Raising a Child in Israel Now Costs Over One Million Shekels, Burdening Middle-Class Families

Raising a child in Israel in 2026 has become a significant financial challenge that heavily strains middle-class families. From the moment a child is born, parents face mounting expenses that extend over two decades, starting even before birth with costs for cribs, furniture, and strollers ranging from 10,000 to over 22,000 shekels. Monthly expenses during early childhood, including diapers, private daycare, and other necessities, can reach about 7,100 shekels, totaling approximately 426,600 shekels over five years.

As children grow, costs shift to school supplies, extracurricular activities, and clothing, with monthly expenses around 4,860 shekels for ages 5 to 12, amounting to over 400,000 shekels for that period. By age 12, cumulative expenses can surpass 830,000 shekels. Teenagers face additional costs such as personal electronics, social activities, youth movements, and driving lessons. When children enlist in the military, parents still bear expenses for food, laundry, equipment, and allowances.

Parents interviewed, including Nitzan Zemer Hershkovitz, a teacher from Ra'anana, report monthly child-related expenses exceeding 13,000 shekels. Many families rely heavily on financial support from grandparents to manage these costs. The long-held myth that raising a child costs about one million shekels has been surpassed, with current expenses exceeding that figure, placing severe pressure on family budgets.

Experts note that the financial burden influences family planning decisions, with some parents deciding against having more children due to economic constraints. The overall average cost does not include unexpected expenses or health challenges. Even after children turn 21, financial responsibilities continue with higher education and housing support, suggesting families should start saving early for these future needs.