Unpaid Care Work: The Invisible Backbone of the Economy

Globally, women perform a substantial majority of unpaid care work, which includes tasks like childcare, eldercare, cooking, and cleaning. This labor, while essential, often goes unrecognized in economic metrics. In the United States alone, the value of unpaid care work by women is estimated at over $625 billion annually.

If mothers received compensation for their unpaid household labor, their annual earnings would be approximately $145,235, according to Insure.com’s 2025 “Mother’s Day Index”. This figure underscores the immense value mothers contribute through roles such as cooking, counseling, teaching, and more.

Mothers as Primary Earners

Beyond unpaid work, many mothers are also primary or significant contributors to their household incomes. Approximately 40.5% of mothers with children under 18 are equal, primary, or sole earners for their families. This percentage is even higher among Black mothers, at 65.9% .

However, mothers often face a “motherhood wage penalty,” experiencing reduced earnings compared to childless women and men. This penalty can result in a lifetime loss of approximately $295,000 in wages and retirement benefits.

The Broader Economic Impact

Recognizing and supporting mothers’ contributions can have far-reaching economic benefits. Policies that support working mothers, such as paid family leave and affordable childcare, not only aid families but also bolster the economy. For instance, Connecticut’s paid family and medical leave program has provided over $1.1 billion in benefits since January 2022, with women filing 59% of the approved applications.

Moreover, addressing gender disparities in the workforce could significantly boost economic growth. Closing the gender gap is projected to add $2.1 trillion to the U.S. GDP over the next decade.

This Mother’s Day, let’s honor mothers not just with gratitude but with a commitment to recognizing and supporting their invaluable economic contributions. By acknowledging the full scope of their work—both paid and unpaid—we can move toward a more equitable and prosperous society for all.

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