Raising a child in Italy now costs between €107,000 and €205,000 up to the age of 18, with an average of €156,000—over €8,500 a year. The figures come from a Moneyfarm study, which reports a 12% increase since 2022, exceeding inflation.
The rising cost mirrors Italy’s falling birth rate: in 2024 only 370,000 children were born, compared to 390,000 in 2022. Alongside expenses, the lack of strong family policies further discourages parenthood.
The government plans to introduce a family quotient system to adjust tax deductions and create benefits for young couples, Deputy Economy Minister Maurizio Leo confirmed.
In major cities, the challenge is sharper: in Rome costs are 20% above the national average, in Milan 30%, while household incomes often fall short of €35,000 a year.
According to Moneyfarm, expenses peak between ages 15 and 18, exceeding €11,700 annually. Food alone can cost more than €40,000 during a child’s first 18 years.