Here's how much it costs to raise a family in Los Angeles

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We all know that raising a family in this country isn't cheap. According to the USDA, the average cost to raise a child is $233,610. That includes food, shelter, and other necessities. It doesn't include the cost of college or private school.

Curious about raising a family in Los Angeles? We've got you covered. 

Childcare costs in Los Angeles

Unless you (or your partner) are planning on staying home with your kid or have a relative who can provide care, you'll have to pay for childcare, either in the provider's home or at a childcare center.

According to kidsdata.org, in Los Angeles County, infant care in a childcare center costs an average of $14,309 per year. While infant care in a family home center (a private residence) costs an average of $9,186. Daycare for preschoolers in Los Angeles County childcare centers costs an average of $10,303, while the same care in a family home center costs an average of $8,579.

The average childcare costs in Los Angeles County are higher than the average costs in California as a whole. The California average for infant care in a childcare center is $13,327, while infant care in a home costs an average of $8,462 in the state. Daycare for preschoolers in a childcare center costs an average of $9,106 in California, with home care costing an average of $7,850.

Schools in Los Angeles

Navigating the Los Angeles public school system can be tricky. As in many large cities, there is a wide range of quality in Los Angeles' public schools. There are also 287 private schools in Los Angeles County. But you don't have to go private to get a good education for your children. 

The Los Angeles County Economic Development Corporation touts LA County's "Blue Ribbon" schools, including California Academy of Mathematics and Science in Carson, McGrath Elementary in Newhall, Gertz-Ressler High School in Los Angeles and Merced Elementary in West Covina.

If you live in Los Angeles County, your kids don't necessarily go to their neighborhood school. You can also try to enroll them in a different school such as a magnet or charter school. Your first step will be to identify your child's resident school. You can then read about the school and, if you deem it necessary, read about other choices available to your child.

Crime in Los Angeles

Some people who are considering starting families (or moving with a family) like to know about the crime rates in the cities they're considering. Violent crime was up for the third straight year in Los Angeles as of 2016.

According to data from the Los Angeles Police Department, homicides are up as of February 2017 compared to this time in 2016. However, total violent crime is down compared to this time in 2016.

Bottom line

When looking for a great city to raise a family there are lots of factors that can go into a decision. Some people want to be near relatives or other support systems. Others base their decision on the job opportunities available to them or the cost of living. Though Los Angeles is an expensive city, it has a lot to offer families.

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