The cost of having a baby varies widely depending on the country, type of birth, and additional expenses, but here are detailed estimates for 2025:
In the United States:
- Cost of childbirth: The average cost to give birth in the U.S. is about $18,865, including pregnancy, birth, and postpartum care. Vaginal births average around $14,768, while C-sections are more expensive, averaging $26,280. These costs can vary significantly by state and insurance coverage, with out-of-pocket expenses averaging around $3,000 for insured families
- First-year costs: Total expenses for the first year of a baby’s life, including food, diapers, clothing, healthcare, and childcare, typically range from $20,000 to $50,000 or more. Monthly ongoing costs average between $1,100 and $2,500
- Raising a child: Beyond infancy, raising a child through age 17 can cost roughly $319,000 for a middle-income family, with housing, food, and childcare being the largest expenses
In the United Kingdom:
- The cost to raise a baby in the first year is estimated at about £7,850. This figure may reduce by around £2,000 from September 2025 due to expanded childcare funding
- Monthly nursery costs for children under two are approximately £157.68 per week, totaling around £8,194 annually
In Europe (e.g., the Netherlands):
- A child costs about 17% of a family’s disposable income, with monthly baby expenses estimated at around €270.50
Summary:
Aspect| United States (2025)| United Kingdom (2025)| Netherlands (2025)
---|---|---|---
Birth cost| ~$18,865 (avg)| Included in NHS care (varies)| Included in
healthcare system
First-year total cost| $20,000–$50,000+| ~£7,850 (may reduce by £2,000)|
~€270.50/month (~€3,246/year)
Cost to raise to 17| ~$319,000| £165,872 (basic), £259,028 (with childcare)|
~17% of family income
These figures reflect averages and can vary based on location, healthcare coverage, delivery type, and family circumstances
