Education and Childcare Administrators, Preschool and Daycare: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 71,620 education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares, and they earn a median of $56,270/year. The range runs from $37K to $96K. New York pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares start around $37K. The gap between that and the median ($56K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $96K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| New York | $80K | 3,810 |
| District of Columbia | $76K | 380 |
| Massachusetts | $69K | 2,230 |
| New Mexico | $68K | 370 |
| New Jersey | $66K | 2,820 |
| California | $65K | 8,290 |
| Washington | $64K | 1,580 |
| Delaware | $64K | 390 |
| Hawaii | $63K | 270 |
| Nebraska | $62K | 500 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare make?▼
The median education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare salary in the United States is $56,270 per year ($27/hour). Entry-level positions start around $37,060, while experienced professionals earn up to $96,400.
What education do you need to become a education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycare?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares.
What are the highest paying states for education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares?▼
The highest paying states for education and childcare administrators, preschool and daycares are New York ($79,660), District of Columbia ($76,270), Massachusetts ($68,660), New Mexico ($67,780), New Jersey ($66,360). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.