What’s the Average Cost of Childcare in Ohio?
For many families in Ohio, childcare is not just a necessity, it’s one of the largest monthly expenses. Whether you live in Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, or a smaller town, understanding the average cost of childcare in Ohio can help you plan your budget and choose the right care for your child.
Posted on:
January 2, 2026
Childcare costs across Ohio depend on several important factors:
• Child’s age (infant care is the most expensive)
• Type of childcare (center-based, home-based, or in-home care)
• Location (urban vs rural areas)
• Number of care hours (full-time or part-time)
• Licensing and quality standards
Infant programs require lower staff-to-child ratios and constant supervision, which significantly increases costs compared to toddler and preschool programs.
The table below shows typical monthly and annual childcare costs in Ohio, grouped by age:
Age Group | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost |
Infant | $900 – $1,500 | $9,000 –$12,000 |
Toddler | $750 – $1,200 | $7,000 –$10,000 |
Preschool | $600 – $1,000 | $6,000 – $9,000 |
Infant childcare often costs as much as rent or a mortgage, while preschool programs are more affordable but still a major expense for families.
Average Childcare Costs in Ohio (Hourly & Daily)
Childcare Setting | Hourly Cost | Daily Cost |
Center-Based Childcare | $8 – $15 | $60 – $90 |
Home-Based Childcare | $6 – $12 | $45 – $75 |
In-Home Childcare (Nanny) | $10 – $20 | $80 – $150 |
Rates vary based on caregiver experience, number of children, and location.
Here’s a simple comparison table showing how different childcare options compare:
Childcare Type | Cost Level | Flexibility | Best Suited For |
Center-Based Childcare | Medium to High | Low | Full-time working parents |
Home-Based Childcare | Low to Medium | Medium | Budget-conscious families |
In-Home Childcare (Nanny) | High | High | Families needing flexible schedules |
Each childcare type offers different benefits depending on family needs, budget, and scheduling requirements.
Average Childcare Costs by City in Ohio
City | Infant | Toddler | Preschool |
Columbus | $1,200 –$1,500 | $900 –$1,200 | $750 –$1,000 |
Cleveland | $1,000 –$1,300 | $800 –$1,100 | $650 – $950 |
Cincinnati | $1,050 –$1,400 | $850 –$1,150 | $700 –$1,000 |
Dayton | $850 – $1,100 | $700 – $950 | $600 – $850 |
Toledo | $800 – $1,050 | $650 – $900 | $550 – $800 |
Akron | $850 – $1,100 | $700 – $950 | $600 – $850 |
Rural Ohio | $700 – $950 | $600 – $850 | $500 – $750 |
Urban areas tend to have higher childcare costs due to demand and operating expenses, while rural areas are generally more affordable with fewer available options.
How Childcare Impacts Family Budgets
Tips to Manage Childcare Costs
• Compare multiple childcare providers
• Ask about sibling discounts
• Consider part-time or flexible schedules
• Apply for assistance programs early
• Explore home-based childcare options
Final Thoughts
Childcare in Ohio is a major financial commitment - but it’s also an investment in your child’s growth, safety, and early learning. While costs vary by age, location, and type of childcare, understanding the averages can help families budget wisely and make confident decisions.
1Core Solution is a comprehensive childcare management platform built to support the daily needs of childcare centers and early education providers. With tools for online billing, parent engagement, admissions, attendance, lesson planning, and staff management, 1Core brings your center’s operations into one centralized, easy-to-use system. Designed with both educators and administrators in mind, 1Core helps reduce manual tasks, improve communication, and enhance the experience for families and staff alike. Backed by dependable support and strong data security, 1Core gives you the freedom to focus less on paperwork and more on creating meaningful moments with the children in your care.
Nemitha M
Digital Marketing Executive | 1Core Solution
A creative thinker bringing fresh, innovative ideas backed by market research, competitor analysis, and compelling website content to fuel SaaS growth. Passionate about building brand connections through thoughtful digital strategies.
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