Childcare Businesses in Melbourne, Florida & Brevard County
DAYCARE FOR SALE
OWN A CHILDCARE BUSINESS
Brevard County's growing population of young families creates strong, sustained demand for quality childcare. With major employers like L3Harris, Northrop Grumman, and the aerospace industry attracting working parents, licensed daycare centers consistently operate with waitlists. Whether you're an experienced childcare professional looking to own your own center or an investor seeking a recession-resistant business, Reach Commercial Real Estate can help you find and evaluate daycare acquisition opportunities.
MARKET DEMAND
Childcare is essential infrastructure for a growing community. Quality centers with strong reputations command premium tuition and maintain consistent enrollment.
12,000+ — Net new residents annually in Brevard County
35% — Households with children under 18
HIGH — Waitlist demand at quality centers
LICENSED DAYCARE CENTERS
Full-service childcare for infants through pre-K. Typically 50-150+ children capacity. Requires DCF licensing and ongoing compliance.
PRESCHOOLS
Educational-focused programs for ages 3-5. Often operate school-year hours. May include VPK (Voluntary Pre-K) funding.
BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL
Programs serving school-age children. Lower staffing ratios, facility needs. Often located near elementary schools.
FRANCHISE CHILDCARE
Goddard School, Primrose, KinderCare, and other franchise systems. Brand recognition and operational support with franchise fees.
TYPES OF CHILDCARE BUSINESSES
Enrollment history — Trends over 3+ years
Tuition rates — Competitive with market?
Revenue per child — Infant vs. toddler vs. pre-K
Staffing costs — Largest expense, verify payroll
Profitability — EBITDA and owner benefit
Financial Due Diligence
WHAT TO EVALUATE
DCF license status — Any violations, complaints, or investigations?
Staff credentials — CDA certifications, background checks current?
Facility condition — Playground, classrooms, kitchen, safety equipment
Parent contracts — Terms, notice requirements, deposits
Reputation — Google reviews, parent references, community standing
Operational Due Diligence
IMPORTANT: LICENSING TRANSFER
Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) childcare licenses are tied to the owner and location. When purchasing a daycare, you'll need to apply for your own license—you cannot simply transfer the seller's license. This process takes 60-90+ days and requires background checks, training, facility inspection, and compliance verification. Plan your acquisition timeline accordingly, and ensure the purchase contract addresses the licensing transition period.