APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) A recent study finds Wisconsin ranks as one of the least affordable states in the nation when it comes to child care. Experts say parents pay upward of $10,000 a year to send one infant to daycare. And they're spending nearly 11% of their income to do so. The financial strains are even tighter for single parent households, who can spend up to half of their income on child care.
Still, some parents say it's money well spent. "We're asking someone else to care for our children when we're not present. It's one of the best ways you can spend your dollars," says parent Misty Pickett.
Providers are also spending a lot - one reason costs may be so high. Local experts say most have to enroll 85 children in order to make a profit. And they're spending most of their operating costs on salaries, transportation, food and supplies.
