Marketplace Morning Report Checking up on child care costs
Jul 21, 2025
Child care costs in America have surged by 30% since before COVID, prompting tough choices for many families. The U.S. lags behind other industrialized nations in spending on child care and pre-kindergarten. Personal stories highlight the financial strain, while experts discuss the need for public funding and bipartisan support. Meanwhile, financial markets appear stable despite geopolitical tensions and trade wars, hinting at a complex interplay of politics and economics.
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Parents' Child Care Struggles
- Allison, a teacher from Philadelphia, had to work up until just before giving birth and had no paid parental leave.
- Sydney faced $4,000 monthly child care costs, showing the economic strain on families with young children.
Rising Child Care Pressures
- Child care costs have risen over 30% since before the pandemic due to inflation and reduced support.
- Many mothers are forced to reduce work hours or quit jobs because care responsibilities mostly fall on them.
U.S. Underinvests Child Care
- The U.S. spends only 0.3% of GDP on child care and pre-kindergarten, less than other industrialized countries.
- This underinvestment leaves American families facing high costs and limited financial relief.