How we source our data — building EEAT for accurate, trustworthy child care cost estimates
At ChildCareCostCalc, we believe that accurate child care cost estimates depend on high-quality, authoritative data. Every number you see on our site is backed by official government sources, peer-reviewed industry reports, and legally verified regulatory documents. Below we detail exactly where our data comes from and how we use it.
Our state-level child care cost data is derived from the Child Care Aware of America annual report and cross-referenced with U.S. Census Bureau median income data from the DOJ U.S. Trustee Program. Cost percentages are based on WalletHub's analysis of the CCAoA 2025 data.
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Used in: Monthly Child Care Cost Calculator, Cross-State Cost Comparison, State Guides
Nanny wage data comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics and NannyKeeper's state-by-state wage survey. Minimum wage rates are verified against state labor department websites.
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Used in: Nanny Cost Calculator, Nanny vs Daycare, Nanny Share Calculator
The Child and Dependent Care Credit calculation follows IRS Form 2441 instructions and Pub 503. DCAP limits are set by IRS Revenue Procedure updates. We use the tax year 2025–2026 rules.
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Used in: Tax Savings Calculator
Subsidy eligibility thresholds are based on the 2025–2027 CCDF State Plans published by the Office of Child Care, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
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Used in: Subsidy Eligibility Calculator
Au pair cost estimates follow U.S. Department of State regulations for the J-1 visa Exchange Visitor Program, including minimum weekly stipend ($195.75), education contribution ($500), and standard agency fee ranges.
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Used in: Au Pair Cost Calculator
Our calculators apply the following methodology to produce cost estimates:
When multiple data points exist for a single metric (e.g., center-based infant care cost in California), we use a weighted average approach. Primary sources (CCAoA, BLS) receive higher weight than secondary analyses. All costs are normalized to monthly and annual figures for consistent comparison.
Costs as a percentage of income are calculated using state median household income from the U.S. Census Bureau ACS. We use the most recent 5-year estimates to smooth year-to-year fluctuations. Single-parent income calculations adjust the median downward by 35% to reflect the single-earner household dynamic.
The Child and Dependent Care Credit is calculated by applying the applicable percentage (based on AGI) to qualifying expenses up to the IRS limit per child. DCAP savings are calculated using the marginal federal tax rate plus average state tax rate. We assume the taxpayer uses the lesser of actual expenses or the DCAP limit.
Subsidy eligibility is determined by comparing the family's income to the state-specific CCDF income threshold. We use the maximum income limit as a percentage of the State Median Income (SMI) as reported in each state's CCDF Plan. Families at or below 85% of SMI for their state and family size are shown as potentially eligible.
Au pair costs are modeled as the sum of: (1) the minimum weekly stipend mandated by the State Department, (2) the education contribution, (3) agency program fees (one-time and annual ranges), and (4) room and board estimates at the local cost of living level. Optional add-ons such as car insurance and cell phone plans are included as configurable items.
We update our underlying data on the following schedule:
Commitment to Accuracy: We strive to keep all data current and accurate. If you believe any figure on our site is outdated or incorrect, please contact us so we can investigate and correct it promptly.