Navigating the first year of parenting expenses presents a steep learning curve, though many families quickly adapt by using hand-me-downs or identifying which items are truly essential. Cultural practices also vary widely. Norms taken for granted in the US and UK, such as separate bedrooms or using a pram, are unusual in other parts of the world.
To assist families relocating or working abroad, financial services provider Remitly compiled a cross-category list of first-year baby items based on US norms. Researchers manually gathered prices from local baby shops, supermarkets, and online pharmacies across more than 90 countries.
Category totals were converted to USD to analyse global pricing and assess affordability relative to average local incomes. Medical and birth costs were excluded from the scope of the study.
Global affordability and regional contrasts
The study reveals that a full set of first-year essentials ranges from $1,720 in Pakistan – $8,879 in Uzbekistan.
In the US, purchasing the entire list of items totals $5,150. This represents 6.8% of the national average income of $75,275, making the US the fourth most affordable country relative to earnings, even though 49 nations offer lower absolute price totals.
Conversely, parents in Uzbekistan face the highest total cost at $8,879. This equals 177% of the average local annual salary of $5,028. The study notes that while calculations rely on Western norms such as cribs, babies in Uzbekistan and Central Asia traditionally sleep in a handcrafted rocking cradle known as a beshik.
Formula and feeding costs
Calculations for baby formula were based on six months of Stage 1 (0–6 months) formula, followed by six months of Stage 2 formula.
- UK market. The UK ranks eighth cheapest globally for formula at $759 (£569), which equals 1.8% of the average national income. Government figures from 2024 show 47% of UK parents used formula, while those who breastfeed save an estimated £569–£660 in the first year.
- Highest prices. Armenia ($3,471) and Costa Rica ($3,396) are the most expensive locations for formula, costing 1.2 times more than the US total of $2,740. The US ranks as the fifth most expensive country overall for formula.
- Income disparities. In Nigeria and Bangladesh, a year of formula exceeds the average annual salary.
Diapers and daily care
Diaper pricing accounts for 1,110 Size S diapers, 960 Size M diapers, 840 Size L diapers, 7,800 wet wipes, and 400ml of rash cream, based on paediatrician-reviewed guidelines.
Finland is the most affordable location, with a year’s supply costing $892, equivalent to 1.3% of average income, followed by Canada at 1.5%. The US ranks joint 5th for affordability at $1,228, equivalent to 1.6% of average income, despite 54 countries having lower overall prices.
Switzerland ($2,534) and Kosovo ($2,448) are the most expensive countries for diaper supplies. Relative to income, diapers consume the highest portion of average salaries in Nigeria (123.6%), Egypt (44.9%), and Ghana (43.6%).
Clothing, bedding, and transport
Clothing represents the most expensive category globally, averaging $1,496 for a year’s supply of 60 bodysuits, 60 rompers or pairs of trousers, and 24 pairs of socks.
- Clothing. Thailand ($3,807), Sweden ($3,649), and the Netherlands ($3,462) have the highest clothing costs. In Thailand, this consumes 63.2% of average earnings, trailing only Nigeria at 113.7%. The US is among the cheapest at $548, which is 36.4% lower than the UK ($861/£645) and 55.2% lower than Mexico ($1,223).
- Bedding. A crib or Moses basket, mattress, five fitted sheets, and five blankets cost under $200 in six countries, led by Brazil ($148) and Bosnia and Herzegovina ($163). In the US, bedding costs $242, representing 0.3% of average income. Australia (0.4%), New Zealand (0.5%), and Canada (0.6%) also rank within the top 15 most affordable. Iceland is the highest at $1,347.
- Travel gear. Infant car seats and strollers are cheapest in the Philippines ($71) and Bangladesh ($79). Bosnia and Herzegovina ($139) and the UK ($147/£110) are the cheapest in Europe. Travel gear costs exceed $700 in Spain, Albania, Austria, and Monaco, peaking in Iceland at $1,103.
Practical guidance for expatriate parents
To navigate first-year expenses when living abroad, financial experts recommend four key approaches
- Join local parent groups. Online forums and social media communities for expatriates and local families can offer advice, support, and access to second-hand items.
- Shop second-hand. Except for safety items such as car seats and personal hygiene products, pre-owned goods are often available at thrift stores, flea markets, or garage sales.
- Observe local customs and conditions. Cultural practices passed through generations can highlight which commercial items are unnecessary or offer solutions tailored to local climates.
- Research before you travel. Essential goods in one country may be overpriced or unavailable in another if they are not commonly used locally.
A Remitly global study reveals major price differences for first-year baby essentials, ranging from $1,720 in Pakistan – $8,879 in Uzbekistan.