New Analysis Ranks Hawaii as Most Expensive State to Raise a Child

A recent analysis found that the cost of raising a child through age 18 in the U.S. is $303,418, representing a 1.9% increase from the prior year's report. The report also found that Hawaii is the most expensive state to raise a child, while Alaska ranks as the second most expensive state. The cost of housing was cited as the biggest driver of the increase, with extra rent rising 48.9% to $1,680 annually.

The figures indicate that the cost of raising a child has climbed significantly, with the 18-year total up 27.8% since the first report. The cost difference between states can swing the total bill by $210,000, highlighting regional disparities in living expenses.