Date: 14 March 2024

A recent study conducted by Under 3 DC has shed light on the substantial economic costs associated with the lack of high-quality child care in Washington D.C., affecting parents, businesses, and taxpayers alike.

The comprehensive analysis reveals that parents in D.C. face over $250 million in annual costs due to inadequate child care options. This shortfall not only impacts families but also leads to nearly $80 million in losses for local businesses and an additional $64 million burden on taxpayers each year. The findings underscore the critical need for investment in accessible, affordable, and high-quality child care services to support the city’s workforce and foster economic growth.

The study’s insights emphasize the importance of addressing child care quality and availability in D.C. to mitigate financial losses and enhance the well-being of families and the broader community.