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Licensed Daycare in Michigan

Search 3,900 verified daycare and childcare centers across Michigan, sourced directly from Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing . Filter by age group, program type, and subsidy acceptance — no signup.

3,900
Licensed Centers
$970/mo
Avg Infant Care
$720/mo
Avg Preschool
1:4
Infant Ratio

Michigan Childcare Licensing

In Michigan, all child care centers serving children outside the family home are required to be licensed by the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing. Licensed centers undergo background checks, capacity inspections, and routine compliance reviews.

Minimum staff-to-child ratios are 1:4 for infants under 12 months, 1:4 for toddlers (12–35 months), and 1:10 for preschool (3–5 years). NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below the state minimum.

Verify a license at Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing

Quick licensing facts

Regulator
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing
Infant ratio
1:4
Toddler ratio
1:4
Preschool ratio
1:10
Avg infant cost
$970/mo
Avg preschool cost
$720/mo
Financial help

Michigan Childcare Subsidies & Tax Credits

Michigan families can apply for Child Development and Care (CDC) Program based on income and work/school status. Federal programs — the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, Dependent Care FSA ($5,000 cap), and Head Start — stack on top of state assistance.

Local intake line: (866) 990-3227

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Daycare in Michigan — Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know a daycare in Michigan is licensed?
Every center listed here is verified against the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing database. Look for the 'Licensed' badge on each profile. You can also confirm directly via the agency's lookup tool at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/cclb/look-for-childcare.
What is the staff-to-child ratio in Michigan?
State minimums in Michigan are roughly 1:4 infants, 1:4 toddlers, and 1:10 preschool. NAEYC-accredited centers typically operate below these ceilings.
How much does daycare cost in Michigan?
Full-time infant care averages about $970/month; preschool runs around $720/month. Costs vary by city — large metros like Detroit trend higher than rural areas.
Are subsidies available for childcare in Michigan?
Yes. The primary state program is Child Development and Care (CDC) Program, reachable at (866) 990-3227. Federal options like Head Start, the Child & Dependent Care Tax Credit, and Dependent Care FSA also apply. See our subsidies guide for eligibility rules.
How do I report unsafe conditions at a Michigan daycare?
File a complaint with the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) — Child Care Licensing via their website. Inspections are public record; severe violations result in license suspension.

Search 3,900 Licensed Michigan Centers

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