Childcare Worker Salary (2025)
Childcare workers supervise and care for children.
The median Childcare Worker salary is $29,880 per year ($14/hour). Entry-level Childcare Workers earn around $22,000 while experienced Childcare Workers earn $42,000 or more annually.
Childcare worker salaries vary based on experience, specialization, and location. Specializations such as early childhood education or special needs support can command higher pay, often exceeding $42,000. Regional factors also play a significant role; for instance, states with higher costs of living, like California or New York, typically offer salaries above the national median of $29,880.
AI-generated insight based on BLS data · For reference only
Salary Range
Median: $29,880 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Childcare Workers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $42,000 | +41% |
| California | $41,000 | +37% |
| New York | $38,000 | +27% |
| Alaska | $37,000 | +24% |
| Massachusetts | $37,000 | +24% |
| New Jersey | $36,000 | +20% |
| Connecticut | $35,000 | +17% |
| Washington | $34,000 | +14% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Childcare Worker
Most Childcare Worker positions require: High school diploma + childcare certification. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Childcare Worker Salary by State
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Childcare Worker salary?
The median Childcare Worker salary is $29,880 per year, which works out to approximately $14/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Childcare Worker make?
Entry-level Childcare Workers typically earn around $22,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Childcare Worker's salary?
Experienced Childcare Workers can earn up to $42,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Childcare Worker?
Most Childcare Worker positions require: High school diploma + childcare certification.