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Daycares in LOS ANGELES, CA

Find the perfect child care center in LOS ANGELES. Browse 508 licensed daycares across 1 neighborhoods, read parent reviews, and discover programs that match your family's needs.

508

Licensed Centers

1

Neighborhoods

508

Verified

0

With Reviews

Local insights for LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES has 508 licensed child care facilities across 1 communities, regulated by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS). All providers must hold a Community Care Facility License, and inspection histories are searchable through the CDSS website at cdss.ca.gov.

California's child care subsidy system is administered at the county level. In LA County, the Alternative Payment Program (APP) and CalWORKs Stage 1–3 programs provide subsidized care for income-eligible families through the LA County Office for the Education of Young Children (OECY). Eligibility is tied to work, school, or welfare-to-work participation.

LA Unified School District (LAUSD) operates Head Start and State Preschool programs at many elementary school sites — free for eligible three- and four-year-olds. The LA County Pre-K program and LA's Best after-school services complement licensed daycare for working families.

Neighbourhood highlights

Where families book tours first

  • Westside (Santa Monica, Culver City, West LA)

    Premium licensed centers and cooperative nursery schools serving entertainment and tech industry families. Expect rates at the high end and waitlists of 6–12+ months for quality infant programs.

  • San Fernando Valley (Sherman Oaks, Encino, Woodland Hills)

    Suburban centers with more availability than the Westside. Stronger mix of family-run programs and large franchise operators. Good freeway access for commuting families.

  • East Los Angeles & Boyle Heights

    Strong network of Head Start and State Preschool programs serving the community. Many bilingual English-Spanish licensed centers with good subsidy acceptance rates.

  • South Bay (Torrance, Long Beach, Carson)

    Port-adjacent and aerospace-industry families drive steady demand. Competitive rates relative to Westside; good availability in the Torrance–Long Beach corridor.

Costs & planning tips

Budget ranges plus waitlist advice

Typical fees

  • Infant care in Los Angeles averages $1,400–$2,000 per month. Toddler rooms run $1,100–$1,700; preschool $900–$1,400. Westside programs and licensed Montessori academies are at the top of those ranges.
  • California's subsidized child care has limited spots relative to demand. Contact LA County OECY at (213) 974-0931 to determine which program you qualify for and get on the appropriate waitlist — waiting lists for subsidized slots can exceed one year.

Waitlist & subsidy tips

  • For subsidized care, contact LA County OECY as early as possible. Bring proof of income, CalWORKs or employment status, and your child's birth certificate and immunization records.
  • For private center enrollment, touring and applying 6–9 months before your target start date is standard practice on the Westside. Valley and South Bay programs have shorter typical wait times.

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 LOS ANGELES

508 licensed centres across 1 neighborhoods, with programs in 1 languages. 508 verified providers Use filters to find the right fit.

Browse by Neighborhood

More Daycares in LOS ANGELES

Finding Child Care in LOS ANGELES

LOS ANGELES is home to 508 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 LOS ANGELES 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 LOS ANGELES 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
Daycare in LOS ANGELES, CA – Licensed Child Care Near You | DaycareLocator