A family member of mine used to investigate Medical fraud in CA. Here was one that was investigated:
Woman (according to welfare claims) lives alone with her two kids. Investigator has report of father in the home, which would potentially invalidate a lot of $$ in welfare benefits. The big money welfare payments are to single mothers only. Investigator knocks on door of the home at 8:30am. Father answers door in underwear. Says he does not live in the home, just babysits (his) kids. He said he lives across the street, and was babysitting for the mom when he fell asleep on the couch. The mom was out on the town the night prior. Untouchable per CA regulations.
She gets the highest welfare benefits based on the children, free rent via Section 8, food stamps, and AFDC (aid to families with dependent children.) Her doctor diagnosed her with "chronic fatigue syndrome" so that opened up Social Security disability. (Late 20's with 2 kids= chronic fatigue.) Total income about $45k annually-- that was 15 years ago. No job, no work.
So the high income earners and the no income earners can afford children. It's those in the middle getting the squeeze.