How rising expenses affect decisions on starting a family

A study by Securian Financial highlights the significant impact of rising economic factors on family planning among younger Americans. The cost of raising a child has increased by 42 percent from 2011 to 2023, while childcare costs alone have risen by 22 percent from 2020 to 2024. In contrast, average wages have only increased by 17.4 percent since 2021, leading many young Americans to feel financially burdened and discouraged from having children.