Affording children?

Question

My husband and I have been married for almost 10 years and have owned our own home for 3 years. We really feel ready for children now. We have just over $1000 after all our expenses each month... is that enough to have a child?

Answer 1

Well, it could be. Just think about the mortgage and other bills. But you sound ready in general. Just remember that the baby comes first!

         Good Luck for whatever you decide!



          Mommy of 3 and baby on the way!

Answer 2

You've also got to factor in any income that will be lost when you go on maternity leave to have the baby, if you work. Kids are expensive, you can make it work on 1000 months. But honestly you shouldn't let money hold you back unless your just that broke because you will never truly be financially ready for kids.

Answer 3

Remember that babies are inexpensive until they get older and start doing stuff at school.  My biggest baby expense was $300 for a cloth diaper package that included EVERYTHING i needed to diaper my baby's butt until potty training.

Crib, table, etc was all second hand off craigslist (great condition, too :)) or a hand-me-down from family.

I guess i spent $150 on slings for my husband and i.  But still - Babies are cheap.  Breast milk is free.  Education is expensive!

Answer 4

Well if I can live on what my husband brings home then you can too. Its all in how good of shopper you are. If you have self control and are willing to make some sacrifices then yes I would say that is definitely enough. The old saying goes "if you wait to have children when you can afford them, then you never will" I am not saying have children on purpose when you have no Money I am just saying if you can pay your bills and have money left over then you can afford a child, it all in how you do things. Good Luck!