Children at daycare

425 Daycare Centers in San Diego, California

Browse all 425 daycare centers in San Diego, California. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in San Diego

Ranked using a weighted score that combines Google rating with the number of parent reviews — daycares with more reviews rank higher than those with a high rating but few reviews. Last updated: March 2026.

  1. 1

    4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 14 children

    Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

    Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe
  2. 2
    Little Angels Academy
    4.8 score
    5(20)

    3078 L Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 72 children

    Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

    Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlerseducational activities (art
  3. 3

    4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 137 children

    Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

    Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approachpotty training success
  4. 4

    12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 49 children

    Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

    Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to studentsflexible class scheduling with unlimited monthly classes
  5. 5

    3743 Front Street, San Diego, CA · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 95 children

    Parents consistently praise Fleur de Lis as an exceptional preschool that fosters individual growth, confidence, and a love of learning through a dedicated, play-based curriculum. Staff members are described as caring, professional, and genuinely invested in each child's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The beautiful natural setting, diverse and welcoming community, and strong preparation for kindergarten are frequently highlighted.

    Individualized attention to each childwarm and caring staffdedicated curriculumbeautiful canyon setting with playgrounds
  6. 6

    1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 60 children

    Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

  7. 7

    9855 Erma Road Ste. 128, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 36 children

    Parents consistently praise Scripps Exploring Academy for exceptional childcare with attentive, caring staff who genuinely bond with children. Families report their children are happy, well-prepared for kindergarten, and experience smooth transitions. The facility is described as clean, welcoming, and homey with strong parent communication.

    Caring and attentive teachershappy childrensmooth transition to kindergartenacademic preparation (reading and writing)
  8. 8

    5075 Ruffin Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 90 children

    Chinese Bilingual Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its bilingual Mandarin-English curriculum, caring and patient teachers, and strong sense of community. Parents highlight the school's commitment to child development, flexible scheduling, and on-site prepared meals. Children show advanced academic preparation and develop lasting friendships.

    Bilingual Mandarin-English immersioncaring and patient teacherson-site fresh meals (breakfastlunch
  9. 9
    Wee Wisdom Preschool
    4.72 score
    5(13)

    8999 Activity Road, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 50 children

    Wee Wisdom Preschool receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, knowledgeable staff, clean facility, and developmentally appropriate curriculum. Parents highlight strong teacher-child relationships, innovative teaching methods including yoga and meditation, and children's enthusiasm for attending school.

    Caring and knowledgeable staffclean and well-organized facilityindividualized attention to each childdevelopmentally appropriate activities
  10. 10
    Al-Rribat Academy
    4.72 score
    4.9(20)

    7183-A Saranac Street, San Diego, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 23 children

    AL-RRIBAT Academy appears to be an Islamic center (masjid) rather than a daycare facility. Reviews praise it as a welcoming community space with clean facilities, active programming including classes and events, and knowledgeable religious leadership. Parents describe feeling a strong sense of belonging and community support.

    Clean facilitieswelcoming and friendly communityactive programming (classeslectures

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in San Diego based on parent reviews

Montessori Child Development LLC

5(20)

4754 Sea Tern Court, San Diego, CA

Montessori Child Development LLC receives consistently excellent reviews from parents who praise the caring, attentive staff and effective Montessori curriculum. Parents report significant improvements in their children's confidence, independence, academic skills, and social development. The school is highlighted for its welcoming environment, strong communication with families, and dedicated leadership.

Caring and attentive staffeffective Montessori curriculumhe

Little Angels Academy

5(20)

3078 L Street, San Diego, CA

Little Angels Academy receives perfect 5/5 ratings from all parents. Parents consistently praise the caring and attentive staff, smooth transitions for children of all ages, educational activities, and communication through their parent app. Children show strong development and look forward to attending.

Loving and nurturing staffbilingual teachers availablesmooth transitions for infants and toddlers

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool

5(20)

4895 Saratoga Avenue, San Diego, CA

Sacred Heart Academy Preschool in San Diego receives universally positive feedback from parents who praise the caring, dedicated staff and comprehensive curriculum that balances play-based learning with kindergarten readiness skills. Parents consistently highlight the school's effectiveness with potty training, social-emotional development, and strong teacher-parent communication through the Brightwheel app.

Caring and dedicated teachersstrong kindergarten preparationplay-based learning approach

Manna'S Martial Arts INC.

5(20)

12285 B World Trade Drive, San Diego, CA

Manna's Martial Arts is a highly-rated martial arts studio in San Diego with consistent 5/5 star reviews. Parents praise the quality instruction, strong emphasis on discipline and life skills, and community atmosphere that extends beyond martial arts training. Multiple families report long-term enrollment (8-13 years) and significant positive impacts on their children's confidence, self-defense abilities, and character development.

Excellent instruction qualityemphasis on safety and respectpersonal attention to students

Fleur De Lis Nursery School

5(18)

3743 Front Street, San Diego, CA

Parents consistently praise Fleur de Lis as an exceptional preschool that fosters individual growth, confidence, and a love of learning through a dedicated, play-based curriculum. Staff members are described as caring, professional, and genuinely invested in each child's cognitive, emotional, and physical development. The beautiful natural setting, diverse and welcoming community, and strong preparation for kindergarten are frequently highlighted.

Individualized attention to each childwarm and caring staffdedicated curriculum

Manchester Family Child Development Center

5(16)

1752 Via Las Cumbres, San Diego, CA

Manchester Family Child Development Center receives universal 5-star ratings from parents who praise its caring, professional staff, safe and welcoming environment, and focus on child development and learning through play. Parents highlight excellent communication through daily apps and photos, strong parent community engagement, and successful preparation for kindergarten and school transitions. The center has a long-standing positive reputation in the San Diego community.

Map

Daycare Centers in San Diego, California

There are 425 daycare centers in San Diego, California. Below you'll find a complete directory to help you compare and choose the right daycare for your child.

When choosing a daycare in San Diego, consider visiting facilities in person, checking their licensing status, and asking about staff-to-child ratios, daily routines, and safety policies.

All Daycare Centers in San Diego

Showing 425 results

Crown Point Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8

Crown Point Junior Music Academy is a highly-rated magnet school serving Pre-K through 5th grade with an exceptional music program. Parents consistently praise the dedicated teachers, caring administration, strong Suzuki violin curriculum, and welcoming community atmosphere. The school recently completed construction renovations and offers multiple after-school enrichment programs.

Award-winning music program with Suzuki violin instructiondedicated and caring teachersprincipal who knows students by name
Address
4033 Ingraham Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 987-5500
Associated Students Child Care Center Infant Ctr
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8
Address
5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 594-7428
Associated Students Child Care Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.8
Address
5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 594-7428
Mission Nazarene Preschool-Infant
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
Mission Nazarene Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
4750 Mission Gorge Place, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 287-4900
St. Didacus School
Before or After School Daycare
3.7
Address
4639 Felton Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 284-6192
Klassic Kids Day Care - Sandburg Children Ctr.
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.7
Address
11230 Avenida Del Gato, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-7798
Klassic Kids Hardy
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
5420 Montezuma Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 534-2845
Klassic Kids Day Care- Hage Elementary
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
9750 Galvin Ave., San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-9552
Klassic Kids Day Care - Jerabek
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.5
Address
10050 Avenida Magnifica, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 265-9971
Nha-Euclid Avenue Head Start
Headstart Programs
3.5
Address
210 S. Euclid Ave, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 264-3577
Nha - Miller Head Start
Headstart Programs
3.4
Address
4343 Shields, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 278-0502
Rising Star Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.4

Rising Star Preschool San Diego receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents who praise the attentive, knowledgeable staff and director Ms. Rachelle for accommodating individual child needs, supporting developmental milestones, and being military-family friendly. However, two negative reviews reference concerns about a specific staff member's behavior and broader management issues at other Rising Star locations.

Caring and knowledgeable staffaccommodating to military families and special needsindividual learning tailored to each child
Address
3040 Fairmount Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 213-9356
Carmel Valley Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.3
Address
13340 Hayford Way, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 481-7933
Euclid Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3.3
Address
4141 Menlo Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-5631
Ecs - Nestor Head Start
Headstart Programs
3
Address
2399 Grove Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 423-4986
Ees-Child Development Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
3
Address
6960 Linda Vista Road, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 278-2457
Nha-Clairemont Mesa Head Start
Headstart Programs
3
Address
4271 Clairemont Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 581-2193
Ecs Montgomery Head Start
Headstart Programs
2.8

ECS Montgomery Head Start has polarizing reviews. Some parents report positive experiences with caring staff, bilingual education, and children enjoying school. However, multiple parents cite serious concerns including poor communication, failure to report injuries, unprofessional staff behavior, and lack of adherence to safety protocols.

Bilingual English/Spanish instructionteachers described as amazing and caringchildren eager to attend
Address
3240 Palm Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 424-4027
Aka Head Start - Darnall
Headstart Programs
1
Address
6020 Hughes Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 955-8730
Monterey Ridge Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
17117 4s Ranch Parkway, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 487-2628
Mt. Erie Christian Academy Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
530 South 47th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 262-6069
Little Sprouts Academy
Child Daycare & Preschools

Little Sprouts Academy receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviewers giving 5-star ratings. Parents praise the caring and dedicated teachers, engaging curriculum, and safe, clean facility. Children reportedly enjoy attending and parents feel confident their kids are well-cared for and prepared for kindergarten.

Dedicated and caring teachersengaging activities and curriculumorganic meals
Address
6690 Mission Gorge Rd., #R/S/T/Q, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 280-6690
Logan State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2875 Ocean View Boulevard, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-6500
Marshall State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
3550 Altadena Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-5100
Nha- John Marshall Head Start
Headstart Programs

NHA John Marshall Head Start receives consistently positive feedback from parents, with all reviews rating it 5/5 stars. Parents praise the warm and well-educated staff, clean facilities, and strong special education programs, particularly appreciating its proximity to John Marshall Elementary for accessing school district resources.

Friendly and caring staffclean facilitystrong special education programs
Address
3550 Altadena Avenue, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 624-2362
Mary Lanyon Fay Elementary State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
4080 52nd Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 624-2600
Oak Park State Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
2606 54th Street, San Diego, CA
Phone
(619) 344-5000
Walker'S Children'S Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
Address
9245 Hillery Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 566-7370
Nha - Walker Head Start
Headstart Programs
Address
9245 Hillery Drive, San Diego, CA
Phone
(858) 653-3671

Page 6 of 15· 425 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 425 all daycares in San Diego, California. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in San Diego, consider visiting facilities in person and checking:
  • Licensing status with California's regulatory agency
  • Staff-to-child ratios (requirements vary by age group in California)
  • Safety measures and cleanliness
  • Daily routines and educational curriculum
  • Parent reviews and ratings
  • Location and hours that fit your schedule
San Diego offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 372 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 29 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 7 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 17 facilities
Each type serves different needs — center-based facilities typically offer structured programs, while head start programs are federally funded for low-income families.
Daycare costs in California typically range from $200 to $400 per week for full-time care, depending on the child's age, facility type, and location within the state. Infant care tends to be more expensive due to lower staff-to-child ratio requirements. Contact individual facilities in San Diego for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in San Diego must be licensed by California's childcare licensing agency. Licensed facilities are required to meet standards for safety, health, staff qualifications, and staff-to-child ratios. You can verify a facility's license status through your state's licensing database.