Nurseries in Oxford
Oxford is the historic heart of Oxfordshire, known for its world-famous university, thriving cultural scene and strong demand for early years places. Covering OX1–OX4, it includes areas such as Headington, Jericho, Summertown, Cowley and Marston. Families benefit from excellent transport links to London and major employers such as the NHS, university colleges and research parks. This demand means nurseries often operate with high occupancy and waiting lists, especially in North Oxford and Headington.
Parents in Oxford typically pay £83 per day for childcare, which is slightly 10% higher than the UK average.
- Average Daily Cost
- £83
- Comparison
- +10% vs UK Average
- Total Capacity
- 8,101 places
Nurseries near you in Oxford
Frequently Asked Questions
In Oxford, private nurseries typically accept children from around 3 months old, with school nurseries offering places from age 2 or 3 depending on availability. Funded early education begins the term after a child turns 3, with eligible 2 year olds qualifying earlier.
Across England all 3 and 4 year olds receive 15 funded hours per week with many working families eligible for up to 30 hours. Some 2 year olds also qualify based on household circumstances, and eligible working parents of children from 9 months old may access funded childcare. Tax Free Childcare provides a 20 percent government top up to help with nursery costs.
Nursery fees in Oxford generally range from £75–£155 per day, with higher rates in Summertown, Headington and central Oxford.
All nurseries in Oxford are regulated by Ofsted, with early years funding overseen by Oxfordshire County Council.
Ask about waiting list times, outdoor space, meal fees, staffing ratios and how funded hours are delivered.
Applying for funding
Oxford is covered by Oxfordshire County Council, the local authority for this area. Visit their website to apply for early years funding.
Apply for funding on the Oxfordshire County Council website
