According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s latest report, “Expenditures on Children and Families,” a middle-income family with a child born in 2013 can expect to spend approximately $245,340 for food, housing, childcare and education, and other expenses up to age 18. This is an increase of 1.8% compared to 2012. 

Housing costs are the largest expenditure averaging 30% of the total cost. Child care and education is the second largest expense at 18%. Food represents 16% of the total cost. The report was first issued in 1960 when a middle-income family could expect to spend $25,230 ($198,560 in 2013 dollars).