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Raising a Child Hits $303,418; 77% Struggle

4/8/2026

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Story summary
  • LendingTree estimates raising a child in the United States costs $303,418 over 18 years in 2026.
  • The figure rose 2% from the previous year and first exceeded $300,000 since 2023, nearing the $356,000 median home price.
  • The analysis uses a median income of $100,000 and excludes college costs, which could add $152,000.
  • A CBS News poll finds 77% of Americans feel it is harder to raise a family today.