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Bringing a new baby into the world is an incredible experience, but it also comes with real financial planning. Whether you’re a first-time parent or expanding your family, understanding the cost of having a baby in the first year can help you prepare for what’s ahead and ease some of the stress that comes with new beginnings
At Nightingale Night Nurses, we work closely with growing families and know that a little planning goes a long way. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the typical baby expenses you can expect in year one, so you can focus less on finances and more on bonding with your newborn. We recognize that all families budget differently and can cost much more or less.
How Much Does a Baby Cost in the First Year?
According to recent estimates, the average cost of raising a baby in the first year can range from $10,000 to $25,000+, depending on your lifestyle, location, and childcare needs.
Let’s break it down into key categories so you can plan with confidence.
1. Medical Expenses (Birth & Postnatal Care)
Estimated Cost: $500–$5,000+ (with insurance)
This includes:
- Prenatal visits and ultrasounds
- Labor and delivery charges (hospital, midwife, or birthing center)
- Postnatal care and pediatric check-ups
Tip: Even with insurance, you may owe a portion of delivery and hospital costs. Review your plan’s out-of-pocket maximum early on.
2. Baby Gear and Essentials
Estimated Cost: $1,500–$4,000+
Initial larger purchases often include:
- Crib or bassinet
- Car seat
- Stroller
- Baby monitor
- Diaper bag
- Baby carrier
- Bottles and feeding supplies
These expenses can vary widely! Some parents choose to thrift most of these items, some get large purchases through a baby shower, while others choose to go all out and purchase from luxury brands.
3. Diapers and Wipes
Estimated Cost: $600–$1,200/year
Newborns go through about 8–12 diapers a day. Whether you use disposable or cloth, it adds up fast! Cloth is cheaper in the long-run but includes additional labor and a higher up front cost.
4. Feeding Costs (Formula, Breastfeeding Supplies, or Both)
Estimated Cost: $0–$2,500/year
- Formula-fed babies can cost around $75–$150/month depending on the brand
- Breastfeeding can be free, but pump equipment, storage bags, and nursing supplies add up and parents often need to purchase nipple cream, pumping bras, nipple pads, supplements and other supplies. [Along with the cost of food with increased caloric intake].
- You might also want to invest in a lactation consultant, especially early on
5. Childcare or In-Home Support
Estimated Cost: $5,000–$80,000/year
Childcare is one of the biggest baby-related expenses:
- Daycare: $800–$3,000/month in many cities
- Nannies or in-home care. Higher rates than daycare, but more personalized.
- Professional newborn care, like that provided by Nightingale Night Nurses, gives families critical rest during those early months. Many parents choose to invest early on in their sleep for the months and years to come.
Pro tip: Some families budget for professional support only in the first 6–12 weeks, during the most sleep-deprived phase. Being functional to go back to work after maternity/paternity leave can be priceless.
6. Clothing and Baby Supplies
Estimated Cost: $300–$600/year
Babies grow quickly! You’ll need to refresh wardrobes every few months. Also factor in swaddles, socks, hats, and seasonal wear. Baby clothes are the easiest to get secondhand, and also what people love to gift the most!
7. Health & Safety Products
Estimated Cost: $100–$500/year
Includes:
- Baby thermometer
- Infant first aid kit
- Humidifier
- Babyproofing items (outlet covers, cabinet locks)
8. Extras: Classes, Keepsakes, and Self-Care
Estimated Cost: Varies
- Infant CPR, parenting or babywearing classes
- Photoshoots or milestone keepsakes
- Postpartum recovery tools or therapy
- Giant miscellaneous [You never know with newborns]
These might not be “essential,” but they can make the first year more joyful and supported.
Tips to Create a Baby Budget That Works for You
- Start early. Even a simple spreadsheet or budgeting app can help track expenses.
- Separate “must-haves” vs. “nice-to-haves.”
- Register strategically—prioritize high-impact, high-use items.
- Plan for flexibility. Life with a baby is unpredictable, so build in wiggle room.
Don’t Forget to Budget for Your Sleep and Sanity
Many new parents budget for nursery furniture and onesies—but forget to plan for what they’ll need most: rest.
Shameless plug! At Nightingale Night Nurses, we offer overnight newborn care from trained and experienced specialists, so you can recover, recharge, and bond with your baby from a place of strength. Whether it’s a few nights a week or full-time 24/7 support, investing in help during the early days can make all the difference—for your health, your baby’s well-being, and your family’s foundation.
Final Thoughts: Preparing for Baby Without the Overwhelm
Yes, babies come with expenses. But with a thoughtful budget and the right support team, the first year can be filled with more peace and fewer financial surprises.
Need help planning for postpartum care or curious about how overnight support could fit into your baby budget? Contact Nightingale Night Nurses today for a consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
