Child Care Cost Overview in North Dakota
North Dakota families have access to licensed child care centers, family child care homes, and nanny options.
Compared to the national average annual infant care cost of $13,184/yr, North Dakota’s center-based infant care is approximately 18% below the national average.
Average Annual Child Care Costs in North Dakota
| Age Group | Center-Based (Annual) | Family Care (Annual) | Nanny (Annual est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant (0–12 mo) | $10,860/yr | $9,487/yr | $42,240/yr |
| Toddler (12–24 mo) | $9,991/yr | $8,728/yr | $42,240/yr |
| Preschool (3–5 yr) | $8,471/yr | $7,400/yr | $42,240/yr |
| School-age (6–12 yr) | $7,059/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 North Dakota.
Your Monthly Cost in North Dakota
Nanny Cost in North Dakota
Typical nanny pay rates in North Dakota range from $16/hour for entry-level to $22/hour for experienced nannies. A full-time experienced nanny (40 hrs/wk, 48 wks/yr) costs approximately $42,240/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 North Dakota is $7/hour. (federal rate applies).
Child Care Tax Savings for North Dakota 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 North Dakota
The Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF) subsidizes child care costs for low to moderate income families in North Dakota. Income eligibility limits are approximately $102,970 for a family of 4, based on 75% 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.