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Licensed Daycare in South Carolina

Search 2,275 verified daycare and childcare centers across South Carolina, sourced directly from South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.

2,275
Licensed Centers
$870/mo
Avg Infant Care
$680/mo
Avg Preschool
1:6
Infant Ratio

South Carolina Childcare Licensing

In South Carolina, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.

Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:6 for infants under 12 months, 1:8 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:18 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.

Verify a license at South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services

Quick licensing facts

Regulator
South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services
Infant ratio
1:6
Toddler ratio
1:8
Preschool ratio
1:18
Avg infant cost
$870/mo
Avg preschool cost
$680/mo
Financial help

South Carolina Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits

South Carolina families can apply for South Carolina Voucher Program (ABC Quality) 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: (800) 476-0199

Check Subsidy Eligibility Estimate Your Cost

Daycare in South Carolina — Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know a daycare in South Carolina is licensed?
Every center listed here is verified against the South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services database. Look for the 'Licensed' badge on each profile. You can also confirm directly via the agency's lookup tool at https://dss.sc.gov/childcare/find-child-care/.
What is the staff-to-child ratio in South Carolina?
State minimums in South Carolina are roughly 1:6 infants, 1:8 toddlers, and 1:18 preschool. NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below these ceilings.
How much does daycare cost in South Carolina?
Full-time infant care averages about $870/month; preschool runs around $680/month. Costs vary by city — large metros like South Carolina trend higher than rural areas.
Are subsidies available for childcare in South Carolina?
Yes. The primary state program is South Carolina Voucher Program (ABC Quality), reachable at (800) 476-0199. Federal options like Head Start, the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, and Dependent Care FSA also apply. See our subsidies guide for eligibility rules.
How do I report unsafe conditions at a South Carolina daycare?
File a complaint with the South Carolina DSS — Division of Child Care Services via their website. Inspections are public record; severe violations result in license suspension.

Search 2,275 Licensed South Carolina Centers

Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.