Budgeting for a Baby: First-Year Costs in Singapore
Babies are joyful — and they come with new expenses. A little planning goes a long way. Here are the main costs to budget for in your baby's first year in Singapore.
Delivery
Your delivery cost depends on the hospital and ward class, whether the birth is vaginal or by C-section, and your subsidy status. You can use MediSave under the Medisave Maternity Package to offset much of the bill, within set limits. A pregnancy or maternity insurance plan can help with complications.
Recurring costs
- Milk and diapers: a steady monthly expense; breastfeeding can reduce formula costs.
- Infant care or a helper: if both parents work, infant care or a domestic helper is often the biggest line item. Government subsidies reduce infant and childcare fees for eligible families.
- Healthcare: routine reviews and any private vaccinations.
One-off setup
Cot, mattress, stroller, car seat, carrier, steriliser and starter clothing. Buying second-hand or accepting hand-me-downs for big items can save a lot — just buy car seats new for safety.
Don't forget insurance
Many parents add their newborn to an Integrated Shield Plan and consider a basic health or critical-illness policy early, when premiums are low. Review your own life and income protection too — your family now depends on it.
For tailored money decisions — insurance, savings and protection — consider speaking to a licensed financial adviser. See our financial planning for new parents page for more.
