How much does a baby really cost?
Calculate your total child costs – including Child Benefit, childcare and all expenses. Plan your family finances smartly.
Based on: CPAG Cost of a Child reportYour Children
Costs are based on UK reference values for infant (0 years)
Housing & Equipment
Prices are approximate and can be adjusted. The cost is spread over the first year's budget.
CPAG: Minimum wage couple covers 82% • Median wage couple covers 98% • Lone parent on min wage covers 69%
Summary /month
Benefits
+£111
Costs
-£554
Net
-£443
Detailed breakdown
Income (benefits)
Costs
Costs based on CPAG Cost of a Child report • Full: £250k • Couple
Costs by Age Group
Average annual cost per age group based on UK reference data.
Year 0 includes one-off equipment: £1,005 for pram, car seat, cot, etc.
0 yrs
High - equipment
1-3 yrs
Toddler
4-6 yrs
Pre-school
7-10 yrs
Primary school
11-14 yrs
Secondary school
15-17 yrs
Teenager - most expensive
Maternity & Nursing Clothes
The baby budget isn't only about the baby. Browse a curated selection of maternity and nursing wear from Lindex – if you buy through our links the shop may pay us a commission, but the price you pay is never affected.
Planning your family finances
With proper planning, you can feel financially confident
Use Child Benefit
Child Benefit provides a solid foundation. You get £25.60/week for your first child and £16.95/week for each additional child.
Buy second-hand
Baby clothes and equipment can be bought second-hand for a fraction of the price. Children grow out of everything quickly.
Sibling savings
Hand-me-down clothes and equipment means each child after the first costs less overall.
UK Child Benefit Rates
Weekly Rates
- Eldest/only child£25.60/week
- Additional children£16.95/week
Monthly Totals
- 1 child~£111/month
- 2 children~£184/month
- 3 children~£258/month
* Higher earners may need to repay via High Income Child Benefit Charge
Guides for Parents
Read our guides about family finances – from benefits to savings
Child Benefit Guide
Complete guide to UK Child Benefit rates and how to claim.
Parental Leave
Everything about maternity, paternity and shared parental leave.
Save Money on Kids
Smart tips to reduce costs without compromising on quality.
Child Insurance
Guide to life insurance and savings plans for children.
Planning for a baby?
Use our calculator to plan your budget and understand the financial impact of having children.
Start calculating