{"id":58161,"date":"2026-02-19T13:39:35","date_gmt":"2026-02-19T18:39:35","guid":{"rendered":""},"modified":"2026-03-11T12:58:58","modified_gmt":"2026-03-11T16:58:58","slug":"the-cost-of-raising-a-child-in-canada-what-to-expect-at-every-stage","status":"publish","type":"rbc_my_money_matter","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/life-events\/finances-and-relationships\/parenthood\/the-cost-of-raising-a-child-in-canada-what-to-expect-at-every-stage\/","title":{"rendered":"The Cost of Raising a Child in Canada: What to Expect at Every Stage"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-block drop-shadow pos-rel top-line-blue block-wpr\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-block-inner-block block-inner\">\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-tldr\">TLDR<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>The average cost of raising a child in Canada is roughly $293,000 from birth to age 17.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Costs change by age and stage, with childcare, activities and food driving most expenses.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Not every dollar is fixed. Many costs are flexible, seasonal or optional.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Thoughtful budgeting can help prepare your family for the costs ahead and reduce financial stress.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Raising children comes with steady, rising costs that can strain even well-planned budgets. Add inflation, housing pressure and the pace of modern life, and it\u2019s no wonder many parents feel stretched at times. Statistics Canada estimates that the average cost of raising a child in Canada from birth to age 17 is roughly <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/pub\/11-627-m\/11-627-m2023054-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-0d51bc83\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$293,000\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$293,000<\/a>* for a middle-income, two-parent family with two children.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>And yet, raising a family isn\u2019t just a financial equation. It\u2019s a joy, a commitment and a long-term investment in something truly special and being prepared for the costs ahead will help you focus on what matters most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This article breaks down the everyday costs of raising a child and helps you budget for them realistically, so you can focus more on the moments that matter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-much-does-it-cost-to-raise-a-child-in-canada\">How much does it cost to raise a child in Canada?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>On average, families spend roughly $17,000 per year, per child. But there is a fair bit of variation in that number \u2013 costs depend on age, location, childcare access and family choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-costs-feel-higher-today\">Why costs feel higher today<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If it feels more expensive than ever to raise a child, you\u2019re not imagining things. Here\u2019s why:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Inflation and cost-of-living pressures affect groceries, clothing and the cost of activities<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Higher expectations for children to excel mean parents are investing more in elite sports programs, tutoring and camps<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Childcare demand continues to outpace availability, especially in urban centres. While the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/employment-social-development\/campaigns\/child-care.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-b7958987\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care system<\/a>&nbsp; (CWELCC) has helped lower average fees, many families still struggle to secure a spot, often turning to more expensive alternatives when licensed care isn\u2019t available.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-expenses-that-change-as-children-age\">Expenses that change as children age<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As your child grows, the costs can change too. Not all at once, and not always in obvious ways, but each stage will bring its own mix of expenses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Infancy: Childcare and one-time startup costs as you get set up<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>School-age children: Activities, camps, supplies and care gaps between school hours<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Teen years: Food, clothing, technology and transportation costs as your child develops independence and individuality<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>And when you consider other everyday expenses, such as dental care, vision, orthodontics or prescription medicines, annual out-of-pocket costs can add up to anywhere from a few hundred dollars to over $1,000 per year, depending on needs and your coverage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While no two families budget the same way, the estimates below can help you get a sense of how these costs often break down over the course of a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-typical-annual-child-related-expenses-in-canada-per-child\">Typical annual child-related expenses in Canada (per child)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-reg-font-size is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<table class=\"table-stack wp-block-rbc-stackable-table-block is-style-table-striped col-stack\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Item<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Estimated Annual Cost Per Child<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Childcare<\/td><td>$0-$6,500<sup>2<\/sup><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Food<\/td><td>$3,000<sup>3<\/sup><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Clothing<\/td><td>$1,200<sup>3<\/sup><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>School &amp; Activities<\/td><td>$2,400<sup>3<\/sup><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Health &amp; Miscellaneous<\/td><td>$2,400<sup>3<\/sup><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-reg-font-size\">Every family\u2019s experience is different, and single parents, newcomers, and those living in higher-cost regions may see costs vary significantly from the average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-cost-of-raising-a-young-child-age-0-5\">The cost of raising a young child (age 0 \u2013 5)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Depending largely on childcare access, costs typically range from <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/pub\/11f0019m\/11f0019m2023007-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-001d64f1\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$12,000 to $21,600 per year\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$12,000 to $21,600 per year<\/a>. Beyond that headline number, there are a few common categories of spending that tend to shape family budgets during these early years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-one-time-startup-costs\">One-time startup costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you bring your child home for the first time, you\u2019ll need to have some gear on hand: a car seat, crib, stroller and highchair. Initial baby gear and setup costs typically range from <a href=\"https:\/\/torontobabyguide.ca\/budgeting-for-baby-torontos-cost-breakdown-2025-guide\/#:~:text=Initial%20baby%20gear%20and%20setup%20costs%20typically%20range,clothing%2C%20and%20baby%20supplies%20average%20%24200%E2%80%93%24500%20or%20more.\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-ef9348b6\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$1,000 to $5,000\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$1,000 to $5,000<\/a>, depending on lifestyle and brand choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some of these items will need to be swapped out as your child grows, so it\u2019s important to budget for your initial expenses and the next stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are also opportunities to reduce costs along the way. You can save some meaningful cash when you buy used: there are many high-quality resale strollers, chairs and swings in consignment shops and online. For an extra bonus, you can resell them later to recoup some of that spend. &nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-ongoing-monthly-costs\">Ongoing monthly costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Once the initial setup is behind you, most early-childhood expenses fall into monthly rhythms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-childcare\">Childcare<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Childcare is often the single largest expense, and costs vary widely. &nbsp;Under the CWELCC system, average fees for licensed childcare space are about $435 per month. Unsubsidized full-time infant care is significantly higher \u2013 in Toronto, for example, the <a href=\"https:\/\/torontobabyguide.ca\/budgeting-for-baby-torontos-cost-breakdown-2025-guide\/#childcare-costs-parental-leave-in-toronto\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-e8fd27e7\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"monthly cost is $1,685\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">monthly cost is $1,685<\/a>, and home-based care or nannies often exceed $1,200 &#8211; $2,000+ with no subsidy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 2025, <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/daily-quotidien\/251021\/dq251021c-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-ed664618\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"58% of children\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">58% of children<\/a> aged 0 to 5 years were in some form of childcare.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-diapers\">Diapers<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Expect roughly <a href=\"https:\/\/www.babycenter.ca\/a1027427\/top-baby-costs-and-how-to-save\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-9f0a62c9\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$90 per month\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$90 per month<\/a>, depending on the brand you choose and your baby\u2019s stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-food-and-clothing\">Food and clothing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Infants may need formula, then baby food, then\u2026 real food. Clothing turns over quickly, though toddlers do tend to remain blissfully indifferent as to whether their shirt is new or lovingly pre-owned.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind, too, that you may be able to gift or resell their clothes when your child outgrows them. A neighbourhood hand-me-down system may also work well, particularly if you know a few families with kids of varying ages. It\u2019s a great way to cut costs, especially for those big items like winter coats and boots!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-this-stage-feels-financially-intense\">Why this stage feels financially intense<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This stage often feels financially intense because it is. Many costs are new and frequent \u2013 and sometimes come with bigger price tags than expected. If your income dips during parental leave, that added pressure can make spending feel less flexible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-cost-of-raising-a-primary-school-aged-child-age-6-12\">The cost of raising a primary school-aged child (age 6 \u2013 12)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Costs at this stage typically range from <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/pub\/11f0019m\/11f0019m2023007-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-65853613\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$13,200 to $22,500\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$13,200 to $22,500<\/a> per year, with activities, school-related spending and care gaps gradually taking on a bigger role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-school-related-expenses\">School-related expenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Supplies, field trips, lunch programs and before- and after-school care can add up, even in public school systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-activities-and-camps\">Activities and camps<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sports, lessons and summer camps bring registration fees, equipment costs and seasonal spikes in spending.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-food-clothing-and-growth-spurts\">Food, clothing and growth spurts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As kids grow, their appetites \u2013 and opinions \u2013 grow right along with them. Grocery bills tend to creep up, shoes seem to last five minutes and clothing needs change just as fast. This is also the age when brand awareness arrives (long before budgeting skills do!).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-the-cost-of-raising-a-teenager-age-13-17\">The cost of raising a teenager (age 13 \u2013 17)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Annual costs typically range from <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/pub\/11f0019m\/11f0019m2023007-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-679871f8\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"$9,000 to $14,000\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">$9,000 to $14,000<\/a>, depending on your family\u2019s choices and lifestyle. There may be fewer individual purchases than in earlier years, but the ones that do come up tend to be larger.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The teenage years tend to be surprising and unwieldy in many ways \u2013 including financial. Parents often expect costs to taper off as their children grow up, only to find that despite purchasing fewer products, those they do buy come with bigger price tags.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-food-clothing-and-technology\">Food, clothing and technology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Teenagers eat adult-sized meals. Phones, data plans and laptops increasingly feel non-negotiable for school and social<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-transportation-and-independence\">Transportation and independence<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>lessons and car insurance come into play here. Adding a teen driver can significantly increase<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-education-support\">Education support<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Tutoring and extra-curriculars tied to post-secondary goals can expand your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-costs-by-age-group-annual-estimates\">Costs by age group\u00a0(annual\u00a0estimates)*<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-text-reg-font-size is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<table class=\"table-stack wp-block-rbc-stackable-table-block is-style-table-striped col-stack\"><tbody><tr><td><strong><strong><strong>Child age<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><td><strong><strong><strong>Cost considerations<\/strong><\/strong><\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Estimated annual cost<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ages 0-5<\/td><td>Childcare, diapers, startup items<\/td><td>$12,000 \u2013 $21,600<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ages 6-12<\/td><td>School costs, activities, camps<\/td><td>$13,200 \u2013 $22,500<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Ages 13\u201317<\/td><td>Food, clothing, tech, transport<\/td><td>$9,000 \u2013 $14,000<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Post-Secondary<\/td><td>Tuition, housing, books<\/td><td>$14,200 \u2013 $23,700<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-xs-font-size\">*Costs will vary by age of child, province and family choices. <em>Costs are for one child in a two child, 2 parent family with the lowest cost from a lower-income group and the highest from a higher-income group. Source: Statistics Canada, Survey of Household Spending, 2014 to 2017.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-to-build-a-realistic-family-budget\">How to build a realistic family budget<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A family budget works best when it reflects real life. That means accounting for everyday expenses, planning ahead for bigger costs and leaving room for change as your children grow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-fixed-versus-variable-child-related-costs\">Fixed versus variable child-related costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most helpful ways to start is by separating the costs you can predict from the ones that fluctuate. Planning for both makes your budget more resilient and easier to adjust.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Fixed costs<\/strong> include things like childcare expenses and health insurance.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p><strong>Variable expenses<\/strong> tend to be food, activities and clothing, which can change from month to month.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-planning-for-big-expenses\">Planning for big expenses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Summer camp costs, back-to-school expenses and sports registration fees aren\u2019t monthly, but they are somewhat predictable. Planning ahead can reduce stress when the time comes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-adjusting-and-reviewing-your-budget-year-to-year\">Adjusting and reviewing your budget year to year<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Budgets should evolve as children grow. What mattered at age five will likely look very different at fifteen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-budgeting-tips-for-parents-feeling-stretched\">Budgeting tips for parents feeling stretched<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even with careful planning, there are seasons when family finances feel tight. Small adjustments can help ease that pressure without taking away from what makes family life special.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-prioritize-without-cutting-joy\">Prioritize without cutting joy<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Not everything needs to go. But not everything needs to stay, either. It\u2019s worth thinking about what\u2019s most important to your child and your family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-set-limits-on-activities-and-extras\">Set limits on activities and extras<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"h-\">Focus on what your child truly enjoys, not what everyone else is doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-revisit-spending-regularly\">Revisit spending regularly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As children grow, their interests and needs change \u2013 and your spending can evolve with them. That might mean shifting from organized sports outside of school to school-based teams, or rethinking how activities fit into your routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As teens get older, part-time work can also help cover discretionary costs like clothing or technology, giving them more independence while easing pressure on the family budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-budgeting-today-supports-long-term-financial-health\">How budgeting today supports long-term financial health<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The choices you make today don\u2019t just affect this year\u2019s budget \u2013 they shape your family\u2019s financial flexibility over time. Thoughtful planning can help you manage short-term demands while keeping your longer-term goals within reach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-managing-debt\">Managing debt<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Clear planning can help <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/debt-and-stress-relief\/struggling-to-make-ends-meet\/managing-and-consolidating-debt\/how-to-pay-off-debt-faster\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-14cd7b32\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"prevent debt from building\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">prevent debt from building<\/a> during high-cost years. Regularly reviewing balances, interest rates and repayment timelines makes it easier to stay in control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-making-room-for-savings-goals\">Making room for savings goals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>With <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/t1\/tbl1\/en\/tv.action?pid=3710004501\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-03b5d753\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\" the cost of post-secondary education in Canada averaging around $7,700\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">the cost of post-secondary education in Canada averaging around $7,700<\/a> per year (plus living costs), it\u2019s a cost worth planning for well in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) offers a powerful advantage. Through the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/investments\/resp.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-1266e8cc\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Canadian Education Savings Grant\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Canadian Education Savings Grant<\/a>, the government matches 20 per cent of the first $2,500 you save yearly in an RESP, up to a maximum of $500 per year and a lifetime maximum benefit of $7,200 per child.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lower-income families may also qualify for a higher match and may access up to $2,000 to help start their child\u2019s RESP through the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.canada.ca\/en\/revenue-agency\/services\/tax\/individuals\/topics\/registered-education-savings-plans-resps\/canada-education-savings-programs-cesp\/canada-learning-bond.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-c7d008fe\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Canada Learning Bond\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Canada Learning Bond<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-collapsible-accordion accordion\" id=\"&quot;accordionSet1\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-collapsible-panel\"><div class=\"accordion-panel\"><button id=\"accordion-titled32504ad\" class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#accordiond32504ad\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordionSet1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-d32504ad\" aria-controls=\"accordiond32504ad\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"collapsible closed\" data-dig-label=\"What's the average cost to raise a child in Canada?\" action-closed=\"collapsible closed\" action-opened=\"collapsible open\"><div>What&#8217;s the average cost to raise a child in Canada?<\/div><\/button><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"accordiond32504ad\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-titled32504ad\"><div class=\"collapse-inner\">\n<p>On average, the cost of raising a child from birth to age 17 costs roughly $293,000.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-collapsible-panel\"><div class=\"accordion-panel\"><button id=\"accordion-titlee50a4de9\" class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#accordione50a4de9\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordionSet1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-e50a4de9\" aria-controls=\"accordione50a4de9\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"collapsible closed\" data-dig-label=\"What is the most expensive stage of raising a child?\" action-closed=\"collapsible closed\" action-opened=\"collapsible open\"><div>What is the most expensive stage of raising a child?<\/div><\/button><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"accordione50a4de9\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-titlee50a4de9\"><div class=\"collapse-inner\">\n<p>The most expensive stage depends largely on childcare arrangements. For families who pay for childcare, early childhood (ages 0 to 5) is typically the costliest phase. For others, costs may peak later as food, activities, transportation and technology expenses increase.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-collapsible-panel\"><div class=\"accordion-panel\"><button id=\"accordion-title5701c942\" class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#accordion5701c942\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordionSet1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-5701c942\" aria-controls=\"accordion5701c942\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"collapsible closed\" data-dig-label=\"How much will it cost to raise a child born in 2025?\" action-closed=\"collapsible closed\" action-opened=\"collapsible open\"><div>How much will it cost to raise a child born in 2025?<\/div><\/button><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"accordion5701c942\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-title5701c942\"><div class=\"collapse-inner\">\n<p>While exact costs will depend on your location, childcare access and family choices, parents of a child born in 2025 can expect expenses to follow similar patterns to today\u2019s estimates. Adjusted for inflation, total costs are likely to be at or above current averages.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-collapsible-panel\"><div class=\"accordion-panel\"><button id=\"accordion-title4da8a84c\" class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#accordion4da8a84c\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" data-parent=\"#accordionSet1\" aria-expanded=\"false\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-4da8a84c\" aria-controls=\"accordion4da8a84c\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"collapsible closed\" data-dig-label=\"How much should I budget for my baby's first year?\" action-closed=\"collapsible closed\" action-opened=\"collapsible open\"><div>How much should I budget for my baby&#8217;s first year?<\/div><\/button><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"accordion4da8a84c\" role=\"region\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-title4da8a84c\"><div class=\"collapse-inner\">\n<p>Depending on childcare and your family\u2019s lifestyle, the typical range is $12,000 &#8211; $21,600.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting a family is an incredibly exciting time, but it doesn\u2019t come without its share of anxieties. The financial side of having a child can be stressful \u2014 but with the right planning, a few tricks up your sleeve and a strong community you can rely on, you can manage the costs without losing sight of what matters most.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p class=\"has-text-xs-font-size\">1. This figure is based on data from Statistics Canada\u2019s 2014-2017 Survey of Household Spending. While the numbers may have changed slightly due to inflation and recent policy changes, they still provide a reliable benchmark for budgeting purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-xs-font-size\">2. Statistics Canada. Child care arrangements, 2025. <a href=\"https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/daily-quotidien\/251021\/dq251021c-eng.htm\" data-dig-id=\"LP-58161-649d010a\" data-dig-label=\" https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/daily-quotidien\/251021\/dq251021c-eng.htm\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">https:\/\/www150.statcan.gc.ca\/n1\/daily-quotidien\/251021\/dq251021c-eng.htm<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-xs-font-size\">3. Statistics Canada. (2023).&nbsp;<em>Estimating expenditures on children in Canada, 2014\u20132017<\/em>&nbsp;(Catalogue no. 11-627-M). Government of Canada. Data on category shares for food, clothing, childcare, education, healthcare and miscellaneous used to derive proportional cost estimates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group is-vertical is-content-justification-left is-layout-flex wp-container-core-group-is-layout-c0ca7d81 wp-block-group-is-layout-flex\">\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-default-collapsible\"><p><button class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse834a1009\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse834a1009\" data-dig-id=\"LP-57738-834a1009\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"accordion closed\" action-closed=\"accordion closed\" action-opened=\"accordion open\" data-dig-label=\"Things our lawyers want you to know\"><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><\/button><\/p><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"collapse834a1009\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-collapsible-inner-block collapse-inner\">\n<p>This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Raising a child comes with real costs, but fewer surprises when you know what to expect. See how the numbers break down by age and how smart planning can make family finances more manageable.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":10,"featured_media":71828,"parent":57303,"menu_order":0,"template":"wp-custom-template-mmm-sticky-nav","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[522],"rbc_content_type":[31],"rbc_audience":[59],"rbc_lob_group":[154],"rbc_difficulty_level":[33],"rbc_mmm_category":[315,314,356],"class_list":["post-58161","rbc_my_money_matter","type-rbc_my_money_matter","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-family","rbc_content_type-article","rbc_audience-newcomer","rbc_lob_group-newcomer","rbc_difficulty_level-beginner","rbc_mmm_category-finances-and-relationships","rbc_mmm_category-life-events","rbc_mmm_category-parenthood"],"acf":{"contently_publication_id":"360722","custom_author":"Diane Amato","rbc_video_header":"","rbc_media_duration":"","rbc_video_keywords":"","rbc_video_description":"","rbc_video_upload_date":"","rbc_toc_for_mmm_tag":"h2","rbc_toc_for_mmm_limit":6,"rbc_toc_for_mmm":[{"title":"How much does it cost to raise a child in Canada?","url":"#h-how-much-does-it-cost-to-raise-a-child-in-canada"},{"title":"The cost of raising a young child (age 0 \u2013 5)","url":"#h-the-cost-of-raising-a-young-child-age-0-5"},{"title":"The cost of raising a primary school-aged child (age 6 \u2013 12)","url":"#h-the-cost-of-raising-a-primary-school-aged-child-age-6-12"},{"title":"The cost of raising a teenager (age 13 \u2013 17)","url":"#h-the-cost-of-raising-a-teenager-age-13-17"},{"title":"How to build a realistic family budget","url":"#h-how-to-build-a-realistic-family-budget"},{"title":"Budgeting tips for parents feeling stretched","url":"#h-budgeting-tips-for-parents-feeling-stretched"}],"rbc_toc_for_mmm_action":"Generate Table Of Contents"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.2 (Yoast SEO v27.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Raising a child comes with real costs, but fewer surprises when you know what to expect. 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