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Baby Budget Calculator

Plan the true first-year cost of a new baby.

Enter your gear, monthly costs, and household income. Get first-year total, monthly savings target, and how much of your paycheck baby will really eat.

$23,120

First-year total

$1,927/mo to cash-fund

One-time gear

Monthly costs

Your plan

One-time gear

$2,600

Monthly cost

$1,710

First-year total

$23,120

% of income

28%

Freedom Coach™

First-year baby cost: ~$23,120.

$2,600 in gear up-front, then $1,710/mo — about 28% of your household income.

  • Start setting aside $1,927/mo NOW to spread the shock.
  • Build a 6-month emergency fund before baby arrives — parental leave gaps are the biggest surprise.
  • Buy the crib and car seat new; buy nearly everything else used to cut gear cost by 50%+.

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Save scenarios (mat leave, back-to-work, second kid), compare childcare paths, and get monthly progress emails.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does a baby cost in the first year?

Typical U.S. first-year cost is $12,000–$25,000, driven mostly by childcare. Without childcare, it's closer to $6,000–$10,000.

What's the biggest baby cost?

Childcare — a full-time daycare spot averages $1,000–$2,500/mo. If a parent stays home, replace that line with lost income.

What can I skip?

Wipe warmers, changing tables, bottle sterilizers, nursery-specific furniture, most 'newborn' clothes. Focus spend on car seat, crib mattress, and one good stroller.

Should I use a Dependent-Care FSA?

Yes if you'll have any childcare cost. You can set aside $5,000/yr pre-tax, saving $1,000–$1,800 in taxes depending on bracket.

How much should I save before baby?

Aim for 3–6 months' expenses in an emergency fund PLUS at least the one-time gear total. Parental leave gaps sink more new-parent budgets than baby costs themselves.

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