Childcare costs in North East
Covering County Durham, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and Tees Valley, the North East combines former industrial communities with growing service economies and some of the lowest childcare cost benchmarks in England. Compare 2026/27 LA funded rates across 12 local authorities in North East. Select a rate to calculate your exact monthly fees after government support is applied.
Average Rate
£6.50/hr
Authorities
12
Children Under 5
185,000
Regional Initiatives
- North East childcare investment fund targeting disadvantaged communities
- Family hubs offering wraparound and stay-and-play services across Tees Valley
Parent Tips
- Check community centre wraparound care, often cheaper than standalone nurseries
- Several authorities provide transport assistance for rural Northumberland families
Show all 12 local authorities in North East
Frequently asked questions about North East childcare costs
›Why are North East funded rates lower than southern regions?
DfE rates reflect typical local costs, so the North East's lower wage and premises base feeds through to a lower funded hourly rate. This usually means the funded rate covers a higher proportion of the actual bill.
›Where can I get help finding a funded place in the North East?
Local family hubs and the early years team at your council can confirm vacancies, and the FIS (Family Information Service) for your authority maintains a list of registered providers.