UK spending on core family needs could reach more than £32,000 within a decade, according to new analysis from Remitly. The study models how the cost of rent, childcare, health and other essentials has changed over time and projects what families may pay by 2035.
Remitly’s figures place the UK ninth among countries with the highest estimated costs by 2035, at £32,766.88. The research also notes that UK essential family expenses could reach as much as £32,061, around 20% higher than 2025 levels, with families spending over £6,000 more annually on household essentials than today.
Top 10 countries by estimated family essentials cost in 2035
- United States — £62,686.87
- Ireland — £61,252.12
- Switzerland — £53,215.00
- Netherlands — £41,070.08
- Canada — £39,613.77
- Luxembourg — £37,892.09
- Australia — £35,417.97
- Portugal — £34,986.00
- United Kingdom — £32,766.88
- Spain — £28,837.04
Remitly highlights particularly sharp projected increases among the top three: the United States at £61,122 (up 48% from 2025), Ireland at £60,151 (up 77%), and Switzerland rising 26% to £52,367 by 2035.
Further findings
- Biggest surges since historical benchmarks: Hungary (+110%), Portugal (+99%), Spain (+78%).
- Childcare vs. salaries: Australia has seen a 112% increase in childcare costs relative to local salaries—the highest globally.
Explore the full methodology, data and rankings: https://www.remitly.com/gb/en/landing/global-family-inflation-index
