Daycare in California
Browse 25,407 licensed daycare centers and family childcare homes across California.
Average Daycare Costs in California
* Costs vary by location, facility type, and program. These are state averages for full-time care.
Browse by County
Select a county to view licensed daycare providers in that area.
Show all 24 counties
Verify Provider Licenses
Check any provider's licensing status with California's official database.
Types of Daycare in California
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by California to provide group childcare. Centers must meet state standards for safety, staff qualifications, and child-to-staff ratios.
- • State-licensed and inspected
- • Structured educational programs
- • Multiple age-appropriate classrooms
- • Full-time and part-time options
Family Childcare Homes
Licensed providers who care for children in their home. California regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
California Licensing Agency
Required Staff Ratios
| Age Group | California Requires | NAEYC Recommends |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | 1:4 | 1:3 |
| Toddlers | 1:6 | 1:4 |
| Preschool | 1:12 | 1:8 |
| School Age | 1:14 | 1:10 |
Infants are 0-18 months. Centers must maintain ratios at all times.
Childcare Assistance
California Child Care and Development Programs
Administered by: California Department of Education
Income Eligibility
85% of State Median Income (about $75,000 for family of 4)
Quality Rating System
Quality Counts California
California uses a 5-level quality rating system. Look for rated providers for assurance of quality.
Find rated providersState Pre-K Program
California State Preschool Program (CSPP) & Transitional Kindergarten
Who qualifies: 4-year-olds (TK) and 3-4 year-olds (CSPP)
Income: TK is universal; CSPP is income-based (100% SMI)
Learn more about Pre-KThings to Know About California Childcare
- •California has some of the highest childcare costs in the nation, especially in the Bay Area.
- •Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is expanding to all 4-year-olds by 2025-26.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in California, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.