Cents of Children

Children are priceless, but raising them is probably the most expensive thing a parent will ever do, says USU Extension Family and Consumer Science Agent Carolyn Washburn. Over the child’s first 17 years, the cost is currently estimated to total between $139,000 and $279,000. No one decides for or against having a child based solely on dollars and cents, but monetary issues play a role and are important to consider. To help offset future expenses, plan now for upcoming events and costs, plan for emergencies, develop quality family relationships that will help in avoiding divorce and purchase adequate insurance.