Child Care Ontario Calculator

This calculator helps you estimate child care costs in Ontario, including subsidies and savings. Enter your family's details to get a personalized estimate of monthly expenses.

How to Use This Calculator

To get an accurate estimate of your child care costs in Ontario:

Enter the number of children in your family
Select the age group of your children
Choose your family income level
Select the type of child care you're considering
Click "Calculate" to see your estimated monthly costs

The calculator provides estimates based on average Ontario child care costs and subsidies. For exact figures, contact your local child care provider or the Ontario Early Years Centres.

Formula Used

The calculator uses the following formula to estimate monthly child care costs:

Estimated Monthly Cost = (Average Cost per Child × Number of Children) - (Subsidy Amount × Number of Children)

The average cost per child and subsidy amounts are based on Ontario government data and vary by age group and family income level.

Worked Example

Let's calculate the estimated monthly cost for a family with two children, both aged 3-5, with a family income between $50,000 and $70,000, and using licensed child care:

Average Cost per Child (3-5 years): $1,200/month

Subsidy Amount (for $50k-$70k income): $600/month per child

Number of Children: 2

Calculation: (1,200 × 2) - (600 × 2) = $1,200 - $1,200 = $0

In this example, the family would receive full subsidies, resulting in no out-of-pocket costs.

Ontario Child Care Subsidies

Ontario offers child care subsidies to help families with the cost of child care. The amount of subsidy you receive depends on:

Your family income
The age of your child
The type of child care you're using

Subsidies are available for children under 13 years old. The maximum subsidy amount varies by age group and income level.

For the most accurate and up-to-date subsidy information, visit the Ontario government website.

Average Child Care Costs in Ontario

Child care costs vary depending on the type of care and the age of the child. Here are some average monthly costs in Ontario:

Age Group	Licensed Child Care	Family Child Care	Before/After School Care
Infants (0-12 months)	$1,500	$1,200	$800
Toddlers (1-2 years)	$1,400	$1,100	$750
Preschool (3-5 years)	$1,200	$900	$600
School Age (6-12 years)	$1,000	$800	$500

These are average costs and actual prices may vary based on location and specific program details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this child care cost calculator?: The calculator provides estimates based on average Ontario child care costs and subsidies. For exact figures, contact your local child care provider or the Ontario Early Years Centres.
Do I need to pay for child care if I receive subsidies?: You may still need to pay a portion of the child care cost if your subsidy doesn't cover the full amount. The exact amount you pay depends on your family income and the type of child care you're using.
Are there child care subsidies for single parents?: Yes, Ontario offers child care subsidies for single parents. The amount of subsidy you receive depends on your income and the age of your child.
How do I apply for child care subsidies in Ontario?: You can apply for child care subsidies through your local child care provider or by contacting the Ontario Early Years Centres. You'll need to provide proof of income and other required documents.
What types of child care qualify for subsidies?: Licensed child care centers, family child care homes, and before/after school care programs all qualify for subsidies in Ontario.