Argentina childcare costs reach up to $697,268 monthly in July

The National Institute of Statistics and Censuses (INDEC) reported that the monthly cost of raising a child in Argentina reached up to $697,268 in July 2026. The 'Canasta de Crianza' (Childcare Basket) calculation varies based on the age of the child, divided into four distinct age groups.

According to the report, the monthly costs are as follows: - Children under 1 year: $545,683 - Children aged 1 to 3 years: $649,935 - Children aged 4 to 5 years: $554,646 - Children and adolescents aged 6 to 12 years: $697,268

The methodology used by INDEC combines two main components: the cost of goods and services, and the economic value of care time. The goods and services component is based on the Total Basic Basket (CBT) of Greater Buenos Aires, covering essentials such as food, clothing, transport, education, health, and housing. The care component is calculated by estimating the monthly hours required for childcare and valuing them based on the remuneration for the 'Assistance and care of persons' category within the domestic worker regime.