Licensed Daycare in Michigan
Search 3,900 verified daycare and childcare centers across Michigan, sourced directly from Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Michigan Childcare Licensing
In Michigan, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:4 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:10 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.
Verify a license at Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care LicensingWhat's distinctive about Michigan: Michigan's ratio is the country's strictest for toddlers (1:4). CDC subsidies serve families up to 200% federal poverty level. Detroit metro hosts the densest cluster of providers.
Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:4
- Preschool ratio
- 1:10
- Avg infant cost
- $970/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $720/mo
Michigan Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Michigan families can apply for Child Development and Care (CDC) Program based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.
Local intake line: (866) 990-3227
Recently Verified Centers
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Daycare in Michigan — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Michigan is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Michigan?
How much does daycare cost in Michigan?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Michigan?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Michigan daycare?
Search 3,900 Licensed Michigan Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.