Best Daycares in La Jolla, CA — 2026 Rankings

We ranked 7 daycares and childcare centers in La Jolla based on licensing, accreditation, parent reviews, and childcare quality.

Top Daycares in La Jolla

  1. #1 — Nierman Preschool Score: 77%

    Programs: Preschool, Home service, Day care preschool. View full profile →

  2. #2 — Nieman Preschool Jewish Center Score: 77%

    Programs: Preschool. View full profile →

  3. #3 — La Jolla Village Montessori School Score: 77%

    Programs: Preschool, School, Day care preschool. View full profile →

  4. #4 — UCSD Early Childhood Education Center Score: 74%

    Programs: Preschool. View full profile →

  5. #5 — Montessori by the Sea Score: 60%

    Programs: Preschool, Home service. View full profile →

  6. #6 — Little Steps Christian Preschool Score: 60%

    Programs: Preschool, Private school, Home service. View full profile →

  7. #7 — Early Childhood Education Center Ucsd Score: 49%

    Programs: Preschool, School, Elementary school. View full profile →

How We Rank Daycares & Childcare Centers

Our Guide Score percentage combines Google rating (35%), review volume (20%), web and contact presence (20%), profile completeness (15%), accreditation such as NAEYC (5%), press recognition (3%), and years of operation (2%), then normalizes across captured positive categories. Read our full methodology →

Frequently asked questions

Who is the #1 daycare in La Jolla?
Nierman Preschool is currently the #1 ranked daycare in La Jolla based on our Guide Score, which evaluates parent reviews, licensing status, accreditation, and quality signals. See the full ranked list above.
How are daycares ranked in La Jolla?
Our Guide Score percentage combines weighted evidence from Google rating, review volume, web and contact presence, profile completeness, accreditation, press recognition, and years of operation, then normalizes across categories with captured positive evidence. There is no paid placement.
How much does daycare cost in La Jolla?
Childcare costs in La Jolla vary by program type and age group. Full-time infant care commonly ranges from $800–$2,500/month; preschool programs run $600–$1,800/month. Each center's profile page lists contact information for current rates.