WASHINGTON, D.C. — The cost of raising a child in the United States has surpassed $300,000 for the first time, reflecting continued pressure from housing, food, and child care expenses.
A new analysis by LendingTree estimates parents will spend an average of $303,418 to raise a child from birth through age 18 in 2026, or about $16,857 annually. The figure marks a roughly 2% increase from the previous year and does not include college costs, which could add significantly more.
Researchers found that housing remains a major driver, with rent costs rising sharply in recent years, while food and child care also contribute heavily to overall expenses. Families now spend about 21.9% of their income on child-related costs.
Geographic differences remain substantial. Hawaii ranks as the most expensive state, with costs exceeding $412,000, while lower-cost states such as South Carolina and New Hampshire average closer to $200,000.
The findings come as many Americans report financial strain, with polling showing a majority believe raising children is more difficult today than in past generations. While some expenses, such as infant child care, have stabilized or slightly declined, the overall trend continues upward.
The analysis is based on federal data and reflects typical expenses for a median-income household.
Sources:
- CBS News – MBFC Rating
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