It's the opportunity cost (how much income are you giving up by having kids), not the absolute income. Also, people at lower incomes have subsidies, so cost of

It's the opportunity cost (how much income are you giving up by having kids), not the absolute income. Also, people at lower incomes have subsidies, so cost of children can be different. For example - in VT, if your income < 150% FPL (federal poverty level), you pay $0 towards child care (versus some people paying > $2000/month in places like NY) https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/DCF/Shared%20Documents/Benefits/CCFAP-Income-Guidelines-Effective-2.26.2023.pdf https://outside.vermont.gov/dept/DCF/Shared%20Documents/Bene... If you calculate opportunity cost, the cost of a child increases dramatically as you go up the income ladder. From tens of thousands of dollars to hundreds (in income missed) or even millions (if you take time off + pay for your kid's schooling in private academies)