Baltimore family shares monthly costs of raising toddler amid ballot measure

A Baltimore couple living in Upper Fells Point shared insights into their monthly expenses raising a 3-year-old child, highlighting the significant financial demands involved, according to The Baltimore Banner.

Childcare, even part-time, represents a major expense for the family, along with medical bills, diapers, and other accumulating costs. To manage these, the couple employs strategies such as buying secondhand clothes and adjusting work schedules.

Amy, a self-employed fitness trainer, earns about $4,800 monthly, while Kofi recently started a business venture without steady income. They currently rely on savings accumulated for early retirement to cover monthly bills.

After their child was born in 2023, the couple spent more on convenience services like ready-to-eat meals and housecleaning to cope with new demands. Amy reduced client work to care for their infant, and Kofi temporarily stayed home after leaving his tech job.

The family also tried a nanny share arrangement, which ended when Kofi left his job. When their child turned two, daycare costs decreased slightly, and he began attending three days a week, balancing costs with Amy's mental well-being.

This personal financial story comes as Baltimore voters are set to decide on a ballot measure to create a new “baby fund,” aiming to support families with young children.

What we're watching: How the proposed baby fund might impact families facing similar financial challenges in Baltimore.