Are you planning to move to Hawaii or already raising a family on the islands? Then you know the dream comes with a price—especially when it comes to childcare. In this episode of the Living in Hawaii Show, local moms from Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island break down exactly what you need to expect in terms of daycare costs, availability, cultural norms, and clever financial survival tips.

Why Childcare in Hawaii Is a Financial Challenge

Childcare in Hawaii is among the most expensive in the U.S.—ranging from $1,000 to $1,800+ per child, per month. Whether you’re considering daycare, preschool, or hiring a nanny, be prepared for costs that exceed the national average by 20–30%.

What’s behind the high prices? Limited availability, increased demand, and the cost of living in paradise all play a part.

Island-by-Island Experiences from Local Moms

In the video, three incredible mothers—Danielle (Maui), Misty (Big Island), and Sasha (Oahu)—share how they’ve navigated childcare expenses with large families. From wearing infants while running businesses to organizing childcare co-ops with ohana (family), their stories are real, raw, and incredibly helpful.

You’ll hear how one mom wore her baby in a carrier while cleaning condos to save on daycare. Another opened her own licensed home daycare to cut costs while staying close to her kids.

Licensed vs. Unlicensed Care – What’s the Difference?

Licensing isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s peace of mind. The video dives into the legal and practical differences between licensed and unlicensed childcare providers, including background checks, safety training, and more. But as the moms share, in Hawaii, word-of-mouth is everything.

Many families rely on trusted, unlicensed caregivers within their communities to get by—because when you live in Hawaii, ohana is your safety net.

Financial Aid, Hidden Costs & Money-Saving Hacks

Programs like PATCH and Open Doors offer financial assistance, but eligibility and availability can be limited. Expect extra fees for late pick-ups, snacks, diapers, and even field trips. One mom revealed her family spends nearly $1,000 per week on groceries alone!

Looking to save? Consider working from home, sharing babysitting with trusted friends, or using Facebook mom groups for resources and referrals.

Cultural & Educational Enrichment in Hawaii’s Childcare

Beyond just babysitting, many childcare programs in Hawaii incorporate Hawaiian culture, language, and sustainability. Some preschools even teach keiki (children) to grow their own food and practice farm-to-table living—a perfect fit for the island lifestyle.

Final Thoughts – Plan Ahead, Trust Carefully

Choosing childcare in Hawaii isn’t just about the price—it’s about community, trust, and creativity. As the video emphasizes, your childcare provider is part of your family. Do your research, ask for referrals, and plan early—some waitlists fill up before babies are even born!

Watch the full video above to hear directly from local parents who’ve made it work—and learn their powerful tips for thriving as a family in Hawaii.

 

 

More of our most recent posts: