New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani speaks during a seder gathering at Union Square, in Manhattan, New York City, U.S., April 6, 2026. REUTERS/David Dee Delgado
(New York, NY) – Zohran Mamdani’s universal child care plan is facing new cost questions after an independent model estimated the program could run as high as $9.3 billion a year.
The new range, roughly $8.7 billion to $9.3 billion annually, is far above the $5 billion to $6 billion estimate voters heard during the 2025 mayoral campaign. The difference could mean billions more in recurring costs for New York City.
Supporters say universal child care would help working families, expand the labor force and reduce pressure on parents who are paying some of the highest care costs in the country. Critics say the plan still lacks a realistic funding path.
The higher estimate will likely intensify debate over taxes, city spending and whether New York can add another large entitlement program while already facing budget pressure.