UConn survey finds childcare unaffordable for over half of Connecticut families

A new study from the University of Connecticut found 53% of families say childcare is unaffordable.  

The survey, done in partnership with the Office of Early Childhood, found 30% of families are either on a waitlist or can’t find care providers in their area.  

Connecticut is preparing to make big investments in childcare, including offering free childcare starting in 2027 for families earning less than $100,000.  

Lawmakers and Gov. Ned Lamont (D) agreed to create an endowment to fund the massive expansion.  

The plan is to use the endowment, which now has more than $700 million, to subsidize childcare so families earning above $100,000 pay no more than 7% of their income.  

UConn’s survey found families all over the state are struggling to find care. Researchers also found the hurdles vary by family.  

“We saw concerns about affordability, availability and finding care that actually meets families’ needs statewide,” UConn professor Sam Lawrence said.  

The survey found the Northeast Corner has the biggest need, with 77% of families struggling to find care.  

Lawrence said researchers are now working with the OEC to dig through the results and determine needs on a town-by-town basis.  

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