THE EVERETT ADVOCATE – FRiDAy, MARCH 14, 2025 Page 5 NEW SURVEY: Including Mass., it now costs more for child care than public college tuition in 38 states; Child care surpasses average rent costs in 17 states Massachusetts has highest annual cost child care in the nation, over $20,000 per child; College tuition here just over $15,000 on average 8 Norwood St. Everett (617) 387-9810 Open Tues. - Sat. at 4:00 PM Closed Sun. & Mon. Announcing our Classic Specials Dine In Only: * FREE Salad with purchase of Entree, Tuesdays & Wednesdays * Cheese Pizza - Only $10 DAYCARE— Daycare is essential for working families and many are struggling between these and other ever-increasing bills. (Courtesy Photo) By Steve Freker P arents who rely on daycare for their children are well aware of the “sticker shock” in store for them when paying the bills. For a number of years, it has been confirmed that Massachusetts leads the nation in average annual and monthly child daycare cost, right around $20,000 — even more for infant care. According to a new report released last week by Tootris News and Education Center, the high cost of Child Care in Massachusetts can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons is the high cost of living in the state. Other factors include high housing costs, along with other essential expenses like food and transportation, which all remain quite high. In an eye-opening report also released in the past week, the cost of child care now exceeds the price of college tuition in 38 states and the District of Columbia, according to a new analysis conducted by the Economic Policy Institute (EPI). The Washington, D.C.-based policy group used 2023 federal and nonprofit data to compare the monthly cost of infant child care to that of tuition at public colleges. The total number increased by five more states since the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic began. The analysis also found child care costs have exceeded rent prices in 17 states and the District of Columbia. NEW SURVEY | SEE PAGE 22 Catch ALL The Live Sports Action On Our Large Screen TV’s Scan & Follow Us on Facebook! www.810bargrille.com
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