Childcare costs vary significantly by municipality. This has direct consequences for what parents spend on care each month, even though they are entitled to childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag) in all cases.
How do these differences arise?
The Dutch childcare system operates with a maximum hourly rate set by the government. For 2026, this maximum is €11.23 per hour for daycare and €9.98 per hour for after-school care (BSO). Childcare organizations are free to set their own rates, which may exceed this maximum. Parents always pay the portion above the maximum entirely out of pocket.
The level of the hourly rate is influenced by various factors:
- Staff costs: In areas with a tight labor market or higher wages, costs are higher
- Housing: Real estate prices in urban areas drive rates up
- Municipal policy: Some municipalities provide extra subsidies for childcare, others less so
- Competition: In areas with more supply, rates may be lower
Consequences for the system
The wide variation in rates raises questions about the fairness of the current system. Parents in municipalities with higher rates still pay more out of pocket after benefit than parents in cheaper municipalities. This can lead to unequal opportunities: care becomes less accessible for some families, while work and childcare should be feasible for all parents.
Additionally, a tension arises with the national childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag). This is calculated uniformly, but actual costs vary by region. The result is that net costs for parents are not the same everywhere.
What does this mean for parents?
For parents, it is important to be aware of these differences, especially when moving or choosing a childcare location. Practical points to consider:
- Compare rates: Ask multiple providers in your region about their hourly rate; even within the same municipality this can vary
- Check your benefit: Calculate your exact net costs via the Tax Administration (Belastingdienst) based on the actual rate
- Watch the maximum: If a provider charges above the legal maximum, you receive no benefit on the excess amount
- Look into municipal schemes: Some municipalities offer additional subsidies or allowances for specific target groups
- Also consider opening hours: Opening hours have more impact on your final bill than you might expect
Want to read more about childcare benefit (kinderopvangtoeslag) and how it works? Check out our blogs!