Skip to content
AffordMap
Personal Care · New Jersey

How to Become a Childcare Workers in New Jersey

Childcare Workers in New Jersey earn a median salary of $34,290/year, which is 7% above the national average. New Jersey has a state income tax of ~1.5%. After taxes and rent, a childcare workers takes home approximately $1,010/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$34K
Median salary in New Jersey
+7%
vs. national average
1.5%
State income tax
23,680
Employed in New Jersey

What a childcare workers can afford in New Jersey

Gross annual salary$34,290
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 1.5% state tax)$2,422/mo
Median 2BR rent (New Jersey)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home58.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$34,290/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,010/mo

Becoming a childcare workers in New Jersey

1

Meet education requirements

Childcare Workers positions in New Jersey typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across New Jersey. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many childcare workers positions in New Jersey require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain New Jersey licensure or certification

New Jersey may require specific licensing or professional certification for childcare workerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the New Jersey Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in New Jersey

New Jersey employs 23,680 childcare workers. The highest concentrations are in Trenton-Princeton and Atlantic City-Hammonton.

Childcare Workers salary by metro area in New Jersey

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Trenton-Princeton$35K$16.6/hr990
Atlantic City-Hammonton$33K$16.02/hr500
Vineland$32K$15.38/hr480

Childcare Workers salary range in New Jersey

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$31K
Median (50th)
$34K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$43K
View jobs for Childcare Workers
Currently hiring in New Jersey
View →
More openings for Childcare Workers
Currently hiring in New Jersey
View →
Advance your nursing career
Online BSN and MSN programs — 45% off select certificates
View →
Full childcare workers salary breakdown in New Jersey
Percentiles, trends, and comparisons
View →
Calculate take-home pay in New Jersey
After federal + 1.5% state tax
Calculate →
Compare New Jersey cost of living to other states
See where your salary goes further
Compare →

Childcare Workers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a childcare workers make in New Jersey?

The median childcare workers salary in New Jersey is $34,290 per year ($16.49/hr). This is 7% above the national median of $32,050. Salaries range from $31,470 to $43,370.

What are the requirements to become a childcare workers in New Jersey?

Childcare Workers positions in New Jersey typically require High school diploma or equivalent. New Jersey may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the New Jersey licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a childcare workers afford to live in New Jersey?

At the median salary of $34,290, a childcare workers in New Jersey would take home approximately $2,422/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 58.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for childcare workers in New Jersey?

The highest paying metro areas for childcare workers in New Jersey are Trenton-Princeton ($34,520), Atlantic City-Hammonton ($33,320), Vineland ($31,980). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does New Jersey have state income tax for childcare workers?

Yes, New Jersey has a state income tax rate of approximately 1.5%. On a $34,290 salary, this means roughly $530/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.