Here are the most and least expensive U.S. cities for raising a child

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Raising a child is a rewarding experience, but it can also be quite expensive. Parents understand the financial commitment that comes with providing for their children. From food to childcare, the costs can add up quickly. A recent analysis conducted by SmartAsset delved into the expenses associated with raising a child in 48 major cities across the United States. The findings revealed that, on average, families spend over $26,000 annually on child-rearing expenses.

Interestingly, the study highlighted significant fluctuations in these costs from year to year. For instance, in St. Louis, Missouri, the cost of raising a child has surged by more than 20% in the past year alone.

Let’s take a closer look at the cities where it is most and least expensive to raise a child:

Most Expensive Cities:
1. Boston—Cambridge—Newton, MA
– Total annual cost in 2025: $39,221
– Total annual cost in 2024: $37,758
– Percent change: 3.87%

2. San Francisco—Oakland—Fremont, CA
– Total annual cost in 2025: $38,981
– Total annual cost in 2024: $35,642
– Percent change: 9.37%

3. San Jose—Sunnyvale—Santa Clara, CA
– Total annual cost in 2025: $37,867
– Total annual cost in 2024: $34,415
– Percent change: 10.03%

4. Seattle—Tacoma—Bellevue, WA
– Total annual cost in 2025: $34,448
– Total annual cost in 2024: $30,781
– Percent change: 11.91%

5. Hartford-West Hartford-East Hartford, CT
– Total annual cost in 2025: $33,149
– Total annual cost in 2024: $32,135
– Percent change: 3.16%

Least Expensive Cities:
1. Birmingham, AL
– Total annual cost in 2025: $19,082
– Total annual cost in 2024: $20,754
– Percent change: -8.06%

2. Memphis, TN
– Total annual cost in 2025: $19,264
– Total annual cost in 2024: $18,677
– Percent change: 3.14%

3. Nashville-Davidson—Murfreesboro—Franklin, TN
– Total annual cost in 2025: $20,787
– Total annual cost in 2024: $20,412
– Percent change: 1.84%

4. Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA
– Total annual cost in 2025: $20,821
– Total annual cost in 2024: $22,095
– Percent change: -5.77%

5. San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX
– Total annual cost in 2025: $20,945
– Total annual cost in 2024: $21,014
– Percent change: -0.33%

These figures shed light on the varying financial burdens faced by parents in different parts of the country. As the cost of living continues to rise, it is essential for families to carefully budget and plan for their children’s needs.

Mary Cunningham, a reporter for CBS MoneyWatch, provided insights into this analysis. With a background in journalism, Mary has a keen eye for financial trends and their impact on families. Her expertise adds depth to the discussion on the financial challenges of raising children in today’s society.