How Much Does a Newborn Cost: Everything You Need to Know
A question every family should be asking before bringing a new child into the world is how much does a newborn cost? Of course, we all already know that having a child is expensive, but what are the costs when you take your new bundle of joy home?
With so many variables, it can be hard to tell exactly what you might spend. That’s why we put together this guide to help you figure out the cost of having a newborn in Rhode Island.
Total Cost of Having a Newborn
According to studies, giving birth, and raising a newborn to age one in Rhode Island, costs just over $20,000. This factors in an increase in rent for having another person in the home, as well as infant childcare and childbirth costs for that first year.
However, it’s important to note these are just basic necessities and don’t consider other factors that go into having a child.
Essential Newborn Costs
Some of the reasons people underestimate how much a newborn costs is because they only look at the medical or hospital bills. They don’t always take into consideration the extra things infants need to be safe and thrive.
Car Seat
Planning to take your newborn home from the hospital? Having a car seat is essential to keep your new bundle of joy safe and protected on their first ride home.
Car seats tend to cost between $80, to $400.
Stroller
A stroller is one of the safest ways to get around outside with your newborn. Especially when they’re still young and can’t support their own neck, it’s vital to get a stroller to ensure they’re secured as you travel around.
A stroller can cost anywhere between $100 to $1,000.
Crib, Bassinet, Sleeping Area
Your baby needs somewhere safe to sleep. So whether you’re planning to have them sleep in a crib or bassinet, you need to make sure you have one that’s age appropriate for your infant.
A safe sleeping area can cost somewhere between $70 - $650.
Baby Monitor
As much as you might want to be with your infant 24/7, it’s just not possible. That’s where a baby monitor comes in. You don’t have to get the fanciest baby monitor on the market with a video, either. Save costs by getting an audio-only monitor.
At the very least, you can spend $25 on a monitor. If you’re looking for more bells and whistles, expect to spend up to $400.
Safe Spot for Your Baby
It’s unreasonable to expect to hold your infant at all times. That’s where a baby swing, mat, or cushion to set your infant down while you’re near.
This would cost as little as $30, up to $150 depending on your needs.
Diapers
Unless you’re using reusable diapers, expect to spend a little bit of extra money here.
For the first year of your infant's life, expect to spend between $600 - $1,000.
Food and Breast Feeding Accessories
Whether you’re using formula or breastfeeding, there is a cost associated with this.
A year's worth of baby formula is around $1,200 - $1,500.
Breast pumps can cost between $25 to $500.
Bottles can cost between $2 - $12 each.
Clothing
Babies grow so, so fast. If you can, the best thing for children's clothing is to accept every hand-me-down you can (washing before wearing, of course.) This is also one of the best things to put on a baby registry as a low-cost gift from those who wouldn’t be likely to buy you a stroller.
Additional Newborn Care Costs
We know the decision for what you should and should spend extra money on is hard, but getting extra newborn care is something every mother deserves. Unfortunately, many parents don’t factor in childcare costs outside of paying for daycare because they don’t think they’re available.
Be sure to consider all your options when it comes to getting the care you, your infant, and your family deserve.
To see more pricing information for each of these services, be sure to check out our postpartum doula pricing guide.
Overnight Infant Care
An overnight nanny provides everything you and your newborn needs while you get the sleep you deserve. We all know infants need to be fed every 1 to 3 hours, which means right after giving birth, you won’t be getting a full night's rest for some time.
That’s just one of the reasons why we believe overnight infant care is essential for every single family. See what else an overnight care nanny can do for you.
Sleep Training Services
Once your infant is a little older, consider investing in some sleep training services. Our gentle approach to sleep training works with you and your family's need to help everyone get a better night's sleep.
If you’re considering sleep training, be sure to review our guide for finding a sleep training program that works for you and your family.
Lactation Consulting
You might need lactation consulting for many reasons, so be sure to consider this cost when having a newborn. Depending on your specific needs, the costs with vary, so many sure to reach out to get more information so we can help you.
Twin or Multiple Infant Expenses
Having twins or multiple children doesn’t always double or triple the price of the services you need. In many cases, places will offer discounts for extra care. However, other things like car seats, or beds cannot be shared between the newborns.
If you’re having twins, be sure to budget extra money for each category so you’re not surprised by the expenses.
How Much Does a Newborn Cost? Now You Know!
Next time someone asks you how much does a newborn cost, now you’ll be able to answer! However, if you have a hard time deciding what you truly need, then consider contacting Baby Bloom Newborn Care for help.
We offer a free 15-minute consultation where we’d be more than happy to discuss the services we provide and what we can do for you. As your newborn care specialist, we go beyond taking care of your infant. We’ll also help with nursery recommendations, what to add to your baby registry, and so much more.
Don’t wait any longer to get the care you and your family deserves. Reach out, and let us help you today!