One of the outcomes for soldiers' families after the Battle of Antietam was economic hardship.

Many households lost their main breadwinners as a result of the battle's heavy casualty rate. Households experienced financial hardship as a result of the soldier's death, especially in rural areas where farming was vital. Furthermore, the demands of the conflict frequently upset regional economies, resulting in shortages and price increases. Families struggled during the protracted conflict because they had to deal with the practical difficulties of navigating a more challenging economic landscape in addition to the emotional toll of losing loved ones.