First-Year Baby Costs Calculator

Reviewed by Shanika Libert image Shanika Libert Newborn Care Specialist Specialty: Newborn care and Yoga Experience: 12 years

Shanika Libert has over 12 years of experience as a newborn care specialist. She supports new parents with her expertise in nurturing newborns and promoting their holistic wellness. In addition, she is a 200-hour Regis... more

, Newborn Care Specialist
Written by Dr. Ritika Shah image Dr. Ritika Shah BDS, CLC linkedin_icon Specialty: Dental and General Health, Lactation Experience: 10 years

Dr. Ritika Shah is a certified lactation counsellor (CLC) from iNational Health Care Academy, Singapore and a dental surgeon with more than seven years of clinical experience across various cities in India. She did her ... more

, BDS, CLC  â€¢ 

Your baby's first year will cost: $


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Ongoing Costs

Childcare
I won't be paying for regular childcare.
Help me estimate. I'll use a:
x  months
I know exactly. I'll spend: $ per month  x months
I'll use an occasional babysitter: $ per month x 12 months

Diapering
I'll be using     x 12 months
Wipes $ per month x 12 months


Feeding
I plan to breastfeed: $0 per month
Formula: I'll spend $ per month x months
Solid foods: I'll spend $ per month x months

Clothing
I'll probably spend $ per month x 12 months

Savings for College
I'll try to save $ per month x 12 months

Medicine/First Aid
I'll probably spend $ per month x 12 months

Toiletries
I'll probably spend $ per month x 12 months

Toys/Books/Media
I'll probably spend $ per month x 12 months
Subtotal of Ongoing Costs: $
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One-Time Costs

We've checked the things we think you'll need -- but please make adjustments based on what you plan to buy and how much you expect to spend.

Gear $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Infant car seat ($50 - $300)$
Convertible car seat ($80 - $500)$
Basic stroller ($150 - $1200)$
"Snap-on" stroller frame ($25 - $600)$
Jogging stroller ($100 - $500)$
Play yard ($25 - $500)$
Baby backpack ($15 - $400)$
Front carrier ($25 - $120)$
Sling or wrap carrier ($20 - $150)$
Diaper bag ($25 - $200)$


Activity Equipment $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Swing ($50 - $200)$
Bouncer/bouncy seat ($30 - $70)$
Activity center ($15 - $200)$
Play mat/gym ($15 - $100)$
Doorway jumper ($5 - $60)$


Nursery$
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Crib ($50 - $1200)$
Changing table ($25 - $900)$
Glider or rocker ($25 - $500)$
Bassinet ($30 - $800)$
Co-sleeper ($100 - $400)$
Hamper ($25 - $200)$
Basic bedding and blankets$
Coordinated crib bedding set ($50 - $300)$
Mobile ($10 - $110)$
Dresser ($50 - $800)$
Lamp ($10 - $100)$
Decorations$
Crib mattress$
Baby monitor ($25 - $200)$


Feeding $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Bottles and nipples$
Highchair ($50 - $400)$
Utensils$
Plates and bowls$
Cups and sippy cups$
Burp cloths$
Bottle brush$
Bibs$


Breastfeeding $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Electric breast pump ($30 - $120)$
Manual breast pump$
Milk storage bags, breast pads, extra breast shields, ice packs$
Nursing bras (3)$
Nursing pillow ($15 - $80)$


Bathing/Grooming $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Baby towel with hood (2)$
Infant bathtub$
Tub for older baby$
Baby washcloths (5)$
Brush and comb$
Baby nail clippers$


Other $
item (typical price range)estimated cost
Childproofing supplies$
Safety gates (2) ($15 - $250)$
Diaper pail$
Diaper pail refills$
Pacifiers (6)$
Humidifier ($15 - $90)$
Birth announcements$
Baby book or scrapbook$
Photo printing costs$
Miscellaneous$
Subtotal of One-Time Costs: $

Your baby's first year will cost: $

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I plan a budget for my baby per month?

The monthly budget for a baby can vary based on several factors, such as location, lifestyle, and individual needs. On average, however, parents can expect to spend between $1000 and $2500 monthly during the first year of the baby's life.

2. How much money should I save before having a baby?

Determining how much money to save before having a baby involves various factors, such as healthcare expenses, childcare costs, and potential loss of income during parental leave. The US Department of Agriculture estimates that raising a child from birth to age 18 averages around $233,610, excluding college expenses (1). It's advisable to have an emergency fund covering at least three to six months' living expenses to handle unexpected costs.

3. How much do diapers cost per month?

The monthly expenditure on diapers may fluctuate depending on the preferred type. Disposable diapers generally cost $150 to $275 per month, while diaper services typically range from $125 to $200 monthly. For those opting for cloth diapers, an initial investment averaging between $150 and $350 is required for diapers and associated accessories (2).

4. How much does having a baby in the US cost without insurance?

In the United States, the cost of having a baby without insurance can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of delivery, location, and any complications that may arise during pregnancy or childbirth. According to data from the Peterson-Kaiser Family Foundation, the average cost of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care for women enrolled in large group health insurance plans is $18,865, with an average out-of-pocket payment of $2,854 (3). It's important to note that without health insurance coverage, individuals can expect substantially higher costs as they would be responsible for covering their medical expenses during pregnancy.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
1. The Cost of Raising a Child
2. Budgeting for a Baby.
3. Health costs associated with pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.
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