Staying Healthy Parents News Now USDA: Cost of Raising a Child Increased by $8,000 By Holly Lebowitz Rossi Published on June 15, 2012 Share Tweet Pin Email So why do babies born in 2011 cost so much more?In that one year alone, expenses for transportation, child care, education and food surged for middle-income families. Health care, clothing and housing costs also increased, but at a more gradual pace.In the study, the government defined middle-income families as those with $59,000 to $103,000 in annual income before taxes. Image: Family eating dinner, via Shutterstock. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Tell us why! Other Submit