What is the federal benchmark for affordable childcare?

The federal benchmark defines affordable childcare as costing no more than 7 percent of a household's income.

How does the high cost of childcare affect housing stability?

The high cost of childcare contributes to difficult housing decisions, with families with children accounting for over half of eviction filings nationwide.

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Childcare Costs Skyrocket: No State Meets Affordability Benchmark

Q: How do infant care costs compare to college tuition in the US?

Infant care costs now exceed in-state public college tuition in 29 states and the District of Columbia.

29 Apr

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Summary

No US state meets federal childcare affordability standards.
Infant care costs exceed public college tuition in 29 states.
Childcare costs contribute significantly to eviction filings.

Childcare Costs Skyrocket: No State Meets Affordability Benchmark

Childcare costs have reached unaffordable levels nationwide, with no U.S. state meeting the federal benchmark of costing no more than 7 percent of a household's income. Even families with typical incomes are paying significantly more, challenging the notion that affordability is solely a low-income issue.

Infant care expenses now exceed in-state public college tuition in 29 states and the District of Columbia. This rapid price climb is attributed to factors like staffing shortages, low wages for childcare workers, and rising operational costs.