New research from AARP finds that on average grandparents provide more than 500 hours of care and $2,654 in direct financial support annually for their grandchildren, often helping cover everything from basic needs to education and childcare. The study highlights how families rely on grandparents to help navigate rising childcare costs and gaps in formal systems.
“America runs on grandparents. Grandparents are one of the most important – and often overlooked – sources of support for American families,” said Dr. Debra Whitman, AARP EVP and Chief Public Policy Officer. “Through both unpaid caregiving and direct financial assistance, they help parents stay in the workforce, make ends meet, and navigate rising childcare costs. Their contributions strengthen family finances, intergenerational connection, and provide critical support to the broader economy.”
Findings from the study include:
- Grandparents currently contribute over $172 billion in direct financial support to grandchildren each year. They also provide an estimated $731 billion in unpaid care of grandchildren.
- 7 in 10 (69%) of grandparents provide care, averaging more than 500 hours annually.
- 9 in 10 grandparents (90%) provide financial support for grandkids. On average, grandparents report spending $2,654 per year on all grandchildren combined, which is more than the average monthly retiree social security benefit of $2,071.
Beyond the financial impact, the role is also deeply meaningful, as 4 in 5 grandparents (79%) surveyed say the experience is extremely or very fulfilling.
The contributions of grandparents help parents remain in the workforce, manage household costs, and maintain financial stability in an increasingly expensive and complex care landscape.
The study, “Powering Families: The Essential Role of Grandparents in Care, Connection and Support,” is based on a nationally representative survey of more than 3,300 U.S. grandparents age 35 and older, conducted in late 2025, along with qualitative interviews to capture lived experiences. Learn more at AARP.org/GrandparentingStudy.
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