Skip to main content

Licensed Daycares in Seattle, WA

Seattle, WA has 334 licensed daycares through the Washington Dept. of Children, Youth, and Families. 93% accept infants. Average centre capacity is 74 children.

334

Licensed Centers

0

Neighborhoods

334

Verified

93%

Accept Infants

Daycares in WA are regulated by the Washington Dept. of Children, Youth, and Families.

Local insights for Seattle

Seattle has 334 licensed child care programs across 0 neighborhoods. All providers are licensed and inspected by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth, and Families (DCYF). Licensing records are publicly available at dcyf.wa.gov.

Working Connections Child Care (WCCC) is Washington's primary subsidy program for income-eligible families. Eligibility is based on household size and income relative to the state median income. Apply through DCYF or a local Community Services Office. Seattle City Light and some employers also offer supplemental childcare benefits.

Early Achievers is Washington's voluntary quality rating system, rating providers 1–5 stars. Centers rated Level 3–5 have been assessed against a research-based quality framework. Many Seattle-area families specifically seek Level 4–5 programs for toddlers and preschoolers.

Neighbourhood highlights

Where families book tours first

  • Capitol Hill & First Hill

    Dense urban neighborhood with walkable centers close to hospitals and tech offices. Strong demand from medical and Amazon employees — expect waitlists of 6–12 months for infant spots.

  • Ballard & Crown Hill

    Family-friendly northwest Seattle with a mix of play-based, Montessori, and Waldorf-influenced programs. Shorter waitlists than Capitol Hill and more outdoor space.

  • Bellevue & Redmond (Eastside)

    Tech corridor hubs serving Microsoft and Amazon Eastside campus employees. Premium facilities, many rated Early Achievers Level 4–5. Higher rates than Seattle proper.

  • South Seattle & Rainier Valley

    Diverse communities with culturally responsive programs in Somali, Vietnamese, Spanish, and other languages. Generally more affordable with good WCCC subsidy acceptance.

Costs & planning tips

Budget ranges plus waitlist advice

Typical fees

  • Infant care in Seattle averages $1,400–$1,900 per month — among the highest in the US. Toddler rooms run $1,200–$1,600; preschool $1,000–$1,400. Eastside Bellevue and Redmond are at the upper end of those ranges.
  • Washington State's WCCC subsidy can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. A family of three with income at 60% of state median income ($55,000–$60,000) may qualify for full or near-full subsidy coverage at participating centers.

Waitlist & subsidy tips

  • Seattle-area infant spots at highly rated centers routinely have 12–18 month waitlists. Apply at birth or even during pregnancy for Capitol Hill and Bellevue programs.
  • Seattle's Office of Housing runs the Seattle Preschool Program (SPP), offering subsidized full-day pre-K for three- and four-year-olds at community-based centers. Applications open each spring — check seattle.gov/education/seattle-preschool-program.

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.

Pourquoi c'est important à Seattle

334 centres agréés dans 0 quartiers, programmes en 1 langues.

All Daycares in Seattle

Finding Child Care in Seattle

Seattle is home to 334 licensed daycare centers serving families across 0 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 Seattle 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 Seattle 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
Licensed Daycares in Seattle, WA — 334 Listed | DaycareLocator