Ok. It got REALLY complicated because we're talking LOTS of different 'averages'. However, for a baby who is avg weight and gaining along the 50%tile as 'avg', for a standard brand name formula, non hypoallergenic, no WIC, etc - It costs $824 for the first 6 mos. This is JUST for the cost of the actual formula. This does not include the added costs one can expect when artificially feeding a baby such as more medical bills and more missed work for mothers employed outside of the home due to a baby being ill more often, seriously, and longer in duration. This also does not include bottles, nipples, bottle cleaning tools, dryers, sterilizers, to go storage containers, warmers, etc. Again, there are SO many variables...if I had more time, I'd blog about it in more details on how the cost is effected.