California Couple Chooses Child-Free Life, Says It's 'Unaffordable' For Them

In contemporary times, many couples opt to delay or forego parenthood due to the substantial planning and financial considerations involved. This trend is exemplified by a couple from California, USA, who have chosen to remain childless despite their significant combined income of $200,000 per year. Beccy Quinn, 35, and her husband Xavier Coelho-Kostolny, 36, represent a growing demographic of Americans embracing a ‘child-free by choice’ lifestyle.

Reports indicate that the current cost of raising a child to the age of 17 in the United States stands at a staggering $310,000 (Rs 2.5 crore), prompting many couples to rethink starting a family. Consequently, birth rates in the USA have been steadily declining since 2012.

Initially, Beccy and Xavier entertained the idea of parenthood but ultimately opted out after thorough deliberation. Xavier, a 3D model designer for video games, and Beccy, an actress and writer, earn a comfortable $200,000 (Rs 1.6 crore) annually from their respective professions. Despite their financial stability, they made a conscious decision to forgo parenthood after carefully assessing their finances and retirement plans. Beccy, who manages the household finances, highlights the potential disruption a child would bring, citing the exorbitant cost of daycare as a significant financial burden.

Xavier expressed his frustration, deeming parenthood financially unattainable, and resigned himself to a lifetime of work. Conversely, while Beccy occasionally experiences moments of doubt regarding their decision, she ultimately finds solace in the freedom it affords her. She articulates, “I would rather regret not having children than regret having them.”

Their story reflects a broader societal shift where couples increasingly prioritise financial stability and personal freedom over traditional notions of parenthood. The decision to remain childless shows the evolving dynamics of family planning and the multifaceted considerations couples weigh when contemplating starting a family in today’s economic landscape.