Florida early learning reference

Florida child care statistics: 2025 facts for families.

A clear, sourced snapshot of the numbers shaping early learning and child care across Florida.

Last updated September 28, 2026

Families, educators, and local writers deserve straightforward information they can check for themselves. These figures bring together the latest available statewide data on young children, language, VPK, School Readiness, provider availability, and the cost of care. Each statistic links to its original source.

4.9%

of Floridians are under age five

Florida’s July 1, 2025 population estimate was 23,462,518. The share of residents under age five was 4.9%.

U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts, 2025

210,786

School Readiness enrollments

Florida recorded 210,786 School Readiness enrollments in fiscal year 2024 to 2025, supporting eligible families with access to early education and care.

Florida Department of Education, 2024 to 2025

10,232

providers in Florida’s referral directory

Florida’s early learning coalitions maintained a directory of 10,232 legally operating child care providers in fiscal year 2024 to 2025.

Florida Department of Education, 2024 to 2025

$11,201

average annual center-based infant care price

Florida’s reported average annual price for full-time center-based infant care was $11,201 in the 2024 affordability analysis. Florida’s figure came from its most recent market-rate survey.

Child Care Aware of America, 2024

What these figures mean locally

Choosing care is personal. The need for clear information is shared.

Statewide data can help families frame their questions, but the right program comes down to the child in front of you. At Kids Now Academy, families can explore a warm, inclusive Orlando environment for children from eight weeks through school age, and keep their child’s wider support team close to daily learning.

Florida Child Care License #C09OR0565

Schedule a Tour

Methodology and sources

How to use this page.

Every statistic is taken directly from the linked publisher and includes the most recent period available on that source at the time of this update. “Enrollment” and “provider” counts use each program’s own reporting definitions, so they should not be combined as if they measure the same thing.