USDA: Cost of Raising a Child Increased by $8,000

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.