children playing

Measuring affordability of child care

Printer-friendly versionSend by emailPDF version
Author: 
Cleveland, G.
Format: 
Fact sheet
Publication Date: 
20 Feb 2022

Summary:

This analysis examines Alberta's recent child care funding changes, both effects on affordability and in comparison to the $10/a day fee which is the cross-Canada goal. Using Calgary data, it shows that under Alberta's new funding scheme, for a low income family with two children, parent fees now consume almost 50% of net family income. Families at all incomes pay more under the Alberta scheme than under a $10/day fee. But it is for low income families that the difference between the two options is greatest; with a flat $10/day fee, child care would consume 20% of net family income rather than close to 50%.

A graphic representation illustrating Cleveland's affordability research.

Region: