Raising a child is no easy task and isn't for the faint of heart. Your responsibilities never end and you're always on your toes. Don't get us wrong, it can be fun to be a parent but it takes a lot of energy, emotional stamina, and yes... money.

Raising a child in 2024 is not the same as it was a long time ago

Becoming a parent is a milestone unlike any other - you're forever bonded with a person who shares your DNA. People have been having children since the beginning of human existence and you could easily say that parenting has gotten easier over the years.

And we can't say that you'd be wrong - think about technology, especially iPads. So many parents tell themselves that they'll never be the parent who lets their kid on an iPad but when the time comes, it's there - and never fails.

On the other hand, you might get away with saying that parenting in 2024 is harder than it's ever been. The cost of living continues to rise and increasing wages seems to only contribute to that issue. You also have the double-edged sword that is technology.

It can pose a threat or create a barrier in your relationship with your child.

Regardless of which side you're on with parenting difficulty, one thing is for sure: childcare is expensive, especially if you have multiple children.

According to an archived article from the LA Times, in 1996, the average US childcare cost was $90.39 a week, or $361.56 a month, or $4,700.28 annually.

Oh, how the times have changed! Check out what childcare cost is today, in 2024, in Idaho and surrounding states.

Average Cost of Daycare in Idaho & Surrounding States

If you think the cost is ridiculous in Idaho, wait until you see how much it is in the surrounding states!

Gallery Credit: Chris Cardenas

Idaho's 10 Most Affordable Towns for Raising a Family

Updated in 2023: Here are the 10 Most Affordable Towns in Idaho according to HomeSnacks.

Gallery Credit: Parker Kane

The 10 Best Boise Neighborhoods to Raise a Family

Niche.com applied their methodology to over 30 neighborhoods in the City of Boise. After grading neighborhoods on quality of schools, safety, access to family amenities and other factors, they determined these are the 10 neighborhoods where you'd love to raise a family in Boise.

Gallery Credit: Michelle Heart

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