Childcare Costs in Ireland in 2026
Last updated: 4 April 2026
Childcare is one of the biggest expenses for Irish families. Costs vary significantly depending on location, service type, and your child's age. This guide provides an overview of typical costs and the government subsidies available to help.
A note on costs
The figures below are indicative ranges based on publicly available data and surveys. Actual fees vary by provider, location, and the services included. Always confirm fees directly with the childcare provider.
Typical Costs by Service Type
| Service Type | Typical Weekly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full day care (baby, 0–1) | €220–€330+ | Highest cost due to lower adult-to-child ratios |
| Full day care (toddler, 1–3) | €200–€300+ | Slightly lower than baby rooms |
| Sessional/preschool (3–5) | €0–€80 | Free under ECCE; fees may apply for extras or non-ECCE hours |
| After-school care | €60–€120 | Varies by hours and whether it includes homework support |
| Childminder | €150–€250+ | Varies widely; may include meals and more flexible hours |
Sources: Pobal Annual Early Years Sector Profile reports, publicly available survey data. Figures are approximate.
What Affects the Cost?
- Location — Dublin and urban areas tend to have higher fees than rural areas, reflecting higher rent and operating costs.
- Child's age — Baby rooms are the most expensive because regulations require more staff per child (a ratio of 1:3 for under-ones).
- Hours — Full-time (8+ hours/day) costs more than part-time or sessional care.
- What's included — Some providers include meals, nappies, and activities in the fee; others charge separately.
- Type of programme — Montessori or specialist programmes may be priced differently from standard care.
Government Subsidies and Supports
The Irish government provides two main supports to reduce childcare costs:
ECCE — Free Preschool
The ECCE programme provides 15 hours per week of free preschool for children aged 2 years 8 months to 5 years 6 months. This can save families approximately €4,000–€6,000 per year in childcare costs.
National Childcare Scheme (NCS)
The NCS provides two types of subsidy:
- Universal subsidy — Available to all families with children under 15, regardless of income. Applied as an hourly reduction off the childcare fee.
- Income-assessed subsidy— Higher subsidy for families below certain income thresholds. The amount depends on your family income, the child's age, and the number of children.
You can apply for NCS online. The subsidy is paid directly to the childcare provider, reducing the fee you pay.
Tips for Managing Childcare Costs
- Apply for the NCS — even the universal subsidy can make a meaningful difference over a year.
- Check if your employer offers a childcare salary sacrifice or benefit scheme.
- Compare fees across several providers in your area — browse facilities by county on Find a Crèche.
- Ask about sibling discounts if you have more than one child in care.
- Consider sessional care or part-time options if you don't need full-time hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a crèche cost per month in Dublin?
Full-time crèche fees in Dublin typically range from approximately €900 to €1,400+ per month for toddlers, and can be higher for babies. These are indicative figures — contact providers directly for current fees.
Can I get both ECCE and NCS?
Yes. ECCE covers 15 free hours per week. If your child attends for additional hours beyond the ECCE session, you can use the NCS to subsidise the cost of those extra hours.
Are childcare costs tax-deductible in Ireland?
Childcare costs are not directly tax-deductible in Ireland. However, the NCS provides subsidies that effectively reduce costs. Check revenue.ie for the latest tax information.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only. Information may change over time. Always verify details directly with childcare providers and official government sources. This site is not affiliated with Tusla — Child and Family Agency or any government body.