The numbers nobody warns you about, finally in one place.

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The real cost of
having a child.

Daycare sticker shock is just the beginning. Get a personalized breakdown that includes all 6 childcare options, hidden costs, and the income impact nobody talks about.

6 scenarios compared 12 quick questions Free estimate

Not financial advice. Just honest numbers in your corner.

Question 1 of 12

Building your estimate...

Crunching local cost data and your answers.

1
Analyzing your location and income
2
Building childcare scenario comparison
3
Calculating hidden costs
4
Preparing your personalized breakdown
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Your estimate is ready.

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Your personalized estimate

Here is what childcare could cost you.

All 6 scenarios compared for your location.

Estimated total to raise your child from birth to 18

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What to expect, year by year

Costs are not evenly distributed. The early years and teen years are the most expensive.

Where the money goes

18-year breakdown by category, not including childcare (which varies by your choice and is shown below).

The early years: childcare options compared

Childcare is the biggest variable in your total. See how all 6 scenarios compare for your location.

Hidden costs nobody warns you about

These do not show up in any estimate — but they are real, and they add up.

Estimated additional annual cost
$0
This is on top of whichever childcare option you choose.
Childcare tax credit: Families can claim up to $3,000 for one child (or $6,000 for two or more) through the Child and Dependent Care Credit. You may also benefit from a Dependent Care FSA, which lets you set aside up to $5,000 pre-tax. These credits can meaningfully reduce your net childcare cost — talk to a tax professional about what applies to your situation.

Your financial picture goes beyond raising kids.

Get a complete view of your financial risk and what to protect with the free Risk Snapshot tool.

Take the Risk Snapshot