The Average Costs for Child Care in Springfield, Missouri

Child care costs vary by type of provider.

Families seeking child care in Springfield, Missouri, will find a variety of options, including day care centers and home providers. In 2009, the Child Care Resource and Referral Center compiled data on the average costs of child care.

Types of Providers

Daycare centers and licensed group homes are places that provide care for a large number of children in their facilities. The state has licensing and accreditation requirements for these facilities. Home providers are usually cheaper than day care centers and group homes. They are not required to meet licensing requirements unless they provide care to more than 4 children.

Centers and Group Home Costs

Child care is more expensive if you place your child in a day care center or a group home (where a provider cares for more than eleven children). In 2009, the average cost was $163.00 per week for a child under the age of 24 months and $104.00 per week for a child between the ages of 2 and 5.

Home Provider Costs

Home providers are a cheaper option. The average weekly cost for child care was $114.00 per week for a child under 24 months and $95.00 per week for a child between 2 and 5 years of age. Licensed providers may charge more than average.

References

• Child Care Resource and Referral: Average Weekly Cost of Full Time Care
• Child Care Resource and Referral: Your Guide to Choosing Quality Child Care