Daycare Cost in San Jose 2026: What Parents Actually Pay
Based on 332 state-licensed commercial child care centers (20,945 authorized slots) across Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, Berryessa, North San Jose, Evergreen, Cambrian, and Rose Garden, plus California SB 1162 educator wage filings in Santa Clara County, here is what San Jose 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
Santa Clara County benchmark • CA SB 1162 audited data
1. San Jose Child Care Pricing Breakdown by Age Cohort (2026)
Monthly daycare tuition in San Jose is governed primarily by California Title 22 staffing ratios and classroom square-footage requirements:
| Age Cohort | Title 22 Staff Ratio | Monthly Tuition Range (San Jose) |
|---|---|---|
| Infants (0–18 mos) | 1 teacher per 4 infants | $2,450 – $3,300 / 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 San Jose (332 Licensed Centers)
Compare CDSS inspection records, licensed capacities, and Staff Stability Scores before requesting a tuition rate sheet on tour.
Compare San Jose 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 Choices for Children & Santa Clara County Office of Education. Always verify a center's 36-month CDSS inspection record alongside its tuition sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions (San Jose Daycare Costs)
What is the average monthly cost of daycare in San Jose, CA in 2026?
Full-time infant child care (0–24 months) in San Jose averages $2,450 – $3,300 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 332 licensed centers.
How many licensed daycare centers operate in San Jose?
According to California CDSS licensing records (updated October 20, 2026), San Jose has 332 commercial child care centers providing 20,945 licensed child care slots across Willow Glen, Almaden Valley, Berryessa, North San Jose, Evergreen, Cambrian, and Rose Garden.
Are child care subsidies available for families in San Jose?
Yes. Families earning below 85% of the California State Median Income (SMI) can apply for tuition assistance and sliding-scale vouchers through Choices for Children & Santa Clara County Office of Education.
Get citation alerts when a San Jose 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.