Daycare in Florida
Find licensed daycare centers and home-based childcare providers across Florida. Browse by city or use our search to find options near you.
Average Daycare Costs in Florida
* Costs vary by location, facility type, and program. These are state averages for full-time care.
Browse by City
Select a city to view licensed daycare providers in that area.
Don't see your city? Use the search at the top of the page or contact us to request your area.
Types of Daycare in Florida
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by Florida 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. Florida regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
Florida Licensing Agency
Florida Department of Children and Families - Child Care Services
Required Staff Ratios
| Age Group | Florida Requires | NAEYC Recommends |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | 1:4 | 1:3 |
| Toddlers | 1:6 | 1:4 |
| Preschool | 1:10 | 1:8 |
| School Age | 1:25 | 1:10 |
Infants are 0-12 months. Toddlers are 1-2 years.
Childcare Assistance
School Readiness Program
Administered by: Early Learning Coalitions
Income Eligibility
150% of Federal Poverty Level (about $46,000 for family of 4)
Quality Rating System
Gold Seal Quality Care Program
Florida uses a 1-level quality rating system. Look for rated providers for assurance of quality.
Find rated providersState Pre-K Program
Voluntary Prekindergarten (VPK)
Who qualifies: 4-year-olds (must be 4 by September 1)
Income: Universal - free for all Florida 4-year-olds
Learn more about Pre-KThings to Know About Florida Childcare
- •Florida offers free VPK for all 4-year-olds - one of the best state pre-K programs.
- •School Readiness combines childcare with early learning for low-income families.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in Florida, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.