Baby cost calculator
Build a first-year budget you can actually edit—not a scare headline.
Direct answer: pick a region, then replace the starter figures with your own quotes. The total updates instantly and stays on this screen.
Starter figures are rough planning averages for illustration—not quotes, insurance estimates or government benefits. Edit every line to match your family, coverage and local prices.
Includes the categories above for United States. Healthcare, childcare and paid leave change the result more than any single product.
What this calculator is for
Families often search for one national “cost of a baby” number and get averages that ignore insurance, public healthcare, paid leave and whether grandparents help with childcare. This tool separates the big buckets so you can pressure-test the plan before you buy anything.
Read country-specific context in our guides on the cost of having a baby in the UK, Canada and China.
Common questions
How much does a baby cost in the first year?
It varies widely by country, insurance, childcare and whether you buy new or second-hand. Healthcare and childcare usually dominate; gear is often the most flexible line.
Are the starter numbers accurate for my city?
No. They are rough planning defaults so you can start editing. Replace every figure with your quotes, insurance estimates, benefits and local prices.
Does this include maternity leave pay?
No. Paid leave, unpaid leave and lost earnings are separate from the spending categories shown. Add them in your own household budget if they matter for your plan.
What usually costs the most?
In many places, childcare and out-of-pocket medical costs outweigh strollers and nursery furniture. Diapers and feeding are steady monthly costs rather than one-time spikes.
Browse all free family tools, pack with the hospital bag checklist, or estimate dates with the due date calculator.