Last Updated June 27th, 2022

Is Formula Powder cheaper than Ready-Made Formula?

Powder Formula is 32% cheaper than the cheapest Ready-Made formula with the per ounce differeence being $.176/oz vs $.26/oz.

Math

Powder Formula
We looked at a Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula 36 oz powder 3 pack
$140 at Costco
264 fl oz (when mixed with water)
140/(3*264) = $.176/oz

Ready-made Formula - small bottles (8 oz)
We considered a Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula 8 oz 24 pack from Costco
24 pack 8 oz = 192 oz
$55 from Costco
$55/192 = $.28 / oz

The equation changes a little bit if you can formula at a discount by using a price tracker on baby product stores listed here.

Ready made large bottle (32 oz)
We looked at a Similac 360 Total Care Infant Formula 32 oz 6 pack $50 from Sams Club
32 oz 6 pack
$.26 / oz

As you can see, formula either of the ready-made variety or powder can get very expensive, especially for the first year of a babies' life. One way to reduce that cost is to breastfeed. What can increase the cost of breastfeeding that is rarely considered is the cost of a lactation consultant.