Birth to 18, by city and category — 2026 modeled estimates you can actually plan with.
Raising a child is one of the biggest financial commitments a family makes. Using our 2026 modeled estimates for a moderate lifestyle, public education, and one child from birth to age 18, here are the numbers parents actually ask about.
Across 10 major global cities, the total runs from about $180,000 in Tokyo to $380,000 in New York (USD, moderate public single child, birth to 18). The wide spread is driven mostly by housing and education differences between cities.
Housing is the largest category — about 18%–30% of the total, mostly from needing an extra bedroom. Education is next (12%–22%, and far higher if you choose private school), followed by food and healthcare. See the full 8-category breakdown on our methodology page.
No. These are birth-to-18 estimates. University (age 18–22) is a separate, optional add-on that varies enormously by country and institution.
They are 2026 modeled estimates built on publicly available cost-of-living data — planning ranges, not quotes. Your real cost depends on neighborhood, income, and the choices you make.
Across 10 major cities, a moderate public single child costs about $180,000 to $380,000 USD from birth to age 18, driven mainly by housing and education differences.
Housing is the largest category (about 18%–30% of the total), followed by education (12%–22%, much higher if private).
No — these are birth-to-18 estimates. University (age 18–22) is a separate optional cost.
They are 2026 modeled estimates for planning, not quotes. Real costs vary by neighborhood, income, and choices.
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