Daycare in North Carolina
Find licensed daycare centers and home-based childcare providers across North Carolina. Browse by city or use our search to find options near you.
Average Daycare Costs in North Carolina
* 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 North Carolina
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by North Carolina 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. North Carolina regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
North Carolina Daycare Licensing
All daycare providers in North Carolina must be licensed by the state's Department of Health and Human Services (or equivalent agency). Licensing ensures that facilities meet minimum standards for:
- Health and safety requirements
- Background checks for all staff
- Child-to-staff ratios
- Staff training and qualifications
- Facility cleanliness and maintenance
- Emergency procedures
When visiting any daycare in North Carolina, always ask to see their current license and verify it with the state licensing agency. You can also request inspection reports to review any past violations or complaints.
Verify a License
Contact North Carolina's childcare licensing agency to verify any provider's license status and view inspection history.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in North Carolina, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.