Childcare in Pasadena, CA
Pasadena offers one of the most diverse and high-quality childcare landscapes in LA County. From Old Town to the Caltech corridor, families have access to accredited preschools, licensed family homes, and bilingual programs. Demand is high — especially for infant care — so applying early is strongly recommended.
All providers listed on Childcare Searcher LA are verified against California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division (CDSS CCLD) records. Every listing is state-licensed — so you can search with confidence.
ZIP Codes Covered
Average Childcare Cost in Pasadena
Costs vary by provider type, hours, and program. Family daycare homes are typically 20–30% less expensive than licensed centers. The figures below reflect full-time care estimates for Pasadena based on 2025–2026 LA County data.
Sources: CA Child Care R&R Network (2025), Brightwheel, PPIC. Actual rates vary by provider.
What to Know About Childcare in Pasadena
- High concentration of accredited preschool programs
- Several providers near Caltech and Huntington Hospital for working parents
- Strong Montessori community in Old Town and surroundings
- Many programs offer extended hours for working families
Tuition Assistance for Pasadena Families
Many families in Pasadena qualify for free or subsidized childcare through state and federal programs. Your regional agency can help you apply at no cost.
Your Regional Agency: Child Care Resource Center (CCRC)
Serves Pasadena and surrounding communities. Free application support for CalWORKs Child Care, the Child Care and Development Fund (CCDF), and other programs.
Apply for Assistance ↗ 📞 (818) 717-1000Programs Available
- CalWORKs Child Care (Stages 1–3) — for families receiving or transitioning off cash aid
- Child Care & Development Fund (CCDF) — for working families below 85% of State Median Income
- California State Preschool (CSPP) — free preschool for income-eligible 3–4 year olds through Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD)
- Head Start / Early Head Start — comprehensive free program for income-eligible children 0–5
- 211 LA — call or text 211 anytime for a full list of available programs
Not sure if you qualify? Use our free Tuition Assistance Screener — 6 questions, results in under 2 minutes, nothing stored.
School District & TK/Kindergarten
Most of Pasadena is served by Pasadena Unified School District (PUSD). If you're planning ahead for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) or Kindergarten, look for childcare providers near your assigned elementary school or that specifically offer school-readiness programs.
California's Universal PreKindergarten (UPK) expansion means all 4-year-olds are eligible for free TK through their local district — this can significantly reduce your childcare costs when your child turns 4.
Nearby Neighborhoods
Also searching nearby? Browse childcare in neighboring communities: