ChildcareCost

Childcare Cost in New Hanover County, NC

Infant center-based childcare in New Hanover County, NC costs $223 per week ($11,601 per year), based on DOL data. Family-based infant care is $184 per week ($9,552 per year). With a median household income of $67,515, the childcare burden index is 17.2% of income. The national median weekly infant center care cost is $174 for comparison.

Cost by Care Type

Age GroupCenter/WkFamily/Wk
Infant (0-1)$223$184
Toddler (1-2)$173$157
Preschool (3-5)$134$157
School-Age (6+)$135$194

Burden Index

MetricValue
Median Household Income$67,515
Burden Index17.2% (High)
National Median (Infant Center)$174/wk

How does New Hanover County compare?

At $223/wk for infant center care, New Hanover County runs 29% above the national median of $174/wk.

The Childcare Burden Index here is 17.2% of median household income — a high burden, more than double the 7% HHS affordability threshold.

For families looking to lower the bill, family-based (home) daycare in New Hanover County runs $184/wk for infants — about 18% less than center-based care, or $2,049 in annual savings. School-age care is the cheapest category at $135/wk (center) or $194/wk (family).

View full New Hanover County childcare data →See all NC county rankings →Most expensive childcare areas →Try the affordability calculator →