A statewide poll highlights urgent challenges for families and the economy
A Rutgers–Eagleton poll, commissioned by Start Strong NJ, shows that voters overwhelmingly identify child care as too expensive, too hard to find, and a major barrier to work. Voters across political lines view child care as essential infrastructure with a direct impact on New Jersey’s economy.
From the report
68% of likely voters say finding quality, affordable child care is difficult.
80% call the lack of affordable, quality child care a barrier for parents who want to work.
70% say limited child care hurts the state’s businesses and economy.
Report Summary
The October 2025 Rutgers–Eagleton Poll surveyed 795 likely voters to capture how New Jersey residents view child care access, affordability, and economic impact. Voters across every demographic group report the same thing: families struggle to find and afford care, and these challenges directly affect parents’ ability to work.
Most voters — including nonparents — see child care as a statewide workforce issue. Many report personal experience or know someone who has struggled to secure care, underscoring the widespread reach of the problem. Researchers note that voters recognize that when families can’t access child care, businesses lose employees, productivity drops, and the state’s economy suffers. These findings point to significant opportunities for policymakers and business leaders to strengthen child care availability, affordability, and stability as essential components of New Jersey’s economic strategy.
Key Takeaways
Voters see child care as a major statewide challenge.
Child care barriers directly limit parents’ ability to work.
The poll shows broad, bipartisan alignment on the problem.
Most voters recognize child care as economic infrastructure.
Findings highlight the need for policy solutions and investment.
