$25.51/hour
As of March 2026, the average starting cost of child care providers in Santa Monica, CA is $25.51 per hour. The weekly rate for child care providers in Santa Monica, CA is $1,020 for working a 40-hour week. And the monthly cost is approximately $3,316 for 130 hours of work.
Data is based on rates reported by service providers listed on Care.com. Last updated in March 2026.
The cost of hiring child care providers in Santa Monica, CA is approximately 7% higher than California average starting rate of $23.87 per hour and 26% higher than the national average of $20.27.
Location | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Monica, CA | $25.51/hr | $32.64/hr |
California | $23.87/hr | $30.09/hr |
United States | $20.27/hr | $26.93/hr |
$25.51
$32.64
Santa Monica, CA
$23.87
$30.09
California
$20.27
$26.93
US
Starting rate (avg)
Max rate (avg)
In some cases, nearby cities may offer more affordable child care services. When evaluating child care pay rates in Santa Monica, CA and its surrounding areas, it is essential to follow the minimum wage regulations and understand the proper way to pay legally. There are multiple benefits of paying legally that should be considered, such as tax deductions and fostering a professional employment relationship.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Fe Springs, CA | $19.17/hr | $28.17/hr |
| Huntington Park, CA | $20.20/hr | $29.90/hr |
| Pico Rivera, CA | $21.19/hr | $29.26/hr |
| Newhall, CA | $21.38/hr | $29.67/hr |
| Norwalk, CA | $21.48/hr | $27.51/hr |
You may pay more per hour for child care providers near Santa Monica, CA and several factors can contribute to driving up the average rates. They include: higher cost of living, increased demand for child care services, a more competitive job market, and specific details surrounding your care needs (i.e. tasks, timeframe, frequency). As a result, it's important to consider these local factors when comparing child care rates and hiring child care providers near Santa Monica, CA.
City | Starting rate (avg) | Max rate (avg) |
|---|---|---|
| Playa del Rey, CA | $28.00/hr | $34.11/hr |
| Montrose, CA | $27.65/hr | $33.71/hr |
| Studio City, CA | $27.58/hr | $32.76/hr |
| Marina del Rey, CA | $27.17/hr | $32.38/hr |
| West Hollywood, CA | $26.92/hr | $33.57/hr |
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