Baby cost estimator
First-year baby costs by category.
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How it's calculated
The first year is a set of monthly costs that run all year and a set of things bought once. Multiply the monthly lines by twelve, add the one-time purchases, and you have the year. Childcare dwarfs everything else when both parents work, which is why the total swings from under $10,000 to over $30,000 on that line alone. The defaults are mid-range US figures; replace them with your own quotes and the result is yours.
How much does a baby cost in the first year?
Estimates for the US range from about $12,000 to $25,000 in the first year, and the gap is mostly childcare: a parent at home or a grandparent nearby removes the single largest line. Diapers, formula and clothing together run roughly $250–400 a month.
Where can I save the most?
Childcare arrangements first, then feeding (breastfeeding or store-brand formula, which is held to the same standard), then gear: borrow or buy second-hand everything except the car seat and the crib mattress. Register for the big items and skip the specialised gadgets until you know you need them.
What does this not include?
Lost income if a parent stops working or cuts hours, a bigger car or home, life insurance, and saving for later years. It also stops at twelve months; years two and three are cheaper for gear but childcare continues.
Results are estimates for informational purposes only and are not financial, medical or legal advice.