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Sample data. These numbers are illustrative placeholders and have not been verified against a source.

How much does it cost to raise a child per year?

Yearly costs include housing, food, childcare, healthcare, education and clothing and change a lot with age.

The typical cost is $17,000, with a range of $12,000 to $30,000 (US, 2026).

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Per year, average

US · 2026

$17,000 typical

Source: PLACEHOLDER: replace with a verified source

Childcare and housing are usually the largest parts. Costs rise again in the teen years with food, activities and transport.

Regional prices, family income and the kind of childcare you use make the biggest difference.

Last updated · How we get these numbers