Child care costs in Quebec (2026)
Rules verified against official sources on 2026-07-05. Figures below are computed by the same engine as our cost calculator.
Quebec's subsidized (reduced-contribution) spaces cost a flat $9.65 per day in 2026 — indexed each January 1 — at CPEs, subsidized garderies, and recognized home child care, with no income test. Recipients of social assistance and certain other programs pay nothing, subject to conditions.
For non-subsidized care, Quebec's refundable tax credit covers 67% to 78% of eligible expenses depending on family income (78% up to $25,305; 67% above $122,290 — 2026 table), and can be received as monthly advance payments. The 2026 annual expense caps are $12,525 per child under 7 and $6,305 for other eligible children (now under 14, a 2026 change), or $17,145 for a child with a severe impairment.
What full-time care typically costs in Quebec
Monthly figures at a typical (median) provider fee, full-time centre care, before any income-tested subsidy. Universal programs (fee caps, automatic reductions) are applied; income-tested help can lower these further.
| Age group | Typical provider fee | What parents pay | Applied program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infant | $1,050/mo | $209.08/mo | Quebec reduced contribution ($9.65/day, 2026) |
| Toddler | $980/mo | $209.08/mo | Quebec reduced contribution ($9.65/day, 2026) |
| Preschool | $980/mo | $209.08/mo | Quebec reduced contribution ($9.65/day, 2026) |
Typical fees are market medians; your provider's fee may differ. Use the calculator for your own income and situation.
Common questions
How much is subsidized daycare in Quebec in 2026?
$9.65 per day flat at subsidized CPEs, garderies, and recognized home child care — about $209/month full-time. The rate is indexed every January 1 and there is no income test.
What if I can't get a subsidized space in Quebec?
Non-subsidized care qualifies for Quebec's refundable tax credit of 67–78% of eligible expenses depending on family income, with a $12,525 annual cap per child under 7 in 2026. It can be paid out monthly in advance, and the net cost often lands close to the subsidized rate.
Official sources
- https://www.quebec.ca/en/family-and-support-for-individuals/childhood/childcare-centres/costs
- https://www.revenuquebec.ca/en/citizens/tax-credits/tax-credit-for-childcare-expenses/advance-payments/rates-for-the-tax-credit-for-childcare-expenses-for-2026/
Estimate your own cost in Quebec
The MapleCub calculator applies these rules to your income, hours, and child's age — including income-tested subsidies not shown in the table above.
Open the cost calculator →