Most Americans Say Child Care Costs Major Problem

A series of recent polls from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research reveal that most Americans consider the high cost of child care a major problem, with about three-quarters expressing concern. While there is widespread support for initiatives such as free or low-cost daycare and paid family leave mandated for employers, Americans are divided on the federal government's role and the best policy solutions. Less than half of adults prioritize government assistance for child care expenses, though support crosses party lines, including a majority favoring paid parental leave. Despite falling birth rates and discussions of pronatalist policies by figures like Vice President JD Vance and others, only a small minority view declining birth rates as a major issue or believe encouraging more births should be a federal priority. The high cost of child care, which can consume a significant portion of median family income, is seen as a more immediate and pressing concern than fertility-related topics. These findings highlight the complexity of addressing child care affordability and the need for bipartisan conversations to find effective solutions.