Colorado’s child care challenges are more than a family issue — they are a significant economic constraint. This report from the Commons Sense Institute, a nonpartisan research organization dedicated to the protection and promotion of Colorado’s economy, highlights how high costs and limited access to child care are reshaping the workforce, with many parents, particularly mothers, reducing hours or leaving jobs altogether.
In some areas, the study finds, child care can now consume up to a quarter of a household’s income, far exceeding what is considered affordable and placing strain on working families.
What’s more, Colorado faces a major shortage of child care slots, leaving many families without viable options and contributing to thousands of parents being sidelined from the workforce. Expanding access could unlock substantial economic gains, including increased labor force participation and billions in additional economic activity.
Importantly, the report outlines opportunities for progress. With recent policy momentum and growing awareness, there are actionable pathways to improve both affordability and access. Addressing child care is not just a social priority—it is a strategic investment in Colorado’s workforce, economic resilience, and long-term growth.