Why More Americans Are Going Child Free
CNBC
11 min, 37 sec
An in-depth look at the increasing trend of DINK (Dual Income, No Kids) households, their financial planning, and the societal and economic implications.
Summary
- A couple shares their decision to embrace the DINK lifestyle, highlighting financial freedom and personal flexibility.
- DINK households are growing in number, with 43% of American households in 2022 not having children, a 7% increase from a decade earlier.
- The cost of raising a child and financial challenges are significant factors in the decision to remain childless.
- DINKs often have more disposable income, allowing for investments, savings, and enjoying expensive hobbies.
- While beneficial for individual couples, the DINK trend poses challenges for societal structures relying on population growth.
Chapter 1
![A couple narrates their journey to becoming a DINK household and their appreciation for the acronym.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMjksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--9283758ce6b695b749fbc58419c5b1eeaddbd76c/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_22.jpg)
A couple narrates their journey to becoming a DINK household and their appreciation for the acronym.
- The couple got married young and chose not to have children.
- They fell in love with the term DINK, which stands for Dual Income, No Kids.
- The idea that children can negatively impact net worth resonates with them.
![A couple narrates their journey to becoming a DINK household and their appreciation for the acronym.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMjksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--9283758ce6b695b749fbc58419c5b1eeaddbd76c/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_22.jpg)
Chapter 2
![An analysis of the rising trend of DINK households and their prevalence in the United States.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--1f0b0f8a33d7ba4aeadec56cad110d753fa8f4ae/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_60.jpg)
An analysis of the rising trend of DINK households and their prevalence in the United States.
- The trend of not having children is purposeful, with a significant rise in DINK households.
- In 2022, DINK households comprised around 43% of American homes, a 7% increase from the previous decade.
- Only a quarter of Americans are certain about wanting children, reflecting the prominence of DINK due to financial concerns.
![An analysis of the rising trend of DINK households and their prevalence in the United States.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--1f0b0f8a33d7ba4aeadec56cad110d753fa8f4ae/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_60.jpg)
Chapter 3
![DINK couples share insights into how finance plays a major role in deciding not to have children.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--bc650b167521b38ab7aac3669fd055fe147c23ba/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_104.jpg)
DINK couples share insights into how finance plays a major role in deciding not to have children.
- A 2023 survey reveals finance as a major factor in the decision to remain childless.
- Advisors often withhold the full financial details of childrearing, which can deter clients from having children.
- The cost of raising a child to age 18 is estimated at $310,605, not including college.
![DINK couples share insights into how finance plays a major role in deciding not to have children.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--bc650b167521b38ab7aac3669fd055fe147c23ba/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_104.jpg)
Chapter 4
![The impact of childrearing costs on personal finances and the challenges faced by individuals and couples.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--7ca74f969465b3e5528aa7b30a785bef399494fa/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_156.jpg)
The impact of childrearing costs on personal finances and the challenges faced by individuals and couples.
- Couples often face the reality that childcare costs can equal or exceed one's salary.
- Student loans and other financial obligations can conflict with the desire to have children.
- Some people delay or forgo having children due to these financial pressures.
![The impact of childrearing costs on personal finances and the challenges faced by individuals and couples.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--7ca74f969465b3e5528aa7b30a785bef399494fa/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_156.jpg)
Chapter 5
![The financial benefits of being a DINK couple are discussed, including savings on childcare and combined finances.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--22a12e507e7a3618265b2889c9005ba807b67d45/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_191.jpg)
The financial benefits of being a DINK couple are discussed, including savings on childcare and combined finances.
- Without the expenses of a child, DINK couples feel more financially comfortable.
- They can focus on their own interests, save for the future, and manage day-to-day finances with less worry.
![The financial benefits of being a DINK couple are discussed, including savings on childcare and combined finances.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--22a12e507e7a3618265b2889c9005ba807b67d45/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_191.jpg)
Chapter 6
![Exploring the lifestyle advantages DINKs enjoy, such as free time for hobbies and home projects.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--3f8f0b8a09e67d81840cce3d5024f42a1e6be95d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_228.jpg)
Exploring the lifestyle advantages DINKs enjoy, such as free time for hobbies and home projects.
- DINKs value their free time and engage in expensive hobbies like mechanical keyboard building.
- They have time for home remodeling, beekeeping, and other personal pursuits without the responsibilities of childcare.
![Exploring the lifestyle advantages DINKs enjoy, such as free time for hobbies and home projects.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxMzksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--3f8f0b8a09e67d81840cce3d5024f42a1e6be95d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_228.jpg)
Chapter 7
![DINKs discuss how their lifestyle choice contributes to their financial security and ability to withstand economic downturns.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--b6da70e8b13b72bca934ed1fca6aabb8ec5cd26f/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_274.jpg)
DINKs discuss how their lifestyle choice contributes to their financial security and ability to withstand economic downturns.
- The disposable income of DINKs provides stability and security, with many saving for emergencies.
- DINKs can often save more for retirement and have higher median net worth than parents.
![DINKs discuss how their lifestyle choice contributes to their financial security and ability to withstand economic downturns.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--b6da70e8b13b72bca934ed1fca6aabb8ec5cd26f/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_274.jpg)
Chapter 8
![The opportunities DINKs have for investments, including real estate and retirement savings, are explored.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--281c5e70bfad076af36a542136585996ad061d9d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_342.jpg)
The opportunities DINKs have for investments, including real estate and retirement savings, are explored.
- Without child-related expenses, DINKs can invest in equities, real estate, and other assets.
- Early investments lead to a secure nest egg, providing options for aging years.
![The opportunities DINKs have for investments, including real estate and retirement savings, are explored.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDMsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--281c5e70bfad076af36a542136585996ad061d9d/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_342.jpg)
Chapter 9
![The benefits of DINKs' financial planning in terms of housing and asset accumulation are highlighted.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--eba968005f4113ed02fc51e078672f26a131a77b/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_431.jpg)
The benefits of DINKs' financial planning in terms of housing and asset accumulation are highlighted.
- Dual income and savings allow DINKs to make larger down payments on homes, reducing mortgage costs.
- The couple shares their experience of upgrading homes and building savings without the financial burden of a child.
![The benefits of DINKs' financial planning in terms of housing and asset accumulation are highlighted.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDUsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--eba968005f4113ed02fc51e078672f26a131a77b/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_431.jpg)
Chapter 10
![The broader economic and societal implications of the rise of DINK households are examined.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--e02e71e5c700670034a1edadd270a639cbfed78b/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_518.jpg)
The broader economic and societal implications of the rise of DINK households are examined.
- While beneficial for individual couples, lower birth rates due to DINK trends could slow economic growth.
- Social programs like Social Security depend on population growth, highlighting the need for a balance.
![The broader economic and societal implications of the rise of DINK households are examined.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDcsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--e02e71e5c700670034a1edadd270a639cbfed78b/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_518.jpg)
Chapter 11
![DINKs face social perceptions and challenges, including pressure from family and the lack of social groups for childless adults.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--0001dd9070076b011d668ebf82a67525e69b322e/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_574.jpg)
DINKs face social perceptions and challenges, including pressure from family and the lack of social groups for childless adults.
- DINK couples often face questions about not having children and the assumption that something is wrong.
- The lack of social support structures for childless adults can make it harder to make friends and care for aging relatives.
![DINKs face social perceptions and challenges, including pressure from family and the lack of social groups for childless adults.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNDksInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--0001dd9070076b011d668ebf82a67525e69b322e/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_574.jpg)
Chapter 12
![Experts and DINKs themselves offer financial planning advice for those considering the DINK lifestyle.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--072237a3e42e2eabff6f1b9badc3c42ed3b6e792/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_642.jpg)
Experts and DINKs themselves offer financial planning advice for those considering the DINK lifestyle.
- DINKs are advised to prioritize savings, set clear goals, and review them annually.
- Financial planners endorse the DINK strategy and emphasize budgeting and investment.
![Experts and DINKs themselves offer financial planning advice for those considering the DINK lifestyle.](https://www.videogist.co/rails/active_storage/representations/redirect/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6NjUxNTEsInB1ciI6ImJsb2JfaWQifX0=--072237a3e42e2eabff6f1b9badc3c42ed3b6e792/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsiZGF0YSI6eyJmb3JtYXQiOiJqcGciLCJyZXNpemVfdG9fbGltaXQiOls3MjAsbnVsbF19LCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--c9426325207613fdd890ee7713353fad711030c7/3843_642.jpg)
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