Childcare costs in Inner London
The Inner London boroughs operate in one of the highest-cost childcare markets in the UK, with funded rates uplifted to reflect premises and staffing costs but private top-ups still common. Compare 2026/27 LA funded rates across 13 local authorities in Inner London. Select a rate to calculate your exact monthly fees after government support is applied.
Average Rate
£13.00/hr
Authorities
13
Children Under 5
210,000
Regional Initiatives
- Mayor of London early years pilot funding for two-year-olds in deprived wards
- Borough-level multilingual childcare support across diverse communities
Parent Tips
- Compare borough-funded rates carefully, as Inner London variation between boroughs can exceed £2/hr
- Check whether your nursery itemises consumables and meals separately from the hourly rate
Show all 13 local authorities in Inner London
Frequently asked questions about Inner London childcare costs
›Why are Inner London funded rates so much higher than other regions?
Inner London receives the largest Area Cost Adjustment uplift in the country to reflect higher rents, staffing salaries, and food costs faced by providers operating in central boroughs.
›Will the funded rate cover my whole nursery bill in Inner London?
Rarely. Most Inner London nurseries charge above the funded rate, so parents typically pay top-ups for hours used or for additional consumables, meals, and trips not covered by the entitlement.