How Much Is Nursery per Day?

Choosing a nursery for your child involves many important decisions, and cost is often at the top of the list for parents. In recent years, the government has recognised the need for more affordable childcare; part-time nursery costs for a child under two in 2025 have reduced by 56% in England, compared to 2024.

This article will break down the average cost of nursery per day, highlight the difference between full-time and part-time childcare, and explain what government-funded support may be available to help reduce costs for eligible families.

How Much Does Part-Time Nursery Cost in the UK?

A part-time nursery place accounts for 25 hours of childcare a week. Back in 2024, average nursery costs for those under 2 years old were £159.61. The costs were reviewed for 2025 and swiftly reduced to £70.51 a week in England, thanks to government-funded childcare hours. Similarly, in 2024, the price for a part-time place for 2-year-old children stood at £153.69 per week; this has come down to £66.34 a week in 2025. 

In England, parents who are not working, or whose income is too low to qualify for funded hours (explained later), will pay £105 more per week for a part-time nursery place for a child under two, and £100 more for a two-year-old, compared to eligible families.

* Prices from the Coram Childcare Study 2025

How Much Does Full-Time Nursery Cost in the UK?

A full-time nursery place involves 50 hours of childcare a week. In 2025, the average cost of a full-time nursery place for a child under two in England is £238.95 per week, down from £305.11 in 2024; this averages £12,425 a year, including 15 funded hours. For a two-year-old, the average weekly cost is £225.70 in 2025 (£11,736 per year), a decrease from £290.77 in 2024. 

If you’re wondering how these costs look per day in England, on average, you’ll be paying around £48 a day, taking into account the 15 hours of government-funded childcare.

* Prices from the Coram Childcare Study 2025

How Much Does Nursery Cost in London?

Nurseries in London face significantly higher operating costs than the rest of the UK, and these are reflected in the price of a nursery place. Let’s take a look at how much full-time nursery costs on average in London and its outer areas, including South Croydon. 

* Prices from the Coram Childcare Study 2025

Is It Possible to Access Free Childcare?

All three and four-year-olds in England are entitled to 570 hours of free childcare per year, taken as 15 hours per week for 38 weeks or 11 hours per week for 51 weeks, regardless of parental income or employment status. 

In a bid to make childcare more affordable, more positive changes are coming for childcare costs in England, starting September 2025; all eligible working parents with children aged 9 months to four years will be entitled to 30 hours of free childcare per week instead of 15 hours, available for 38 weeks each year. 

Additionally, two-year-olds in families receiving certain benefits or with specific needs qualify for 15 hours of free childcare over 38 weeks, or 11 hours over 51 weeks, helping reduce childcare costs for lower-income households. Please read our dedicated article to explore the qualifying benefits or specific needs. 

Is a Nursery Cheaper Than a Childminder?

Childminders often charge lower hourly or daily rates and offer smaller group sizes, making them a budget-friendly option for families. Since childminders usually work in their own home, they pay lower operating expenses compared to nurseries, reducing the price of the service. 

However, although childminders can be particularly useful for parents with unusual working patterns, nurseries deliver a more structured educational programme led by qualified practitioners who follow the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, ensuring consistent learning and development standards across seven key areas. 

How Much Does a Childminder Cost?

The government-funded childcare hours can be used for childminders, and aren’t just for nurseries. Take a look at the table below to see the average costs of a childminder per week. Please note that this will vary depending on where you live and whether you receive funded childcare hours.  

* Prices from the Coram Childcare Study 2025

Do Nurseries Offer Discounts for Siblings?

This depends on each nursery’s policies, since every childcare setting is different. For example, at Abbey Wood Grange, we offer a 5% sibling discount on the eldest child's fees when not in receipt of any early years funding. For more information about this, please contact us. 

How to Choose the Right Nursery for You

Every parent will agree that choosing the right nursery is a big decision, and naturally, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. To help your decision, take a look at the following tips:

• Understand Fee Structures: Nurseries may charge by the hour, day, or week; check for registration fees or deposits that can add to your overall costs.
• Explore Government Funding: Research eligibility for 15 or 30-hour free childcare and tax-free childcare accounts, which could help you save money during the term. 
• Compare Cost per Hour: Divide the total fees by the number of care hours to get an accurate comparison between nurseries that offer different session lengths.
• Check What’s Included: Some nurseries offer all-inclusive pricing, bundling meals, nappies, and other costs into their fees, whilst others charge these separately. 
• Ask About Sibling Discounts: Some nurseries offer reduced rates when you enrol multiple children, so be sure to enquire about this.
• Factor in Extra Costs: Don’t forget to budget for other expenses such as uniforms (if applicable), school trips, and any optional extras like sports clubs.

Download Our Fees and Brochure for More Information

At Abbey Wood Grange, we offer exceptional childcare for children in Kenley and the surrounding areas, reflected in our “GOOD” rating by OFSTED. We currently accept children in receipt of 15 or 30 hours of free childcare, subject to classroom availability. 

To learn more about our fees or to explore our nursery brochure, please get in touch with us today. Similarly, we’re here to answer any questions you may have; we understand the importance of getting the full picture when choosing a nursery!

CONTACT US