I’m nearly done with my studies and with religious life not being an option, I’m considering getting married after I finish my degree. I found a calculator online that supposedly gives accurate estimates of how much one needs to make to raise a family. On the surface the amount this thing suggests seems insanely high. Even with a BA, I’ll only be making around 60k starting. Is this calculator accurate in your experience?

https://livingwage.mit.edu/metros/40060

Do you have student loan?

God will supply you with everything. 

No loans

On the surface the amount this thing suggests seems insanely high. Even with a BA, I’ll only be making around 60k starting. Is this calculator accurate in your experience?

Depends on where you live, that calculator does not take regions into consideration. I'm looking at those charts and the amounts to me, are insanely low. For example, it says the required annual income before taxes for 2 adults (1 working) + 1 child is estimated at $76K. In my part of the country you need double that amount (before taxes) to be realistic. For that reason, most families around here are two-income families.

If you're that close to it being an actual concern rather than theoretical, just do the research to make a budget for yourself as accurately as possible. Look at housing prices in your area based on what kind of living you'd consider to be the minimum. I know a family of 5 that lives happily in an RV because they prioritized location and ownership, but that's not for everyone. If you don't already own a vehicle, look online in your area for what you can expect. Food costs can vary widely depending on how often you eat out and what types of food you consume. It's almost better to think first about how much you want to spend on food and then see if you can stay within that budget.

Congratulations on getting this far without debt!