US parents report high costs of raising children

A national poll by the University of Michigan Health C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital indicates that 80% of US parents believe having a baby is too expensive. Among parents with children aged three or younger, 40% described their household finances as struggling or merely getting by.

Financial pressures stem from essential, non-optional expenses such as diapers, nutritious food, car seats, and childcare. To manage these costs, many families are working additional hours, cutting spending, or relying on secondhand goods. Over one-third of financially strained families reported constant worry regarding money.

There is significant public support for policy interventions. Nearly 75% of parents support state-level paid leave, while approximately 60% favor programs providing infant formula or healthy food. More than half of respondents back free or reduced-cost childcare and assistance with essential items like car seats.