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Countries with the Highest Cost of Childcare (2026 Ranked)
New Zealand and the US top the OECD childcare cost rankings, with net childcare expenses consuming 30–32% of an average couple's earnings. In Germany, the same costs amount to 1% of earnings. Denmark's 97% childcare enrollment and heavily subsidised system is the benchmark other countries reference. Childcare affordability is one of the least-discussed drivers of the gender pay gap, female workforce participation, and birth rates.