Daycare in Texas
Browse 11,113 licensed daycare centers and family childcare homes across Texas.
Average Daycare Costs in Texas
* 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 239 counties
Verify Provider Licenses
Check any provider's licensing status with Texas's official database.
Types of Daycare in Texas
Licensed Daycare Centers
Commercial facilities licensed by Texas 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. Texas regulates home-based providers to ensure safe environments and appropriate care.
- • Home-like environment
- • Smaller group sizes
- • Often more flexible schedules
- • Mixed age groups
Texas Licensing Agency
Required Staff Ratios
| Age Group | Texas Requires | NAEYC Recommends |
|---|---|---|
| Infants | 1:4 | 1:3 |
| Toddlers | 1:9 | 1:4 |
| Preschool | 1:15 | 1:8 |
| School Age | 1:26 | 1:10 |
Infants are 0-17 months. Texas allows higher ratios than most states.
Childcare Assistance
Texas Workforce Commission Child Care Services
Administered by: Local Workforce Development Boards
Income Eligibility
85% of State Median Income (about $68,000 for family of 4)
Quality Rating System
Texas Rising Star
Texas uses a 4-level quality rating system. Look for rated providers for assurance of quality.
Find rated providersState Pre-K Program
Texas Public School Prekindergarten
Who qualifies: 3 and 4-year-olds who qualify
Income: Free for income-eligible (185% FPL), homeless, foster, military, or ELL students
Learn more about Pre-KThings to Know About Texas Childcare
- •Texas has no state income tax, which can offset higher childcare costs.
- •Major metros (Houston, Dallas, Austin) have higher costs than rural areas.
Ready to Start Your Search?
Use our calculator to estimate daycare costs in Texas, then explore our guide to choosing the right provider.