Average Child Support Payment by State (2024)
Understand national averages, state-specific data, and the factors that determine how much child support is paid.
National Average
$430/month
Per child, per month
Median Payment
$350/month
Middle value nationally
Highest State
$589/month
New York (average)
Average Child Support by State
| State | Average / Month | Median / Month |
|---|---|---|
| California | $569 | $432 |
| New York | $589 | $460 |
| Texas | $397 | $325 |
| Florida | $442 | $350 |
| Illinois | $485 | $378 |
| Indiana | $356 | $290 |
| Ohio | $389 | $310 |
| Pennsylvania | $413 | $340 |
Data sourced from US Census Bureau SIPP survey and state court records. Amounts reflect per-child averages.
What Affects Child Support Amounts?
Both Parents' Incomes
The most significant factor. Higher combined income generally means higher support obligations.
Number of Children
Each additional child increases the obligation, though not proportionally — there are economies of scale.
Custody Time Split
More overnights with the paying parent reduces their obligation. Substantial parenting time (>40%) often triggers a reduction credit.
Healthcare & Childcare
Medical insurance premiums and work-related childcare costs are typically added to the base support amount.
State Guidelines
Each state uses different formulas (income shares, percentage of income, or Melson) producing different results for identical inputs.
Special Expenses
Extraordinary expenses like private school tuition, specialized medical care, or extracurricular activities may add to base support.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average child support payment in the US?
According to Census Bureau data, the average monthly child support payment is approximately $430–$500 per month. The median (middle value) is closer to $350 per month, as high-income cases pull the average up.
How much is child support for one child?
For one child, average payments range from $300–$600 per month depending on the state and both parents' incomes. Texas sets 20% of net income; most other states use income-shares tables.
Does child support go up with more children?
Yes. Most states have increasing rates: approximately 17% for 1 child, 25% for 2, 29% for 3, and higher for additional children. The exact rates vary by state and income level.
What percentage of child support is actually paid?
According to federal data, about 68.5% of child support due is actually received. Compliance rates have improved significantly over the past two decades due to stronger enforcement mechanisms like wage garnishment and license suspension.
Can child support be higher than the guideline amount?
Yes. Courts can deviate from guideline amounts for exceptional circumstances including special educational needs, medical costs, extracurricular activities, or when parents agree to a higher amount.
Disclaimer
This tool provides estimates only and is not legal advice. Child support calculations vary based on specific circumstances, court orders, and state guidelines. Always consult with a licensed family law attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Related Resources
Child Support by State
Find your state's official guidelines and calculator
Indiana Child Support Guide
Indiana-specific guidelines and factors
California Child Support Guide
California guideline formula explained
Texas Child Support Guide
Texas percentage model explained
How Child Support is Calculated
Deep dive into the formulas courts use
50/50 Custody Schedule
Generate an equal parenting time calendar
Every Other Weekend Custody
Standard non-custodial parent schedule
Custody Schedule Templates
Printable custody calendar templates
How to Create a Custody Schedule
Guide to building a parenting plan
50/50 Custody Guide
Everything about equal custody arrangements