How much does daycare cost in Quebec? (2026)

Quick answer: Subsidized daycare (CPE or private subsidized) costs $9.45/day = roughly $2,460/year per child in 2026. Non-subsidized daycare averages $40–$60/day gross, but Quebec offers a refundable tax credit that brings the real cost down to $2,000–$8,000/year per child depending on family income.

The 3 types of Quebec daycare

1. CPE (Centre de la petite enfance) — government-subsidized non-profit centers. $9.45/day flat. Highest demand, longest waitlists (6–24 months in Montreal).
2. Private subsidized (garderie privée subventionnée) — for-profit daycares with subsidized spots at the same $9.45/day rate. Easier to access than CPE.
3. Private non-subsidized (garderie privée non subventionnée) — $40–$70/day. Parents pay full price upfront, then claim a refundable Quebec tax credit on the annual return.

The Quebec daycare tax credit (refundable)

For non-subsidized daycare, Quebec refunds 26%–78% of the cost depending on family net income. Sliding scale:

How to get a daycare spot in Montreal

1. Register on La Place 0-5 (laplace0-5.com) — the single waitlist for all subsidized spots in Quebec. Apply during pregnancy.
2. Contact private non-subsidized centers directly. Many can offer a spot in 1–3 months.
3. Ask about home daycares (milieu familial) — smaller groups (max 6 kids), often available faster.
4. Bilingual & specialty centers have separate waitlists and often shorter timelines.

Daycare Quebec FAQ

How much is daycare in Quebec in 2026?

Subsidized daycare (CPE or private subsidized) costs $9.45/day, about $2,460/year per child. Non-subsidized daycare averages $40–$60/day gross, but Quebec’s refundable tax credit reduces the net cost to $2,000–$8,000/year per child depending on family income.

What’s the difference between CPE and garderie?

CPE (Centre de la petite enfance) are non-profit government-funded daycares with the longest waitlists and highest demand. Garderie privée subventionnée are for-profit daycares with the same $9.45/day subsidized spots. Garderie privée non subventionnée charge market rates and parents claim a refundable tax credit.

How long is the daycare waitlist in Montreal?

Subsidized spots (CPE) have waitlists of 6 to 24 months in most Montreal neighborhoods. Register on La Place 0-5 as soon as possible — many parents apply during pregnancy. Private non-subsidized daycares typically have spots within 1–3 months.

Is daycare tax-deductible in Quebec?

Yes for non-subsidized daycare. Quebec offers a refundable provincial tax credit (26%–78% based on income) and a federal deduction (up to $11,000 per child age 0–6). Subsidized daycare receipts cannot be claimed because the cost is already reduced.

Can I send my child to daycare before age 1?

Yes. Most Quebec daycares accept infants from 6 months onwards, though spots for under-18-months are rarer. Parents on QPIP parental leave often start daycare at 12 months as leave benefits end.

What is La Place 0-5?

La Place 0-5 (laplace0-5.com) is the centralized waitlist for all subsidized daycare spots in Quebec. Free to register, single profile covers all CPE and private subsidized centers near your address. Required for any subsidized spot.

Is private daycare better than CPE?

CPE typically has the highest quality standards (non-profit, government-audited, smaller groups). Private subsidized matches the same rate and quality oversight. Private non-subsidized varies widely — some are excellent boutique centers, others are basic. Ask for the latest inspection report.

Related Montreal tools

• Quebec Income Tax Calculator
• QPIP Parental Leave Estimator
• Montreal School Zone Finder

Sources: Ministère de la Famille du Québec, Revenu Québec daycare credit tables 2026. Estimates only.