The cost of raising children in 2009?

In 2009, the cost of raising a child from birth to age 18 was estimated to be around $222,000 for a middle-income family in the United States, excluding college expenses. This figure included costs such as housing, food, childcare, education, healthcare, and other necessities. The expenses varied significantly based on factors like geographic location and family income. Overall, the financial commitment of raising children remained a substantial consideration for families during that time.