Child Cost Calculator

Estimate annual and total costs of raising a child from birth to adulthood.

How Child Costs are Calculated

This calculator projects total child-raising costs:

Base costs: Sum of all annual expense categories
Age adjustments: Costs vary by age (childcare high when young, activities increase later)
Inflation: Future costs adjusted for expected inflation
Total projection: Cumulative cost until target age

How much does it cost to raise a child?: In the US, the average cost is $250,000-$300,000 from birth to age 18 (not including college). In Western Europe, it is €150,000-€250,000. Costs vary significantly by location, lifestyle, and childcare choices.
What are the biggest expenses?: Housing (extra bedroom, bigger home) is typically 25-30% of costs. Childcare (daycare, nanny) is often the biggest expense for young children, sometimes $1,000-$2,500/month. Food, healthcare, and education follow.
How do costs change as children grow?: Childcare costs drop significantly once children start school (around age 5-6). However, activity costs, clothing, and food increase as they grow. Teen years often see higher entertainment, technology, and transportation costs.