Cost of Raising a Child in Singapore 2026: Complete Breakdown
The estimated cost of raising a child in Singapore from birth to age 18 is approximately $237,600 — averaging about $13,200 per year. The biggest cost drivers are childcare and infant care in the first four years (~$23,700/year), followed by enrichment and tuition during school years. Government support through the Baby Bonus, childcare subsidies, and other schemes can offset $50,000–$80,000+ of this total.
Cost Overview: Birth to Age 18
How much does it really cost to raise a child in Singapore? It is one of the first questions new and expecting parents ask — and the answer depends heavily on the choices you make at every stage.
Based on data from the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA), and published research by Dollars & Sense and HoneyKids, the estimated total cost of raising one child from birth to age 18 in Singapore is approximately $237,600.
This figure assumes a middle-income family using a mix of public and subsidised services. The actual number can range from under $150,000 (with maximum subsidies and a frugal approach) to well over $500,000 (private education, premium childcare, and extensive enrichment).
| Life Stage | Age Range | Estimated Annual Cost | Subtotal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy & Delivery | One-time | — | $5,500–$25,000 |
| Baby Gear & Setup | One-time | — | $2,000–$8,000 |
| Infant & Toddler Years | 0–4 years | ~$23,700/year | ~$94,800 |
| Schooling Years | 5–18 years | ~$9,500/year | ~$133,000 |
| Estimated Total (Birth to 18) | ~$237,600 | ||
Let us break down each cost category in detail so you know exactly where the money goes — and where you can save.
Pregnancy & Delivery: $5,500–$25,000
The cost of having a baby in Singapore varies enormously based on whether you choose a public or private hospital, the type of delivery, and the ward class. For a detailed hospital-by-hospital comparison, see our hospital delivery cost guide.
Prenatal Care
Regular prenatal check-ups, blood tests, and scans typically cost:
- Public hospital/polyclinic: $1,000–$2,500 for the full pregnancy (subsidised rates for citizens)
- Private obstetrician: $2,000–$5,000+ (includes all consultations and scans)
Hospital Delivery Costs
| Setting | Normal Delivery | C-Section |
|---|---|---|
| Public Hospital — C Ward | $4,000–$5,500 | $6,000–$9,000 |
| Public Hospital — B2 Ward | $5,500–$8,000 | $8,000–$12,000 |
| Public Hospital — B1/A Ward | $8,000–$13,000 | $12,000–$18,000 |
| Private Hospital | $12,000–$18,000 | $15,000–$25,000+ |
MediSave for Delivery
You can use MediSave to cover part of the delivery costs:
- Normal delivery: Up to $900 from MediSave
- C-section: Up to $1,350 from MediSave
For more on insurance coverage during pregnancy, read our guide on maternity insurance and MediShield in Singapore.
Baby Gear & Setup: $2,000–$8,000 (One-Time)
Before your baby arrives, you will need to set up the nursery and buy essential gear. This is a one-time cost that can be managed significantly through hand-me-downs and second-hand purchases.
| Item | Budget Option | Mid-Range | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby cot & mattress | $100–$200 | $300–$600 | $800–$1,500 |
| Stroller | $150–$300 | $400–$800 | $1,000–$2,000+ |
| Car seat | $100–$200 | $250–$500 | $500–$1,000 |
| Baby carrier/sling | $50–$100 | $150–$250 | $250–$400 |
| Breast pump | $50–$100 | $200–$400 | $400–$700 |
| Bottles, steriliser, warmer | $50–$100 | $150–$300 | $300–$500 |
| Newborn clothing (first 6 months) | $100–$200 | $200–$400 | $400–$800 |
| Bathing, grooming & misc | $50–$100 | $100–$200 | $200–$400 |
| Total One-Time Setup | ~$650–$1,300 | ~$1,750–$3,450 | ~$3,850–$7,300 |
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Claim Free Gift →Infant Care (2–18 Months): $40–$740/Month After Subsidies
Infant care is one of the most expensive phases. Centres licensed by ECDA accept babies from as young as 2 months old. Costs vary dramatically based on the type of operator and your household income.
Monthly Infant Care Costs (Full-Day)
| Operator Type | Fee Cap (Before Subsidy) | Basic Subsidy | Max Additional Subsidy | Min Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchor Operator | $1,275/month | $600 | $710 | $40/month |
| Partner Operator | $1,415/month | $600 | $710 | $105/month |
| Non-Anchor/Private | $1,800–$3,000+ | $600 | $710 | $490–$1,690+ |
For most middle-income families using an Anchor Operator, expect to pay $340–$740/month after subsidies. Combined with diapers, formula, and paediatrician visits, the total monthly cost during the infant phase is approximately $900–$1,800/month.
For the full breakdown of infant care and childcare subsidies, see our childcare subsidy guide for 2026.
Additional Monthly Costs During Infancy
- Diapers: $50–$80/month (newborns use 8–12 diapers/day)
- Formula: $50–$100/month (if not exclusively breastfeeding)
- Paediatrician visits: $50–$150/visit (vaccinations are heavily subsidised at polyclinics)
- Confinement nanny (optional): $2,500–$4,500 for 28 days
For first-time parents considering a confinement nanny, read our confinement guide for Singapore.
Childcare (18 Months to 6 Years): $3–$310/Month After Subsidies
Once your child moves from infant care to childcare (typically around 18 months), costs decrease significantly — especially after government subsidies.
Monthly Childcare Costs (Full-Day)
| Operator Type | Fee Cap (Before Subsidy) | Basic Subsidy | Max Additional Subsidy | Min Out-of-Pocket |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Anchor Operator | $610/month | $300 | $467 | $3/month |
| Partner Operator | $650/month | $300 | $467 | $43/month |
| Non-Anchor/Private | $1,000–$2,500+ | $300 | $467 | $233–$1,733+ |
For a middle-income family at an Anchor Operator, monthly childcare fees after subsidies typically range from $160–$310. This is a significant drop from infant care costs.
Food & Nutrition: $150–$400/Month
Food costs evolve as your child grows, starting with formula and progressing to regular meals:
| Age | Primary Food Costs | Monthly Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| 0–6 months | Breastmilk (free) or formula | $0–$100 |
| 6–12 months | Formula + purees & solids | $100–$200 |
| 1–3 years | Growing-up milk + meals | $150–$300 |
| 4–6 years | Regular meals + snacks | $200–$350 |
| 7–12 years | School meals + home meals | $200–$400 |
| 13–18 years | School meals + increased appetite | $250–$400 |
Most childcare centres include meals in their fees, which helps during the preschool years. Once children enter primary school, pocket money for school meals averages $2–$4 per day ($40–$80/month).
Healthcare & Insurance: $100–$300/Month
Healthcare is a ongoing cost that covers regular check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, and insurance premiums.
Vaccinations
Singapore has a National Childhood Immunisation Schedule (NCIS). At polyclinics, most vaccinations for Singapore Citizens are subsidised and cost around $10–$30 per visit. At private paediatricians, the same vaccinations can cost $80–$200 per visit. Read our child vaccination schedule guide for the full timeline.
Insurance
Key insurance policies for children include:
- MediShield Life: Automatic coverage from birth (premiums payable from MediSave, ~$130/year for children)
- Integrated Shield Plan (IP): $200–$600+/year (optional upgrade for private hospital coverage)
- Life/critical illness insurance: $50–$150/month (optional but recommended)
- Personal accident insurance: $10–$30/month
Typical Monthly Healthcare Breakdown
- Insurance premiums: $60–$200/month
- Regular GP/dental visits: $20–$50/month (averaged)
- Medications & supplements: $20–$50/month
Total average: $100–$300/month depending on the level of insurance coverage you choose.
Primary School Years (Age 7–12): $500–$1,500+/Month
Primary school education for Singapore Citizens is free — there are no school fees. However, the ancillary costs can add up quickly.
Primary School Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| School fees | $0 | Free for Singapore Citizens |
| Miscellaneous school fees | $6.50–$13 | Standard and 2nd tier misc fees |
| School supplies & books | $20–$35 | ~$200–$400/year |
| Uniforms | $10–$15 | ~$100–$200/year |
| Transport (school bus or public) | $50–$150 | School bus: $100–$150; public: $30–$50 |
| School meals & pocket money | $60–$100 | $3–$5/day |
| Student care (after-school) | $150–$400 | Optional; subsidies available |
| Enrichment & tuition | $200–$500+ | See enrichment section |
| Total | $500–$1,200+ | — |
The single biggest cost during primary school is enrichment and tuition, which we break down in detail below.
Secondary School Years (Age 13–16/18): $600–$2,000+/Month
Secondary school fees for Singapore Citizens are minimal at $5/month, but other costs increase as children grow and academic demands rise.
Secondary School Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| School fees | $5 | For Singapore Citizens |
| Miscellaneous school fees | $10–$20 | Standard and 2nd tier |
| School supplies, books & devices | $30–$50 | Includes personal learning device |
| Transport | $50–$150 | Student concession pass: ~$25.50/month |
| Food & pocket money | $100–$200 | $5–$10/day |
| Enrichment & tuition | $300–$1,000+ | Often higher than primary level |
| CCA-related expenses | $30–$100 | Equipment, camps, competitions |
| Mobile phone & data plan | $20–$50 | Most teens have their own phone |
| Total | $600–$1,600+ | — |
Costs can escalate significantly in the upper secondary and JC/poly years, particularly if intensive tuition is added for O-Level or A-Level preparation.
Enrichment & Tuition: $200–$1,000+/Month
Enrichment and tuition is often the single largest ongoing expense in a child's education journey in Singapore. According to the Household Expenditure Survey, Singaporean families spend an average of $112/month per student on tuition alone — but many families spend significantly more.
Enrichment Classes (Non-Academic)
| Activity | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Swimming lessons | $80–$200 |
| Music lessons (piano, violin, etc.) | $150–$350 |
| Art classes | $100–$250 |
| Coding/robotics | $150–$300 |
| Martial arts / dance | $80–$200 |
| Speech & drama | $100–$250 |
Academic Tuition
| Level | Group Tuition (per subject) | Private 1-to-1 (per subject) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary (P1–P4) | $100–$200 | $200–$400 |
| Primary (P5–P6 / PSLE) | $150–$300 | $250–$500 |
| Secondary (Sec 1–3) | $150–$300 | $300–$600 |
| Secondary (Sec 4 / O-Level) | $200–$400 | $400–$800 |
| JC (A-Level) | $250–$500 | $400–$1,000+ |
A typical family with one enrichment class and tuition for two subjects might spend $400–$800/month during primary school and $600–$1,200+/month during secondary school.
Miscellaneous Costs: $100–$300/Month
Beyond the major categories, there are many smaller recurring costs that add up over the years:
- Clothing & shoes: $50–$150/month (children outgrow clothes quickly)
- Toys & books: $30–$80/month
- Family outings & activities: $50–$150/month (zoo, aquarium, indoor playgrounds, movies)
- Holidays & travel: $100–$300/month (averaged over the year)
- Birthday parties & gifts: $20–$50/month (averaged; attending others' parties too)
- Haircuts, personal care: $10–$30/month
These costs fluctuate year to year but typically average $100–$300/month over the long run.
Government Support & Subsidies That Offset Costs
Singapore provides substantial government support for families. Here is a summary of the key schemes and how much they can offset:
| Scheme | Amount (1st/2nd Child) | Amount (3rd+ Child) | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Bonus Cash Gift | $11,000 | $13,000 | Full guide |
| CDA Government Co-Matching | $4,000 / $7,000 | $10,000 | Full guide |
| Childcare Subsidies | Up to $767/month | Full guide | |
| Infant Care Subsidies | Up to $1,310/month | Full guide | |
| Child LifeSG Credits (2026) | $500 | Budget 2026 guide | |
| Large Family Scheme | N/A | Up to $16,000 | Budget 2026 guide |
| MediSave for Delivery | Up to $900 (normal) / $1,350 (C-section) | Delivery cost guide | |
| MediSave Grant for Newborns | $4,000 | — | |
Total Government Support (Estimated)
For a first or second child, the total direct government support is approximately $50,000–$70,000 when you factor in the Baby Bonus, CDA matching, childcare subsidies over the preschool years, MediSave grants, and LifeSG credits.
For a third or subsequent child, total support can exceed $80,000+ with the additional Large Family Scheme benefits.
Total Cost Summary: Birth to 18
Here is the complete picture, bringing together every cost category:
| Category | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate | Premium Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pregnancy & delivery | $5,500 | $10,000 | $25,000 |
| Baby gear & setup | $2,000 | $4,000 | $8,000 |
| Childcare/infant care (0–6 yrs) | $30,000 | $60,000 | $120,000+ |
| Food & nutrition (0–18 yrs) | $32,000 | $50,000 | $75,000 |
| Healthcare & insurance (0–18 yrs) | $21,000 | $36,000 | $60,000 |
| Enrichment & tuition (4–18 yrs) | $25,000 | $60,000 | $150,000+ |
| Transport (4–18 yrs) | $8,000 | $15,000 | $25,000 |
| Miscellaneous (clothing, toys, outings) | $20,000 | $40,000 | $65,000 |
| GROSS TOTAL | ~$143,500 | ~$275,000 | ~$528,000+ |
| Less: Government support | ($50,000–$70,000) | ($50,000–$70,000) | ($50,000–$70,000) |
| NET TOTAL (estimate) | ~$74,000–$94,000 | ~$205,000–$225,000 | ~$458,000–$478,000+ |
The often-cited figure of $237,600 falls squarely in the mid-range scenario — a family using subsidised childcare, public schooling, moderate enrichment, and sensible spending on daily needs.
Tips to Reduce the Cost of Raising a Child
While you cannot eliminate costs entirely, there are practical ways to keep them manageable:
1. Maximise Government Subsidies
- Apply for the Baby Bonus immediately after birth
- Use an Anchor Operator for childcare to get the lowest fee caps
- Check if you qualify for Additional Subsidies based on household income
- Use CDA funds for approved medical and childcare expenses
2. Be Strategic with Childcare
- Anchor Operators (PCF, NTUC My First Skool) offer the lowest fees
- Consider grandparent or family care for the first 18 months to avoid expensive infant care
- Some employers offer childcare subsidies — check your company benefits
3. Manage Enrichment Spending
- Focus on one or two activities your child genuinely enjoys rather than signing up for everything
- Community centres (CCs) offer enrichment classes at 30–50% less than private centres
- Consider group tuition over private 1-to-1 for significant savings
- Free online resources (Khan Academy, YouTube tutorials) can supplement formal tuition
4. Save on Everyday Costs
- Buy second-hand baby gear, clothes, and books on Carousell or at flea markets
- Accept and pass along hand-me-downs from friends and family
- Use the National Library for children's books instead of buying new
- Cook at home and meal-prep to reduce food costs
- Take advantage of free family activities — parks, playgrounds, Gardens by the Bay Children's Garden, and community events
5. Plan Insurance Wisely
- MediShield Life provides baseline coverage at low cost
- Avoid over-insuring — assess actual needs rather than buying every plan
- Compare premiums across insurers before committing to integrated shield plans
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to raise a child in Singapore from birth to 18?
The estimated total cost of raising a child in Singapore from birth to age 18 is approximately $237,600 for a mid-range scenario. This includes pregnancy and delivery ($5,500–$25,000), infant and toddler care (~$23,700/year for the first 4 years), and schooling years (~$9,500/year from age 5 to 18). Government subsidies and the Baby Bonus can offset $50,000–$80,000+ of this total, bringing the net cost down to approximately $167,000–$188,000.
How much does childcare cost in Singapore per month?
Before subsidies, full-day childcare at Anchor Operators (e.g. PCF, NTUC My First Skool) is capped at $610/month, and at Partner Operators at $650/month. After the Basic Subsidy of $300 and Additional Subsidy of up to $467, out-of-pocket costs at Anchor Operators can be as low as $3/month for lower-income families, or around $310/month for middle-income families. (Source: ECDA)
How much does infant care cost in Singapore?
Infant care (2–18 months) at Anchor Operators is capped at $1,275/month before subsidies. After the Basic Subsidy of $600 and Additional Subsidy of up to $710, out-of-pocket costs can range from $40/month to $740/month depending on household income. At private centres, costs can exceed $1,800–$3,000/month before subsidies.
How much is the Baby Bonus in Singapore 2026?
For the 1st and 2nd child, the Baby Bonus Cash Gift is $11,000 each, with CDA government co-matching of up to $4,000 for the 1st child and $7,000 for the 2nd child. For the 3rd and subsequent children, the Cash Gift is $13,000 each with CDA co-matching of up to $10,000. The total Baby Bonus package (Cash Gift + CDA matching) ranges from $15,000 to $23,000+ per child. See our Baby Bonus 2026 guide for the full breakdown.
Is primary school free in Singapore?
Yes, primary school fees are $0 for Singapore Citizens. However, there are still costs for miscellaneous school fees ($6.50–$13/month), school supplies ($200–$400/year), uniforms ($100–$200/year), transport ($50–$150/month), food ($60–$100/month), and enrichment or tuition ($200–$500+/month). Total monthly costs during primary school typically range from $500 to $1,200+.
How much does enrichment and tuition cost in Singapore?
Enrichment classes typically cost $80–$350/month per activity (e.g. swimming, music, coding). Academic tuition ranges from $100–$300/month per subject for group primary tuition, $150–$400/month for secondary group tuition, and $200–$1,000+/month for private 1-to-1 tuition. Many families spend $400–$1,000+ per month on enrichment and tuition combined.
How much does it cost to deliver a baby in Singapore?
Hospital delivery costs range from $5,500–$8,000 at a public hospital (B2/C ward, normal delivery) to $15,000–$25,000+ at a private hospital. C-section deliveries cost more. MediSave can be used to cover up to $900 for normal delivery or $1,350 for C-section. See our hospital delivery cost guide for detailed hospital-by-hospital comparisons.
What government subsidies help with the cost of raising a child in Singapore?
Singapore provides substantial government support including: Baby Bonus Cash Gift (up to $11,000–$13,000), CDA matching (up to $4,000–$10,000), childcare subsidies (up to $767/month), infant care subsidies (up to $1,310/month), Child LifeSG Credits ($500 in 2026), Large Family Scheme (up to $16,000 for 3rd+ child), MediSave for delivery (up to $900–$1,350), and MediSave Grant for Newborns ($4,000). Combined, government support can cover $50,000–$80,000+ of the total cost of raising a child.
Last Updated: 23 February 2026
Sources:
ECDA — Infant & Childcare Subsidy Scheme,
Singapore Budget 2026 Statement,
LifeSG — Large Families Scheme,
MSF — Baby Bonus Scheme,
Dollars & Sense,
MOE — School Fees