How much should I pay for day care for a 4-year-old?

According to Working Mother, in 2012, the average cost for a 4-year-old in a day care center ranged from $3,900 to $11,700 per year. Location and the type of care directly impact the rate.

Working Mother states that a report from Child Care Aware of America reviewed 36 states, and child care exceeded in-state tuition for college. This was based on an infant attending an actual day care center. The average cost for a 4-year-old exceeded public college expenses in 19 states and the District of Columbia.

The annual rate for a 4-year-old increased by 4 percent in 2011. This was for home-based care. The rates are projected to increase more, notes Working Mother.