The Price of Parenthood: CA Meenal Goel Breaks Down the Costs

As conversations around the financial independence and future planning grow, CA Meenal Goel brings to deep light a common concern that many young couples silently carry: “Can we even afford to raise a child?”

Her recent breakdown of the real cost of raising a child in India in 2025 is not just eye-opening, but it's a serious wake-up call for the middle-class families.

The Real Cost of Parenthood in India (2025 Breakdown)-

Ages 0–5 – The Foundational Years
Delivery: Around ₹1.5–2.5 Lakhs

Vaccinations: ₹30,000–₹50,000

Gear, food, and clothing: around ₹3 Lakhs

Daycare & preschool: about ₹2.5 Lakhs
Total: ₹7–8 Lakhs

Ages 6–17 – School & the Learning Phase
School fees: around ₹12 Lakhs (₹1 Lakh/year)

Tuition/Coaching: ₹3 Lakhs

Gadgets, activities, and uniforms: ₹2 Lakhs
Total: around ₹17 Lakhs

Ages 18–22 – College & Independence
College tuition: about ₹10 Lakhs

Hostel, food, and misc.: ₹3 Lakhs
Total: about ₹13 Lakhs

Grand Total for One Child:

₹38–45 Lakhs
Yes, this is just for one child in a typical middle-class household.

Why This Matters-

In a country where family is much central to culture, financial anxiety is already becoming a key factor in the major decision to have children. 

Meenal highlights how the transparent money conversations, especially around the long-term financial goals, are very crucial, not just taboo.

“They weren't wrong to be scared. The real numbers are very high, and no one really talks about it.” says CA Meenal Goel

What You Can Do-

Plan very early. Start a child education fund as soon as it's possible.

Re-evaluate the outdated financial products like the endowment plans.

Invest much smartly in inflation-beating instruments like the mutual funds and SIPs.

Consider the term insurance and health coverage to greatly secure the future risks.

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