Children at daycare

358 Daycare Centers in San Francisco, California

Browse all 358 daycare centers in San Francisco, California. Compare options and find the right childcare for your family.

Top 10 Best Rated Daycares in San Francisco

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
    Moldovan Academy INC.
    4.78 score
    5(18)

    1270 Sanchez Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 45 children

    Moldovan Academy receives consistent 5-star reviews from parents who praise the school's warm, caring environment and strong focus on social-emotional development. Parents report significant developmental gains in their children's speech, emotional regulation, and social skills, along with enthusiasm for attending school daily. The facility is noted for its small class sizes, engaging curriculum, and dedicated leadership under owner Kathleen.

    Warm and caring teachersstrong social-emotional development focussmall class sizesengaging hands-on curriculum (science
  2. 2

    401 Euclid Avenue, San Francisco, CA · Before or After School Daycare · Capacity: 59 children

    Laurel Hill Nursery School is a play-based cooperative preschool in San Francisco with consistently excellent ratings. Parents praise the caring teachers, nurturing community atmosphere, exceptional outdoor space, and the co-op model that encourages parental involvement and education. Families report significant positive impacts on their children's development and their own parenting skills.

    Experienced and caring teachersplay-based learning approachlarge and well-equipped outdoor spacecooperative model with parent involvement
  3. 3

    1105 Quintara Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 104 children

    Little Star Preschool Too receives perfect 5/5 ratings from parents who praise the warm, welcoming environment and dedicated teachers. Parents consistently report significant child development across academic, social, and emotional areas, with children eager to attend daily. The school is commended for quality facilities, engaging activities, community involvement, and strong parent communication.

    Caring and dedicated teachersindividual attention to each child's needsstrong child development (academic/social/emotional)warm and welcoming community atmosphere
  4. 4

    25 Lake Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 60 children

    Parents consistently praise MCH as an exceptional Montessori school with highly experienced, long-tenured teachers (many with 25+ years), a calm and nurturing environment, and strong community. Children are reported to thrive developmentally with increased independence, confidence, and love of learning. The school is described as well-run, welcoming to working families, and fostering genuine friendships among parents.

    Experienced teaching staff with long tenureauth
  5. 5

    1550 Eddy Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 48 children

    Parents universally praise Montessori School of the Bay Area for its loving, attentive care and experienced leadership under Ms. Vasi. Children consistently show enthusiasm about attending, and parents report strong developmental progress across academics and life skills. The school fosters a warm, welcoming environment where children feel accepted and families feel supported.

    Caring and loving teachersexperienced leadership (Ms. Vasi)clean and well-maintained facilitiesstrong communication with parents
  6. 6

    1550 Eddy Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 18 children

    Parents consistently praise Montessori School of the Bay Area for its loving, attentive care and nurturing environment. Director Ms. Vasi and her experienced teaching staff are highlighted as deeply invested in children's development and highly communicative with families. Children show genuine enthusiasm for attending school and demonstrate strong developmental progress across academic and social-emotional skills.

    Experiencedcaringand loving staff; Director Ms. Vasi's involved leadership and mentorship; Cleanwell-maintained facilities; Extended hours (7:30am-6pm); Montessori curriculum emphasizing exploration and learning; Strong communication with parents about daily activities and developmental milestones; Continuity from infant through pre-K; Bilingual exposure; Staff longevity (15-20+ years); Family partnership approach to challenges like potty training
  7. 7

    1401 Broadway, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 28 children

    Telegraph Hill Parent Participation Nursery (TelHi) receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise it as a nurturing, community-focused cooperative preschool. Parents highlight the play-based learning model, exceptional teachers, strong sense of belonging, and diverse, inclusive environment. The parent participation component is valued for building lasting friendships and providing insight into their child's development.

    Cooperative model with parent invol
  8. 8
    St. Anne Preschool
    4.67 score
    5(10)

    1362a 14th Avenue, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 25 children

    St. Anne Preschool receives consistently high praise from parents for its experienced, caring staff and strong educational program. Parents highlight the school's balanced approach combining academics with developmental and social-emotional learning, along with excellent communication from director Judy. The facility fosters a strong sense of community among families.

    Experienced and dedicated teaching staff with high retention rateswarm and welcoming environmentstrong curriculum balancing academics and life skillslow student-teacher ratio
  9. 9
    Little Bee
    4.67 score
    5(10)

    2733 Lombard Street, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 32 children

    Parents consistently praise Little Bee as an excellent preschool with caring, attentive staff and strong communication. The bilingual immersion program (Mandarin and English), outdoor exploration in the Presidio, organized curriculum, and active community are frequently highlighted as major strengths. All reviewers report positive experiences with their children's development and adjustment.

    Warm and attentive staffbilingual immersion (Mandarin)outdoor exploration in Presidiodaily photo/video updates
  10. 10

    3595 Taraval St, San Francisco, CA · Child Daycare & Preschools · Capacity: 30 children

    Little People Preschool receives consistently positive reviews from parents whose children attended. Parents praise the nurturing staff, educational curriculum combined with engaging activities, and the director Galina's leadership. Children are reported to thrive academically and socially while enjoying the program daily.

    Caring and patient teachersclean and organized facilitybalanced mix of academics and hands-on activitiesquality meals provided

Top Rated

Highest rated daycares in San Francisco based on parent reviews

Moldovan Academy INC.

5(18)

1270 Sanchez Street, San Francisco, CA

Moldovan Academy receives consistent 5-star reviews from parents who praise the school's warm, caring environment and strong focus on social-emotional development. Parents report significant developmental gains in their children's speech, emotional regulation, and social skills, along with enthusiasm for attending school daily. The facility is noted for its small class sizes, engaging curriculum, and dedicated leadership under owner Kathleen.

Warm and caring teachersstrong social-emotional development focussmall class sizes

Laurel Hill Nursery School

5(17)

401 Euclid Avenue, San Francisco, CA

Laurel Hill Nursery School is a play-based cooperative preschool in San Francisco with consistently excellent ratings. Parents praise the caring teachers, nurturing community atmosphere, exceptional outdoor space, and the co-op model that encourages parental involvement and education. Families report significant positive impacts on their children's development and their own parenting skills.

Experienced and caring teachersplay-based learning approachlarge and well-equipped outdoor space

Little Star Preschool Too

5(17)

1105 Quintara Street, San Francisco, CA

Little Star Preschool Too receives perfect 5/5 ratings from parents who praise the warm, welcoming environment and dedicated teachers. Parents consistently report significant child development across academic, social, and emotional areas, with children eager to attend daily. The school is commended for quality facilities, engaging activities, community involvement, and strong parent communication.

Caring and dedicated teachersindividual attention to each child's needsstrong child development (academic/social/emotional)

Montessori Children'S House Of The West Coast

5(17)

25 Lake Street, San Francisco, CA

Parents consistently praise MCH as an exceptional Montessori school with highly experienced, long-tenured teachers (many with 25+ years), a calm and nurturing environment, and strong community. Children are reported to thrive developmentally with increased independence, confidence, and love of learning. The school is described as well-run, welcoming to working families, and fostering genuine friendships among parents.

Experienced teaching staff with long tenureauth

Montessori School Of The Bay Area INC.

5(16)

1550 Eddy Street, San Francisco, CA

Parents universally praise Montessori School of the Bay Area for its loving, attentive care and experienced leadership under Ms. Vasi. Children consistently show enthusiasm about attending, and parents report strong developmental progress across academics and life skills. The school fosters a warm, welcoming environment where children feel accepted and families feel supported.

Caring and loving teachersexperienced leadership (Ms. Vasi)clean and well-maintained facilities

Montessori School Of The Bay Area INC. - Infant

5(16)

1550 Eddy Street, San Francisco, CA

Parents consistently praise Montessori School of the Bay Area for its loving, attentive care and nurturing environment. Director Ms. Vasi and her experienced teaching staff are highlighted as deeply invested in children's development and highly communicative with families. Children show genuine enthusiasm for attending school and demonstrate strong developmental progress across academic and social-emotional skills.

Experiencedcaringand loving staff; Director Ms. Vasi's involved leadership and mentorship; Clean

Map

Daycare Centers in San Francisco, California

There are 358 daycare centers in San Francisco, 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 Francisco, 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 Francisco

Showing 358 results

Nihonmachi Little Friends Sutter Site
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6
Address
1830 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 922-4060
One Fifty Parker Avenue Nursery School
Before or After School Daycare
4.6

One Fifty Parker Avenue Nursery School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents who praise the experienced, attentive teachers and strong sense of community. Parents highlight the school's unique Little Red School Bus program, beautiful campus with outdoor spaces, and success in preparing children for kindergarten transitions. Children reportedly develop confidence, independence, social-emotional skills, and genuine enthusiasm for attending school.

Expe
Address
150 Parker Ave, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 221-0294
Peekadoodle Academy Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Parents consistently praise Peekadoodle Academy as an exceptional preschool with caring, professional staff, clean modern facilities, and a warm, nurturing environment. Children show significant developmental gains in language, social skills, and independence, with families reporting high satisfaction from enrollment through kindergarten preparation.

Warm and caring teaching staffknowledgeable and professional teachersclean and modern facilities
Address
900 North Point St. Ste. F100, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 440-7335
Portola Family Connections-Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

Portola Family Connections-Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the caring, patient teachers and comprehensive programming. Parents highlight the center's value beyond childcare, including parent education classes, community resources, and social-emotional development for children. The facility supports children from ages 2 through school-age with various programs including preschool, after-school, and summer camps.

Experienced and patient teacherssocialization opportunities for childrenparent education and support programs
Address
2565 San Bruno Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 715-6746
St. Mary'S Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.6

St. Mary's Preschool receives unanimous 5-star ratings from parents who praise the safe, caring environment and dedicated teachers. Parents consistently report that their children love attending and are well-prepared for kindergarten, with many families enrolling multiple children or returning as alumni.

Safe and caring environmentloving and attentive teachersexcellent facilities
Address
838 Kearny Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 981-9138
Hearing And Speech Center Of Northern California
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

This is not a daycare center but an audiology and speech therapy clinic. Reviews praise the audiologists and staff for their thorough, compassionate, and knowledgeable care in treating hearing loss and fitting hearing aids. Patients report long-term satisfaction and significantly improved quality of life.

Knowledgeable and caring audiologistspersonalized and thorough evaluationshonest recommendations without brand bias
Address
1234 Divisadero St., San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 921-7658
The Ark Christian Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
3141 Vicente Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 731-0912
Pomeroy Recreation & Rehabilitation Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5

Pomeroy Recreation & Rehabilitation Center is highly praised for its swim lesson programs, with parents noting significant progress in their children's swimming skills within months. The facility offers a warm saltwater pool (92 degrees), friendly and attentive staff, spacious venue for events, and serves multiple community programs including special needs day programs and senior activities.

Excellent swim instructorswarm saltwater poolchild progress in swimming lessons
Address
207 Skyline Blvd., San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 665-4100
Big City Montessori School
Before or After School Daycare
4.5

Big City Montessori School receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from most parents, who praise the quality of instruction, experienced teachers, and supportive community. A small number of parents report serious concerns about child expulsion practices, refund policies, and alleged discriminatory behavior by management.

Exceptional teachers and staffMontessori method with mixed-age classesstrong child development outcomes
Address
240 Industrial Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 648-5777
Kangaroos Preschool II
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
298 Monterey Blvd., San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 333-4452
Little Footprints Preschool Corp.
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
2201 Vicente Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 200-8607
Sfusd-Bret Harte (Ees) Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
950 Hollister Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 330-1545
Playgroup (Ps)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
1818 & 1819 Wedemeyer Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 722-0661
Rainbow Montessori
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.5
Address
2358 24th Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 661-9100
Kinderhaus - A German International Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

Kinderhaus receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its German immersion program, engaged staff, play-based curriculum, and strong community atmosphere. Most parents praise rapid language development, excellent teacher-to-student ratios, and abundant outdoor activities. One parent raised concerns about staff supervision and bullying behavior on the shared playground.

German immersion programstaff expertise and dedicationlow teacher-to-student ratio
Address
198 Waterville Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 335-9306
C5 Children'S School Preschool Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

C5 Children's School Preschool Center receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with most citing excellent teachers, child-led learning approaches, and strong community. Parents consistently praise the caring staff, low teacher turnover, included meals, and child development outcomes. One parent gave a minimal rating without details.

Kind and patient teacherschild-led play and explorationlow teacher turnover
Address
455 Golden Gate Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 703-1277
The Little School
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.4

The Little School receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with most praising exceptional teachers, thoughtful curriculum balancing academics with social-emotional development, and strong family communication. Parents highlight the school's nurturing environment, focus on individual child needs, and inclusive community. One parent gave a negative rating citing rudeness, though no specific details were provided.

Warm and patient teachersbalanced curriculumsocial-emotional development focus
Address
1520 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 567-0430
Ccfc-Turk
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3
Address
259 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 928-5178
Ccfc-Vv John King Center (P)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

This facility appears to be a senior housing community rather than a daycare center. Reviews are mixed, with most praising the well-run environment and on-site staff, though some mention operational issues with meal planning and occasional front desk absences.

Beautiful facility with ample spacediverse community24/7 on-site staff
Address
500 Raymond Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 921-7019
Ccfc-Vv John King Center (I)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

These reviews appear to be for a senior housing community rather than a daycare center. Most reviewers rate it highly (5/5 or 4/5), praising the facility layout and on-site management, though some mention operational inconsistencies.

Beautiful facility with ample spacemixed community24/7 on-site staff
Address
500 Raymond Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 921-7019
Little Lync Child Care Center (The)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3

Little LYNC receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from parents, with 8 five-star reviews praising the caring teachers, nurturing environment, and play-based curriculum. Parents consistently highlight their children's happiness and the school's inclusive community. One negative review criticizes the owner's business practices and prioritization of profit over family needs.

Dedicated and caring teacherswarm welcoming environmentplay-based creative curriculum
Address
501 Connecticut Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 282-5962
Sojourner Truth Center
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.3
Address
1 Cashmere Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 401-1379
The Crayon Box Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2
Address
3215 Cesar Chavez, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 821-9008
Family Developmental Center (Preschool)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Family Developmental Center receives mostly positive feedback from parents who praise the caring staff and quality of education. However, one parent reported a serious incident involving their child's allergic reaction and concerns about staff communication regarding the child's condition.

Caring and loving staffquality teacherschildren's academic development
Address
2730 Bryant Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 282-1090
Glide Child Care & Family Support
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Glide Child Care & Family Support receives mostly positive feedback, with parents praising the organization's social work impact and helpful staff. One reviewer expressed dissatisfaction, citing false hope. The center is described as supportive for families in need.

Helpful social serviceskind and efficient staffpositive community impact
Address
434 Ellis Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 674-6200
Language In Action-Jose Coronado Clubhouse (Ps)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Reviews describe Jose Coronado Clubhouse as a well-maintained public park facility with multiple recreational amenities. Parents appreciate the cleanliness, accessibility, and variety of activities available for children. Note: One reviewer clarified there are two distinct locations at different addresses with different facilities.

Multiple sports facilities (tennis courtsbasketball hoopssoccer fields)
Address
2498 Folsom Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 606-1205
Petite Explorer Preschool
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2
Address
722 South Van Ness, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 872-9185
Wah Mei School
Before or After School Daycare
4.2
Address
1400 Judah Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 665-4212
Family Developmental Center (Infant)
Child Daycare & Preschools
4.2

Family Developmental Center receives mostly positive feedback, with parents praising the caring staff and quality of education. However, one parent reported a serious incident involving a child's allergic reaction and concerns about staff communication regarding their child's condition.

Caring and loving staffquality educationchildren reluctant to leave for kindergarten
Address
2730 Bryant Street, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 282-1090
Playmates Cooperative Nursery School
Before or After School Daycare
4.1
Address
2340 -42nd Avenue, San Francisco, CA
Phone
(415) 681-2025

Page 5 of 12· 358 results

Frequently asked questions

There are 358 all daycares in San Francisco, California. Browse our directory to compare options and find the right fit for your child.
When choosing a daycare in San Francisco, 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 Francisco offers several types of childcare facilities:
  • Child Daycare & Preschools — 294 facilities
  • Headstart Programs — 16 facilities
  • Church Daycare — 9 facilities
  • Before or After School Daycare — 39 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 Francisco for current pricing.
Yes, daycare centers in San Francisco 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.