Daycare Cost in Redwood City 2026: What Parents Actually Pay
Based on 60 state-licensed commercial child care centers (3,441 authorized slots) across Emerald Hills, Woodside Plaza, Farm Hill, Mt. Carmel, and Redwood Shores, plus California SB 1162 educator wage filings in San Mateo County, here is what Redwood City parents actually pay for infant, toddler, and preschool care in 2026.
Per month • 0–24 months • 1:4 state mandatory ratio
Per month • 2–5 years • 1:12 state mandatory ratio
San Mateo County benchmark • CA SB 1162 audited data
1. Redwood City Child Care Pricing Breakdown by Age Cohort (2026)
Monthly daycare tuition in Redwood City is governed primarily by California Title 22 staffing ratios and classroom square-footage requirements:
| Age Cohort | Title 22 Staff Ratio | Monthly Tuition Range (Redwood City) |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0–18 mos) | 1 teacher per 4 infants | $2,450 – $3,350 / mo |
| Toddlers (18–30 mos) | 1 teacher per 6 toddlers | $2,150 – $2,850 / mo |
| Preschool (2.5–5 yrs) | 1 teacher per 12 children | $1,850 – $2,500 / mo |
| TK / Pre-K Readiness | 1 teacher per 12 children | $1,650 – $2,250 / mo |
2. Top Audited Daycare Centers in Redwood City (60 Licensed Centers)
Compare CDSS inspection records, licensed capacities, and Staff Stability Scores before requesting a tuition rate sheet on tour.
Compare Redwood City Tuition Against Safety & Inspection Records
Families earning below 85% of the California State Median Income (SMI) can check eligibility for $0 or capped 1% family-fee child care through Child Care Coordinating Council (4Cs) of San Mateo County. Always verify a center's 36-month CDSS inspection record alongside its tuition sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions (Redwood City Daycare Costs)
What is the average monthly cost of daycare in Redwood City, CA in 2026?
Full-time infant child care (0–24 months) in Redwood City averages $2,450 – $3,350 per month. Full-time toddler care (18–30 months) ranges from $2,150 – $2,850 per month, and preschool care (ages 2–5) averages $1,850 – $2,500 per month across 60 licensed centers.
How many licensed daycare centers operate in Redwood City?
According to California CDSS licensing records (updated October 20, 2026), Redwood City has 60 commercial child care centers providing 3,441 licensed child care slots across Emerald Hills, Woodside Plaza, Farm Hill, Mt. Carmel, and Redwood Shores.
Are child care subsidies available for families in Redwood City?
Yes. Families earning below 85% of the California State Median Income (SMI) can apply for tuition assistance and sliding-scale vouchers through Child Care Coordinating Council (4Cs) of San Mateo County.
Get citation alerts when a Redwood City daycare receives a new CDSS citation
California State Social Services (CDSS) conducts unannounced annual and complaint inspections. We continuously scan the state licensing docket and email you immediately if a new Type A hazard or staffing ratio citation is posted.