Childcare is one of the biggest expenses for Singapore families with young children. Full-day childcare can cost between $1,200 and $2,500 per month before subsidies. The good news is that the Singapore government offers significant subsidies that can reduce this by 50% to 90% depending on your household income.
Childcare Costs in Singapore
| Type | Monthly Fee (Before Subsidies) |
|---|---|
| Infant care (2 to 18 months), full day | $1,300 to $2,500 |
| Childcare (18 months to 6 years), full day | $800 to $1,800 |
| Childcare, half day | $500 to $900 |
| Home-based childcare | $700 to $1,200 |
Government Subsidies Available
MCCY (Ministry of Community, Culture and Youth) administers two main subsidies for licensed childcare centres:
- Basic Subsidy: For working mothers. Ranges from $150 to $600 per month for childcare, and $600 to $1,200 per month for infant care, depending on household income.
- Additional Subsidy: For lower-income families earning below $6,000 per month. This further reduces costs significantly.
- Centre fee: $1,200/month
- Basic Subsidy: $440/month
- Additional Subsidy: $467/month
- Out-of-pocket: approximately $293/month
How to Apply for Childcare Subsidies
- Enrol your child in a licensed childcare centre (check ECDA's list)
- Your childcare centre will apply for the subsidy on your behalf
- Provide your household income documents when requested
- Subsidies are applied directly to your monthly bill
- Review and update your income status annually
The Child Development Account (CDA)
The CDA is a special savings account for your child. The government matches every dollar you save in the CDA dollar for dollar, up to the matching cap. CDA funds can be used to pay for childcare centre fees, special education, and approved healthcare expenses.
- First step grant: $3,000 deposited automatically at birth
- Government matching: $1 for every $1 saved, up to $3,000 for child 1 and 2, and higher for subsequent children
- Funds accessible until child turns 12
Learn more about the CDA and Baby Bonus in our guide on Baby Bonus Help for Singapore Families.
Making Childcare Work for Your Budget
With subsidies and the CDA, childcare becomes much more manageable for most Singapore families. Use the Baby Expense Estimator to see your actual out-of-pocket cost after subsidies are applied. The Parental Leave Calculator helps you plan the gap before childcare starts, and the Family Finance Hub covers all the financial planning tools you need as a new parent in Singapore.