As a Toronto parent, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can feel to prepare for the arrival of a new baby — especially when you’re navigating one of the most expensive cities in Canada. That’s why I was honoured to be featured in The Toronto Star in their July 2025 article on what it really costs to raise a child in Toronto. The discussion also highlighted what it really costs to raise a baby in Toronto.
In the piece, I had the opportunity to share some insights from my own parenting journey and from my ebook, The Ultimate Guide to Having a Baby in Toronto. From unexpected hospital costs to budgeting for daycare, the article explored some of the most pressing financial questions new parents in the city face.
Key Takeaways
- I was featured in The Toronto Star discussing the real costs of parenting in the city.
- Parents in Toronto can expect to spend between $10,000–$17,000 in the first year alone.
- Planning ahead — for everything from hospital fees to daycare waitlists — makes a big difference.
- There are many free and low-cost resources in Toronto that can help families save.
- The Ultimate Guide to Having a Baby in Toronto offers local insights, checklists, and budgeting tips.
Table of Contents
Real Costs Toronto Parents Should Expect
In the article, I talked about the value of prenatal classes — and not just for learning about birth and breastfeeding. They also cover the practical things no one tells you about, like where to park when you arrive at the hospital.
“They’re not only talking about breastfeeding or how to prepare for pain management, but they’re actually walking you through where you should park when you arrive to the hospital.”
One thing that surprised me when I gave birth to my daughter was how quickly unexpected costs added up. Shared hospital rooms are covered by OHIP, but if you want a private or semi-private recovery room, it can cost you around $250 to $500 per night. Some insurance plans cover part of it, but rarely the full amount.
The First-Year Baby Budget in Toronto
Prenatal Care & Labour Prep
- Midwife care is covered by OHIP, but spots fill up fast — join a waitlist as early as possible.
- Some hospitals offer free or low-cost prenatal classes if you plan to give birth there.
- Doulas aren’t covered by OHIP and typically cost between $800–$2,000.
Newborn Essentials
- Diapers and wipes: $75–$100/month
- Formula (if needed): $100–$150/month
- Crib, stroller, and car seat: $1,500–$3,000 depending on whether you buy new or used
Parental Leave & Income Drop
- Employment Insurance (EI) benefits cover up to 55% of your earnings (max $695/week)
- If your employer doesn’t offer a top-up, expect a noticeable drop in income
- Many parents cut back on travel and entertainment during this time — and that’s okay
Childcare & Babysitting
- Daycare can cost $10–$22/day if you get into a CWELCC spot; up to $2,000/month for full-fee centres
- Put your name on daycare waitlists early — many allow you to sign up during pregnancy
- Babysitters in the GTA typically charge $15–$20/hour
Long-Term Family Planning
- You can open an RESP when your baby is born, but don’t stress if you can’t contribute right away — unused contribution room carries forward
- Building up a TFSA before baby arrives can provide a buffer for unexpected expenses
- Make sure you have life insurance and a will in place — it’s not fun to think about, but it’s important
Sample Baby Budget for First Year in Toronto
| Category | Monthly / One-Time |
|---|---|
| Medical (residents) | Covered by OHIP (Private Hospital room not covered by OHIP) |
| Gear & Furniture | $1,500 (one-time) |
| Diapers & Toiletries | $100/month |
| Formula & Feeding | $150/month |
| Childcare | $1,685/month (if used) |
| Clothing | $50/month |
Tips from My Guide: How to Save and Prepare Smarter
In The Ultimate Guide to Having a Baby in Toronto, I walk through many of the steps I took (and wish I’d known sooner) when preparing to become a parent. Here are just a few of my favourite tips:
- Check out the City of Toronto’s free prenatal classes and EarlyON family centres
- Shop secondhand through local Facebook groups, Once Upon A Child, and parent swaps
- Join multiple daycare waitlists early — don’t wait until your baby is born
- Look into the Canada Child Benefit and Ontario Child Benefit to help with monthly costs
- Ask your hospital about recovery room options and what insurance may or may not cover
Why I Shared My Story
When I became a parent in Toronto, I was shocked by how little centralized, local information there was. I created this guide — and shared my experience in The Toronto Star — to help other families feel more informed and empowered when navigating pregnancy and early parenting in this city.
Every family’s financial situation is different, but with a bit of planning, support, and access to the right resources, I believe you can find your own version of balance and ease in this exciting chapter of life.
Want to Read the Full Toronto Star Article?
You can read the full feature on The Toronto Star’s website (subscription may be required).
Want to dig deeper? Download The Ultimate Guide to Having a Baby in Toronto — it’s packed with checklists, budgeting tips, local links, and everything I wish I’d known when I was expecting.
If you found this helpful, I’d love for you to share it with a fellow parent or join my newsletter for more Toronto-based parenting tools and tips.