating system, making it easier to evaluate programs.
Family daycare providers care for small groups of children in their own homes. Illinois licenses two types of home-based care: Family Child Care Homes (up to 8 children) and Group Child Care Homes (9-16 children with additional staff).
In-home daycare typically costs $600 to $1,400 monthly in Illinois, offering savings of 20-40% compared to centers. Beyond the price advantage, many families appreciate the smaller group sizes, mixed-age environments, and more flexible scheduling that home-based providers often offer.
What to look for in home-based care: A valid Illinois license (check the DCFS Provider Lookup tool), current CPR/first aid certification, a clean and child-proofed environment, clear policies on illness and emergencies, and a caregiver who warmly engages with the children during your visit.
For families who need maximum flexibility or have multiple children, hiring a nanny may actually be cost-competitive with other options. A full-time nanny in Illinois typically costs $17 to $25 per hour, or roughly $2,500 to $4,500 monthly for 40+ hours per week.
While the sticker price is higher, nanny care for two or more children often costs less per child than paying two center tuitions. Nannies also offer benefits like sick-child care, schedule flexibility, and personalized attention that group settings can't match.
A nanny share, where two families share one nanny and split the cost, offers a middle-ground option at approximately $1,500 to $2,500 per family monthly.
Illinois offers several programs to help families afford childcare. Depending on your income, employment status, and your child's age, you may qualify for subsidies that significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs, sometimes to as little as $1 per month.
CCAP is Illinois's primary childcare subsidy program, helping eligible families pay for care while parents work, attend school, or participate in job training. The program pays a portion of childcare costs directly to your provider, with families contributing a co-payment based on income.
Eligibility requirements:
What CCAP covers:
Co-payment caps: CCAP co-payments are capped at 7% of family income. For families at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level, co-payments are reduced to just $1 per month. Once approved, families can continue receiving benefits with income up to 275% FPL, providing stability as your earnings grow.
How to apply: Apply online at getchildcareil.org or contact your local Child Care Resource and Referral agency at 1-877-202-4453. You can also use the online eligibility calculator to estimate whether you qualify before applying.
Illinois's Preschool for All program provides free preschool to eligible 3- and 4-year-olds (and 5-year-olds not yet eligible for kindergarten). The program prioritizes children considered at risk of academic challenges, but also serves families of low to moderate income.
What PFA provides:
PFA programs operate through school districts and community organizations across Illinois. Availability varies by area, so contact your local school district or call 1-877-20-CHILD to find programs near you. For Chicago residents, visit Chicago Early Learning or call 312-229-1690.
Head Start is a federally-funded program serving children ages 3-5 from low-income families, while Early Head Start extends services to infants, toddlers, and pregnant women. Both programs are completely free and provide comprehensive services beyond just childcare.
Head Start services include:
Eligibility: Families must meet federal poverty guidelines or receive public assistance (TANF, SSI). Children in foster care and homeless children are automatically eligible. Find Head Start programs in Illinois through the Head Start Locator or your local CCR&R.
Even if you don't qualify for subsidies, federal and state tax benefits can reduce your childcare costs significantly.
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA):
Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit:
FSA vs. Tax Credit: For most families, the Dependent Care FSA provides greater tax savings than the tax credit, especially if you're in a higher tax bracket. However, you can't use both for the same expenses. If you contribute $5,000 to an FSA and spend $6,000 on childcare, you can only claim the tax credit on the remaining $1,000. A tax professional can help you determine the optimal strategy for your situation.
The monthly tuition rate is rarely the complete picture of what you'll pay. When comparing daycare options, ask specifically about these common additional costs:
Red flag on pricing: Be wary of daycare rates that seem dramatically lower than the area average. While some providers offer legitimate value, extremely low prices can indicate understaffing, unlicensed operation, or cost-cutting that affects quality. Ask how they're able to charge less and verify their license status through the DCFS Provider Lookup.
Beyond financial assistance programs, there are practical strategies that can help bring childcare costs down to a more manageable level.
Licensed family childcare providers typically charge 20-40% less than centers while meeting the same state safety standards. Many offer the same educational activities as centers in a more intimate setting. Search for licensed home-based providers through Wonderschool's provider directory or the Illinois Network of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies.
Some providers offer discounts for part-time schedules, off-peak hours, or flexible arrangements. If you can adjust your work schedule to pick up earlier or drop off later, ask if that affects pricing. Some parents find that a four-day-per-week arrangement with a grandparent covering the fifth day provides substantial savings.
If you have more than one child in care, ask about sibling discounts. Many centers offer 5-15% off for additional children from the same family. Some providers also offer discounts for referrals or for paying tuition on an annual rather than monthly basis.
Check whether your employer offers childcare benefits beyond the Dependent Care FSA. Some companies provide:
If you have flexibility in when you return to work after parental leave, consider timing. Infant care is significantly more expensive than toddler care, and some families find that extending leave (if financially feasible) saves money in the long run. Even a few extra months can make a difference if it means starting care at a lower age-based rate.
When you visit potential providers, make sure you get complete information about costs. Here's a checklist of questions to ask:
If the numbers in this article have you feeling overwhelmed, you're not alone. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, childcare is considered "affordable" when it costs no more than 7% of a family's income. By that standard, a family would need to earn about $200,000 annually for Illinois's average infant care costs to be affordable.
That gap between what childcare costs and what families can reasonably afford is a systemic problem, not a personal failing. Childcare workers deserve fair wages, facilities need to meet safety standards, and quality programs require trained staff. These things cost money. At the same time, those costs are genuinely difficult for many families to absorb.
This is why taking advantage of every available resource, whether CCAP subsidies, tax benefits, or strategic choices about care type and location, matters so much. Every dollar you can reduce from your childcare bill is money available for other family needs.
Cost is important, but it's not the only factor in choosing childcare. The best value comes from finding a provider that meets your child's needs, supports their development, and gives you peace of mind, at a price you can sustain.
When comparing options:
Remember that the least expensive option isn't automatically the best value if it doesn't meet your family's needs, and the most expensive program isn't automatically better. Focus on finding the right fit at a sustainable price.
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