How much does daycare cost in Phoenix, AZ?

Phoenix is moderately priced for childcare. Full-time infant care in Phoenix runs approximately $850–$1,250/month, with toddler care at $800–$1,100/month and preschool-age care at $700–$1,000/month. Costs are higher in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley; lower in Mesa, Chandler, and Peoria.

How do I look up a daycare license in Arizona?

The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Division of Licensing Services maintains the online licensing portal for daycare centers and group homes. You can search by facility name, city, or zip code to verify license status and view inspection history.

Does Arizona offer childcare assistance?

Yes. Arizona administers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through the Department of Economic Security. Eligibility is based on family income and work or school status. Families can apply through the DES HEAplus portal or at a local DES office.

Best Daycares in Phoenix, AZ: A Parent's Guide

May 23, 2026

Phoenix's Childcare Market

Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing large cities in the United States, and its childcare market has expanded to match. The Phoenix metro — which includes Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and Peoria — offers hundreds of licensed daycare options across a wide range of program types and price points. Arizona's licensing and inspection system is managed by the Department of Health Services, which publishes inspection records online.

Key Neighborhoods and Suburbs for Families

Arcadia / Biltmore: Established neighborhoods with well-resourced centers and strong preschool programs
Scottsdale: Higher-cost area with multiple accredited centers and Montessori options; particularly strong in north Scottsdale
Tempe / Chandler: University-adjacent area with a mix of affordable and mid-range centers; strong coverage near ASU
Gilbert / Mesa: Rapidly growing family communities with many newer daycare facilities; competitive pricing
Peoria / Glendale: West Valley options at lower price points; strong growth in new center construction
Ahwatukee: South Phoenix suburb with a concentration of family-oriented services including licensed daycare

Arizona Licensing: What to Know

Arizona licenses daycare centers under two categories: Group Child Care Homes (6–10 children) and Child Care Centers (11+ children). All must meet ADHS standards for staff ratios, background checks, facility safety, and health. Arizona's minimum ratios: infants (under 2) 1:5; toddlers 2–3 years 1:8; preschoolers 3–5 years 1:13. Look for centers that operate at or below 1:4 for infants and 1:6 for toddlers for the highest quality care.

Summer Care Planning in Phoenix

Phoenix's extreme summer heat (110°F+) has direct implications for daycare quality — specifically outdoor play. The best Phoenix centers have shaded outdoor structures, water play features, and adjusted outdoor schedules (early morning or late afternoon) to avoid peak heat. Ask specifically about the outdoor policy during June, July, and August when evaluating summer care.

Finding Phoenix Daycares

Compare licensed daycare centers across Phoenix and surrounding cities at Phoenix daycares. Filter by neighborhood, verify licenses through the ADHS portal, and schedule tours during active care hours — ideally mid-morning — before making a final decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does daycare cost in Phoenix, AZ?: Phoenix is moderately priced for childcare. Full-time infant care in Phoenix runs approximately $850–$1,250/month, with toddler care at $800–$1,100/month and preschool-age care at $700–$1,000/month. Costs are higher in Scottsdale and Paradise Valley; lower in Mesa, Chandler, and Peoria.
How do I look up a daycare license in Arizona?: The Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS) Division of Licensing Services maintains the online licensing portal for daycare centers and group homes. You can search by facility name, city, or zip code to verify license status and view inspection history.
Does Arizona offer childcare assistance?: Yes. Arizona administers the Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP) through the Department of Economic Security. Eligibility is based on family income and work or school status. Families can apply through the DES HEAplus portal or at a local DES office.