What this calculator does
This calculator estimates the yearly cost of childcare in Los Angeles by type of care and number of children, then shows how much a dependent care FSA can save. Childcare prices in Los Angeles vary sharply between neighborhoods. California's universal transitional kindergarten (TK) now covers all four-year-olds, which lowers costs for families with a child of that age.
How to use it
- Choose center-based care by age, a family child care home or a nanny.
- Enter the number of children and the schedule.
- Enter household income and filing status for the tax saving.
- Tick the FSA box if your employer offers one.
The formula
Center or family care = Los Angeles starting price × (days ÷ 5) × (weeks ÷ 50), with a 10% sibling discount for each additional child. Nanny = hourly rate × hours × weeks × 1.0765 (employer payroll taxes). FSA saving = the lower of $7,500 or the cost × your combined marginal tax rate.
Starting estimates used for Los Angeles: infant center $25,000, toddler $22,000, preschool $18,500, family child care $16,000 per year, nanny $25 an hour. These are Rate and Reason estimates, not official figures.
Worked example for Los Angeles
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Care type | infant |
| Children | 1 |
| Starting price per child (Los Angeles estimate) | $25,000 |
| Yearly cost | $25,000 |
| Dependent care FSA (up to $7,500) x your marginal rate 40.9% | -$3,071 |
| Net yearly cost | $21,929 |
What affects childcare costs in Los Angeles
Staff-to-child ratios set by the state are the main reason infant care costs more than preschool. Housing and transportation are the two biggest costs in Los Angeles. Unlike NYC or San Francisco, most households need at least one car.
Common mistakes and tips
- Joining waitlists late — many centers have long waits for infant rooms.
- Missing the FSA enrollment window, which is usually open enrollment or a qualifying life event.
- Forgetting nanny payroll obligations, including Schedule H and state unemployment tax.
- Not checking free public pre-K or subsidy eligibility, which can remove a large cost.
Frequently asked questions
How much does daycare cost in Los Angeles?
This estimate for full-time infant care is $25,000 a year. Prices vary widely by neighborhood and provider.
What is the dependent care FSA limit for 2026?
$7,500 per household, up from $5,000, under the 2025 federal tax law.
Can I use the FSA and the child care tax credit together?
Not on the same dollars. Expenses paid with FSA money cannot also be claimed for the credit.
Is there free pre-K in Los Angeles?
Yes. California's transitional kindergarten (TK) is now open to all four-year-olds in public schools at no cost, including in LAUSD. TK follows the school calendar, so families who work full time may still need paid before- and after-school care.
Sources
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, legal, real estate, or insurance advice. Consult a licensed professional before making decisions.