New York, Rhode Island Have Highest Child Care Costs

Child care costs remain a significant financial burden for families in the United States, with wide variation between states. New York ranks as the most expensive state for child care, with married couples spending 11-13% and single parents up to 45% of their income on care. Rhode Island and Massachusetts are also among the most costly states, with Rhode Island couples spending 11% and single parents 39%, and Massachusetts couples 12% and single parents 49% of their income on center-based care. Georgia ranks among the more affordable states, with couples spending a median of 8.72% and single parents 28.1%. The lowest child care expenses are found in Mississippi, South Carolina, and South Dakota. These high costs are particularly burdensome for the 66.5% of families with both parents working, underscoring the urgent need for policies improving affordability and access.