Child care costs can vary widely, depending on the location, size of the center, the age of the child, and other factors. To see what the average costs are for child care in Missouri, download a summary for centers and for family child care. If you need more detailed information for a particular area or type of program, please call us and a referral specialist can help. 

Financial Assistance for Families

Financial assistance is also available to families that might not otherwise be able to afford quality child care. Click on any of the links below to learn more about these programs.

Missouri state child care assistance/subsidy: The Missouri Child Care Assistance program provides assistance with payment for child care on a sliding fee basis for eligible parents/guardians. The purpose of the Child Care Assistance program is to enable families to gain employment and remain employed.    

Military Child Care Assistance: The National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) is working with the U.S. Military Services to help those who serve in the military find and afford child care that suits their unique needs. Through the fee assistance program, families are eligible to receive a monthly subsidy to help offset the cost of child care in their communities.   

Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The earned income tax credit is a benefit for certain people who work and have low to moderate wages. A tax credit means more money in your pocket. It reduces the amount of tax you owe and may also give you a refund.   

Scholarships – some child care programs receive local funding from community partners to help off-set the cost of child care to qualifying families. Call your local United Way to inquire about such scholarships.

Sliding fee scales and multi-child discounts – some child care programs offer adjustable rates dependent upon the income of the family and/or the number of children enrolled at the program. Check with your program to see what is available.