Daycare in Illinois
Find licensed daycare centers and home-based childcare providers across Illinois. Browse by city or use our search to find options near you.
Average Daycare Costs in Illinois
* 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 Illinois
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by Illinois 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. Illinois regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
Illinois Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services - Licensing
Required Staff Ratios
| Age Group | Illinois Requires | NAEYC Recommends |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | 1:4 | 1:3 |
| Toddlers | 1:5 | 1:4 |
| Preschool | 1:10 | 1:8 |
| School Age | 1:20 | 1:10 |
Infants are 6 weeks to 15 months. Toddlers are 15-36 months.
Childcare Assistance
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Administered by: Illinois Department of Human Services
Income Eligibility
225% of Federal Poverty Level (about $70,000 for family of 4)
Quality Rating System
ExceleRate Illinois
Illinois uses a 4-level quality rating system. Look for rated providers for assurance of quality.
Find rated providersState Pre-K Program
Preschool for All & Prevention Initiative
Who qualifies: 3 and 4-year-olds
Income: Priority to at-risk children; available to all in some districts
Learn more about Pre-KThings to Know About Illinois Childcare
- •Chicago and suburbs have significantly higher costs than downstate Illinois.
- •Illinois expanded CCAP income limits significantly in 2022.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in Illinois, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.