Story perspectives

Raising a Child Costs Over $303,000, Up 27.8%

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

On Fox and Friends, April 14, 2026, Ainsley Earhardt said it costs over $303,000 to raise a child, up 27.8% since 2023.
Lawrence Jones noted state variation, with Hawaii at $40,342 annually.
A LendingTree report shows rising costs prompt many potential parents to delay having children.
Although costs for under-fives have decreased, overall expenses remain high.
The segment concluded with Earhardt promoting tax-advantaged investment accounts for children.

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Story summary

On Fox and Friends, April 14, 2026, Ainsley Earhardt said it costs over $303,000 to raise a child, up 27.8% since 2023.
Lawrence Jones noted state variation, with Hawaii at $40,342 annually.
A LendingTree report shows rising costs prompt many potential parents to delay having children.
Although costs for under-fives have decreased, overall expenses remain high.
The segment concluded with Earhardt promoting tax-advantaged investment accounts for children.