Chapter 2 of 3
The Childcare Equation
Sarah's take-home is $5,400/month. Childcare is $2,800. After taxes, commuting, and work clothes, returning to work nets her $1,100/month. She builds a full one-income model — and the numbers tell a story she didn't expect.
Key Insight
The break-even childcare cost for Sarah to stay home is $2,200/month. At $2,800, the financial case for staying home is real — but only for 3 years. When Amara starts school, the math flips completely.
Model This Scenario