Daycares in Philadelphia, PA
Find the perfect child care center in Philadelphia. Browse 1118 licensed daycares across 1 neighborhoods, read parent reviews, and discover programs that match your family's needs.
1118
Licensed Centers
1
Neighborhoods
1118
Verified
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With Reviews
Local insights for Philadelphia
Philadelphia has 1,118 licensed child care programs regulated by the Pennsylvania Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL), which operates under DHS and PDE. Inspection reports are publicly available through Pennsylvania's Child Care Works online provider search.
Pennsylvania's Child Care Works (CCW) subsidy program covers child care costs for income-eligible families through the Early Learning Resource Center (ELRC). In Philadelphia, ELRC Region 22 manages School Readiness applications — find contact information and apply at dhs.pa.gov. Families must be working, in job training, or enrolled in school.
Keystone STARS is Pennsylvania's quality rating and improvement system, rating providers 1–4 stars based on staff qualifications, learning environments, and family partnerships. Philadelphia Childcare Connect is a local resource for navigating options, subsidies, and quality ratings in one place.
Neighbourhood highlights
Where families book tours first
Center City & Old City
Urban licensed centers catering to downtown professionals. Many offer extended hours for commuters. Proximity to SEPTA transit lines makes them practical for car-free families.
West Philadelphia & University City
University of Pennsylvania and Drexel faculty and student families drive strong demand here. Several center-based programs operate in partnership with local universities.
Northeast Philadelphia
Largest geographic district with the most licensed centers and generally shorter waitlists. Strong mix of independent operators and faith-based programs serving diverse communities.
South Philadelphia & Passyunk
Neighborhood-rooted programs with long community histories. Growing number of bilingual English-Spanish options serving South Philly's expanding Latino communities.
Costs & planning tips
Budget ranges plus waitlist advice
Typical fees
- Infant care in Philadelphia averages $900–$1,250 per month. Toddler and preschool classrooms typically range $750–$1,050. Pennsylvania's average ranks mid-range nationally.
- Philadelphia's PHLpreK program provides free, high-quality pre-K seats for three- and four-year-olds at participating community programs. PHLpreK is separate from state-funded Head Start and available at many licensed centers — check eligibility and availability at phila.gov/phlprek.
Waitlist & subsidy tips
- Submit your CCW application through ELRC Region 22 as early as possible — waitlists for subsidized spots can stretch several months. Bring tax returns, proof of employment or school enrollment, and your child's immunization records.
- For PHLpreK, applications typically open in March for the following September start. Seats are awarded by lottery if oversubscribed, so apply even if acceptance isn't guaranteed.
Cost estimates are approximate and based on publicly available data. Fees, subsidy eligibility, and program availability change frequently — verify current details directly with providers and your local subsidy agency.
Why this matters in Philadelphia
1118 licensed centres across 1 neighborhoods, with programs in 1 languages. 1118 verified providers Use filters to find the right fit.
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Finding Child Care in Philadelphia
Philadelphia is home to 1118 licensed daycare centers serving families across 1 distinct neighborhoods. Whether you're looking for infant care, toddler programs, or preschool education, you'll find quality child care options throughout the city that meet your family's needs.
Daycare Options by Neighborhood
Each neighborhood in Philadelphia offers unique child care options. From downtown centers with extended hours for working parents to suburban facilities with large outdoor play areas, you can find the perfect match for your child's needs and your family's schedule.
What to Look for in a Philadelphia Daycare
- Licensed and regulated facilities by the provincial government
- Qualified early childhood educators with proper certifications
- Age-appropriate programs and developmental activities
- Safe, clean, and stimulating environments
- Convenient location near home or work
- Subsidy acceptance for eligible families