I would love to have children, but I'm concerned the cost will be prohibitive.
Understandably it's different for different people (and will vary by location, and spending habits), but I would really like to get a better sense of how much it would cost per month?
I want to know whether having children is just a pipe dream, or something that I and my partner can financially plan towards in the next few years.
Context: I am in a stable relationship, and of an age where I have to give consideration to having children fairly soon. I have an above average paying job, but I've lived in London my whole working life, so I've never felt comfortable money wise (so much money has been thrown down the drain in terms of rent!). I have saved some money and aim to continue to do so, hopefully this will be enough for a deposit on a small flat in the very outer zones of London in a few years time, all being well. I'm factoring the Help to Buy ISA payout into this as well. My partner doesn't have savings, his ability to earn more is limited due to his profession (worthwhile, but underpaid).
Thanks for any insight you can give :)