Child Care Cost Overview in Alaska
Alaska families have access to licensed center-based care, family child care homes, and nanny options. The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) manages the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). The median family income for a family of 4 is $127,641/year.
Compared to the national average annual infant care cost of $13,184/yr, Alaska’s center-based infant care is approximately 19% below the national average.
Average Annual Child Care Costs in Alaska
| Age Group | Center-Based (Annual) | Family Care (Annual) | Nanny (Annual est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–12 mo) | $10,722/yr | $8,948/yr | $48,000/yr |
| Toddler (12–24 mo) | $9,864/yr | $8,232/yr | $48,000/yr |
| Preschool (3–5 yr) | $8,363/yr | $6,979/yr | $48,000/yr |
| School-age (6–12 yr) | $6,969/yr | $0/yr | — |
* Nanny annual cost estimated at experienced nanny rate × 40 hrs/wk × 48 wks/yr. Actual costs vary.
Monthly Child Care Cost Calculator
Use the calculator below to estimate your family’s monthly child care costs in Alaska.
Your Monthly Cost in Alaska
Nanny Cost in Alaska
Typical nanny pay rates in Alaska range from $20/hour for entry-level to $25/hour for experienced nannies. A full-time experienced nanny (40 hrs/wk, 48 wks/yr) costs approximately $48,000/year in gross wages, plus employer taxes (Social Security 6.2%, Medicare 1.45%, FUTA 0.6%, and state UI). The minimum wage for nannies in Alaska is $12/hour.
Child Care Tax Savings for Alaska Families
Families can reduce their child care costs through two federal tax mechanisms:
- Child and Dependent Care Credit: A tax credit worth 20-35% of up to $3,000 in qualifying expenses for one child or $6,000 for two or more children.
- Dependent Care FSA: Pre-tax savings of up to $5,000 through an employer-sponsored account.
CCDF Child Care Subsidy in Alaska
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) subsidizes child care costs for low to moderate income families in Alaska. Income eligibility limits are approximately $108,495 for a family of 4, based on 85% of the state median income. Families with incomes at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level may have copayments waived entirely. Copays for other families are capped at 7% of gross monthly income under federal rules.