The True Cost of Raising a Family in America—And Why It’s Only Getting Worse

The Middle Class Squeeze: Can You Even Afford a Family Anymore? For decades, Americans believed that if they worked hard, they could afford a home, raise a family, and retire with dignity. That reality is slipping further out of reach every year. According to the latest Consumer Expenditure Survey, a family of four now needs six figures just to survive in 26 states. In Hawaii, that number soars to an eye-watering $259,000 per year. That’s right—over a quarter of a million dollars just to cover the basics: housing, food, utilities, healthcare, and transportation. And while Hawaii tops the list, the problem is nationwide. Massachusetts, California, and New York all demand a minimum of $150,000 per year to sustain a family.…