How Much Does Daycare Cost in Canada? (2026 Province-by-Province Guide)

Average Daycare Cost in Canada

The cost of daycare in Canada varies depending on your location, your child's age, and the type of care you choose. On average, parents can expect to pay:

• Infants (under 18 months): $900 to $1,800+ per month
• Toddlers (18 months to 3 years): $800 to $1,500 per month
• Preschool (3–5 years): $600 to $1,200 per month

While these costs can add up quickly, there are ways to offset expenses. Many families look for ways to save through baby coupons available in Canada or by taking advantage of free baby samples in Canada, which can help reduce everyday costs like diapers, wipes, and formula.

Daycare Costs by Province

Ontario

Ontario has traditionally had some of the highest childcare costs in Canada, especially in larger cities. However, fees have been decreasing under the Canada-Wide Early Learning and Child Care (CWELCC) system.

• Infants: $1,200 to $1,800 per month
• Toddlers: $1,000 to $1,400 per month
• Preschool: $800 to $1,200 per month

British Columbia

British Columbia offers a mix of private and subsidized childcare, with additional support available through provincial programs.

• Infants: $1,100 to $1,700 per month
• Toddlers: $900 to $1,400 per month
• Preschool: $700 to $1,200 per month

Alberta

Childcare costs in Alberta have dropped in recent years due to federal funding agreements.

• Infants: $900 to $1,500 per month
• Toddlers: $800 to $1,300 per month
• Preschool: $600 to $1,000 per month

Quebec

Quebec is known for having the most affordable childcare system in Canada due to its subsidized daycare model.

• Average cost: Approximately $8 to $9 per day

However, spaces in subsidized centres can be limited, so planning ahead is essential.

What Affects Daycare Costs?

Several factors influence how much you'll pay for childcare in Canada:

Age of Your Child — Infant care is typically the most expensive due to lower caregiver-to-child ratios.

Location — Daycare in urban areas is usually more expensive than in smaller communities.

Type of Care

• Licensed daycare centres
• Home daycare providers
• Nannies or private care

Hours and Flexibility — Full-time care costs more than part-time, and extended hours may increase fees.

The $10-a-Day Childcare Plan

The Canadian government is working with provinces and territories to reduce childcare costs to an average of $10 per day.

While not all families are paying $10/day yet, many have already seen significant reductions. This initiative is expected to make childcare more accessible across the country.

How to Save on Daycare Costs

Even with government support, childcare can still be a major expense. Here are some practical ways to save:

Apply for Subsidies — Many provinces offer income-based childcare subsidies that can significantly lower your monthly costs.

Choose Participating Daycares — Centres enrolled in government programs often offer reduced fees.

Use Coupons and Deals on Essentials — Saving on everyday baby products can make a big difference over time. Many parents regularly check for baby coupons available in Canada to reduce costs on diapers, wipes, and other essentials.

Take Advantage of Free Samples — Programs offering free baby samples in Canada can help offset early expenses, especially during your baby's first year.

Enter Giveaways and Contests — Another way to reduce costs is by entering baby contests and giveaways in Canada, where you can win products like diapers, gift cards, and baby gear.

Plan Ahead — Joining daycare waitlists early can improve your chances of securing a more affordable, subsidized spot.

Is Daycare Worth the Cost?

For many families, daycare is more than just childcare. It provides structure, socialization, and early learning opportunities for children.

While the cost can feel significant, access to reliable childcare allows many parents to return to work and maintain household income, which can offset expenses in the long term.

Final Thoughts

Daycare costs in Canada are evolving, with new programs helping make childcare more affordable. However, prices still vary widely depending on your location and situation.

By understanding your options, applying for available subsidies, and finding ways to save on everyday expenses, you can better manage the cost of raising a child.

If you're budgeting for your baby's first year, you may also want to read more about how much a baby costs in Canada, along with ways to save through coupons, samples, and giveaways.