Americans Spend More On Child Care Than Taxes, Housing, Or College

Expectant parents worry about the cost of college, but they might be better off diverting their attention to a more immediate cost: child care.

According to an infographic from caregiving site Care.com, American families spend an average of $18,000 a year on care for their children. That's more than taxes, housing, or even college. (Although if your progeny attends one of the 50 colleges charging over $60,000 a year, these stats might not apply.)

Despite the steep price, nearly half of families don't budget for child care, and 75% of families feel overwhelmed or surprised by the cost.

Below, learn more about what to expect when it comes to child care, plus tips to make the expense more manageable.