Licensed Daycare in Des Moines, Iowa
9 licensed daycares in Des Moines, verified weekly. Compare cost, age groups, and Head Start spots in your ZIP — directly from official Iowa licensing records.
Childcare costs in Des Moines
ChildCare Aware reports the Iowa average full-time cost at $910/month for infant care and $720/month for preschool. City-level prices in Des Moines vary by ZIP code and program model — Head Start sites are free for eligible families, family daycare homes typically run 10-30% below center rates, and accredited centers run above the average.
The Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit and a Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 max) reduce effective cost regardless of program. Iowa families may also qualify for Iowa Child Care Assistance (CCA) (intake: (800) 972-2017).
Full Iowa licensing & cost overviewQuick facts
- State regulator
- Iowa Department of Health and Human Services — Child Care Bureau
- Infant ratio
- 1:4
- Toddler ratio
- 1:6
- Preschool ratio
- 1:12
- Avg capacity
- 82 kids
All Des Moines licensed centers
Page 1 of 1Cedar Rapids Bright Futures Daycare #24
Des Moines
Growing Minds Cedar Rapids #32
Des Moines
Tap any card to view the full listing including the state license number, capacity, and inspection history when available.
Parent-asked basics on licensing, ratios, and waitlist timing for this area.
How many licensed daycare centers are in Des Moines, Iowa?
What's the average daycare cost in Des Moines?
What staff-to-child ratios apply in Des Moines daycares?
Are subsidies available for daycare in Des Moines?
How do I verify a Des Moines daycare's license?
Search 9 Licensed Centers in Des Moines
Free, no signup, verified directly with Iowa Department of Health and Human Services — Child Care Bureau.