The 10 most and 10 least expensive cities to own a home and pay for childcare
This report analyzes the financial burden of housing and childcare costs across the 100 most populous US metropolitan areas. It highlights that in some regions, these combined expenses consume over 90% of a family's income.
Why it matters
It underscores the economic strain on families and the complex trade-offs required when choosing where to live and work in the current economy.
Childcare and housing costs can exceed 90% of a family's income in some metros. dusanpetkovic/Getty Images Nationally, families spend 52% of their income on childcare and housing costs combined. In some metros, that share exceeds 90%, while in others, it's below 50%. In areas where paychecks are higher, costs are also often higher. Buying a home already comes with plenty to consider, like price and location, but if you have children or plan to start a family, childcare should also be part of the equation. Some parents pay upward of $45,000 a year in childcare , and while a lot of that has to do with the quality of childcare, a big part of the price also depends on where you're located.
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