Cost of a baby in the first year
The first year of a baby adds up across a big one-off (pram, cot, car seat) plus recurring feeding, nappy and clothing costs, with childcare the largest variable for many families. BabyData itemises the typical UK cost of each choice you make so you can see the total and a rough monthly figure. The figures are indicative ranges, not a quote, and buying equipment second-hand is the single biggest saving. The fuller picture of what a child costs over time is researched each year by the Child Poverty Action Group.
Estimate the first year
An itemised first-year estimate from your own choices, in typical UK costs.
How this is worked out
The total adds up the typical UK cost of each choice you make for a baby's first year:
First year = equipment + feeding + nappies + clothing and extras + childcare
The figures are indicative UK ranges, not a quote. Equipment is the big one-off (pram, cot, car seat), and buying second-hand or accepting hand-me-downs cuts it sharply. Feeding and nappy costs are recurring and depend heavily on method. Childcare is the largest variable for many families and is entered separately so you can use your own quote or our childcare cost dashboard.
An indicative estimate, not financial advice. The fuller picture of what a child costs is researched each year by the Child Poverty Action Group. Your own costs will vary with where you live and the choices you make.
Names and Family Data Desk, BabyData
BabyData's editorial desk builds and documents the tools, citing the underlying rule and the official UK dataset behind every number. Pregnancy-related tools are editorially reviewed against NHS and gov.uk guidance before publication.
Last reviewed: 12 June 2026