Home-Based Preschool Program
Run a small, licensed play-based preschool from your home for a handful of local families.
- $1.5k-8k
- Part-time
- From home
- Licence or permit needed
Estimates for a small start in the US, not guarantees.
Official data
82,162 US businesses with employees in this field, +2.5% in a year
NAICS 624410 “Child day care services”. Source: U.S. Census Bureau, County Business Patterns 2023.
What it is
A small preschool group in your own home, with a daily routine of play, stories, songs, early math and language, and outdoor time. Most states have a licensing category for small home-based child care, so check which one fits.
Your first three steps
- Contact your state child care licensing agency and ask what is needed for a small home-based program
- Check your zoning, lease or HOA rules, and book required CPR, first aid and background checks
- Set up a safe play space, set your tuition by comparing local programs, and tell neighbors and local parent groups about your openings
Who pays
Parents of children roughly 2 to 5 years old, plus in some states families using child care subsidies if you are approved to accept them.
How it makes money
Monthly or weekly tuition per child, often with a registration fee. Income depends on how many children your license allows and your local rates.
Skills that help
- Patience and warmth with young children
- Planning simple learning activities
- Clear, professional communication with parents
Watch out for
- State or county licensing rules, including capacity limits, child-to-adult ratios and home inspections
- Home occupation permits, zoning, HOA or landlord rules
- General liability insurance suited to child care, and workers' compensation once you hire help
- Safety requirements such as fencing, smoke alarms, safe sleep and food handling, which vary by state
- Very demanding hours and little time off, so plan backup cover
🔒 Full research report for US
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a home preschool?
Startup costs are typically estimated at around $1,500 to $8,000, depending on your home setup, safety equipment, learning materials and insurance. Safety requirements such as fencing and smoke alarms vary by state.
How much can a home preschool earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $2,500 to $9,000, depending on how many children you can enrol under your license and your fees. Hours are demanding, with little time off.
Do I need a license to run a preschool from home?
Check your state or county licensing rules, including capacity limits, child-to-adult ratios and home inspections. Also check home occupation permits, zoning, HOA or landlord rules, safety requirements and insurance suited to child care.
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Photo: ponce_photography on Pixabay