Baby Cost Calculator

USDA estimate: Average cost to raise a child to 18: ~$310,000 (2024 dollars), not including college. First year is typically $12,000-25,000.

Childcare is #1: Often the biggest expense, ranging from $800-2,500/month depending on location and type. This alone can exceed $18K-30K/year.

Ways to save: Breastfeeding vs. formula, secondhand gear/clothes, cloth diapers, family childcare, employer dependent care FSA.

Health insurance: Add baby within 30 days of birth (special enrollment). Review family vs. individual plan costs.