NYC free child care: NYC to launch free 2-K child care next year, 2,000 seats opening in early summer, says Mayor Zohran Mamdani
Mamdani said child care is one of the main reasons working families leave the city. “After housing, this is the number one reason why working families leave,” Mamdani said. Mamdani said $20,000 for child care in New York City is considered a “good deal” and called it ridiculous. In the interview, Mamdani said there are only two requirements to apply for the free program.
Free 2-K child care rules
The child must turn 2 years old in 2026. The family must live in one of four selected school districts. Families can apply regardless of their income, immigration status or job. Families living in Washington Heights, Hamilton Heights and Inwood in School District 6 are eligible to apply. In School District 10, families in Fordham, Belmont, Norwood, Morris Heights, Van Cortlandt Village and Kingsbridge are eligible.
In School Districts 18 and 23, families in Canarsie, Remsen Village, Brownsville and Ocean Hill are eligible. In School District 27, families in Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Richmond Hill, Howard Beach, Woodhaven and the Rockaways are eligible to apply.
12,000 more seats next year
In the interview, Mamdani said another 12,000 free child care seats will be added next year. It is not yet clear where these 12,000 new seats will be located. Mamdani said he wants free 2-K to be available to every New York family within four years, according to PIX11. Kathy Hochul agreed to pay for the first two years of the program.
Some people question how the city will pay for the program after state funding ends. Mamdani pointed to a plan to raise taxes on wealthy New Yorkers and corporations to help pay for the program. “We want this to be successful for years to come, and we know success will depend on recurring, long-term revenues,” Mamdani told PIX11 News.
FAQ
Q1. When can families apply for free 2-K child care in New York?Families will be able to apply for the first 2,000 free 2-K seats in early summer, according to Mayor Zohran Mamdani.
Q2. Who is eligible for free 2-K child care in New York?
Children who live in selected school districts and turn 2 in 2026 are eligible to apply, regardless of their income or immigration status.
