Childcare Cost in San Mateo County, CA
Infant center-based childcare in San Mateo County, CA costs $555 per week ($28,837 per year), based on DOL data. Family-based infant care is $375 per week ($19,501 per year). With a median household income of $149,907, the childcare burden index is 19.2% of income. The national median weekly infant center care cost is $174 for comparison.
Cost by Care Type
| Age Group | Center/Wk | Family/Wk |
|---|---|---|
| Infant (0-1) | $555 | $375 |
| Toddler (1-2) | $397 | $357 |
| Preschool (3-5) | $437 | $396 |
| School-Age (6+) | $439 | $363 |
Burden Index
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $149,907 |
| Burden Index | 19.2% (High) |
| National Median (Infant Center) | $174/wk |
How does San Mateo County compare?
At $555/wk for infant center care, San Mateo County runs 220% above the national median of $174/wk.
The Childcare Burden Index here is 19.2% 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 San Mateo County runs $375/wk for infants — about 32% less than center-based care, or $9,336 in annual savings. School-age care is the cheapest category at $439/wk (center) or $363/wk (family).
The data source behind this answer is the DOL National Database of Childcare Prices. Every figure on the page traces back to that source; the methodology page describes the inputs and the refresh cadence in full detail.
For readers turning this answer into action: cross-reference against the underlying the DOL National Database of Childcare Prices record before acting on time-sensitive decisions. The site renders the data as it was published; subsequent revisions can shift the picture, and the live federal data is always the authoritative current reference.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor Women’s Bureau Childcare Prices, 2026.