Licensed Daycare in Massachusetts
Search 9,050 verified daycare and childcare centers across Massachusetts, sourced directly from Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.
Massachusetts Childcare Licensing
In Massachusetts, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC). Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.
Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:3 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 Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)Quick licensing facts
- Regulator
- Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (EEC)
- Infant ratio
- 1:3
- Toddler ratio
- 1:4
- Preschool ratio
- 1:10
- Avg infant cost
- $2,300/mo
- Avg preschool cost
- $1,640/mo
Top Cities for Daycare in Massachusetts
View all cities →Massachusetts Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits
Massachusetts families can apply for EEC Child Care Financial Assistance 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: (617) 988-6600
Program Types in Massachusetts
Recently Verified Centers
View all 9,050 →Wesley Education Center
Dorchester
Gertrude E. Townsend Dorchester Headstart
Dorchester
Boys and Girls Clubs Of Dorchester
Dorchester
Crispus Attucks Children's Center
Dorchester
Ashmont Nursery School
Boston
South Side Head Start II
Hyde Park
Shattuck Child Care Center
Jamaica Plain
Nurtury Learning Lab
Jamaica Plain
South Side Head Start
Roslindale
Nurtury Inc. @ Horadan Way
Roxbury
South Boston H.S./EHS @ Old Colony
South Boston
South Boston Neighborhood House Preschool
South Boston
Daycare in Massachusetts — Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know a daycare in Massachusetts is licensed?
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Massachusetts?
How much does daycare cost in Massachusetts?
Are subsidies available for childcare in Massachusetts?
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Massachusetts daycare?
Search 9,050 Licensed Massachusetts Centers
Free, no signup, filter by age and subsidy acceptance.