The Average Family Will Spend $272 Per Child on School Supplies — How Do You Compare?

Dawn Allcot
·2 min read
CasarsaGuru / iStock.com
CasarsaGuru / iStock.com

In addition to “revenge spending” on trips, clothing and luxury items, Americans will also be spending more on back-to-school shopping this year, a new survey from Savings.com reports.

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Nearly half of the parents polled said they’re spending more this year than last year, and 43% are spending around the same amount as last year. The average parent is spending $272 per child, or $360 for the whole family. Twenty percent of respondents said they will shell out more than $450.

Here’s the breakdown of spending for a single child based on the survey of 538 parents across the U.S.

$0-$99

15%

$100-$199

24%

$200-$299

20%

$300-$399

14%

$400-$499

12%

$500+

16%

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While 16% of parents plan to spend $500 or more per child, more than 66% of parents polled said they are seeking financial assistance with back-to-school expenses. This is evidence of income inequality, along with the harsh economic effects of the pandemic and resulting shutdowns.

“The past year has been one of the hardest financially for families across the U.S.,” said Annie Kim, Savings.com’s editor-in-chief, in an email interview with GOBankingRates. “Coupled with rising rates of inflation, some parents are looking for financial assistance to make sure their kids have supplies and clothes for back to school.”

Of those seeking help, 81% are looking for backpacks and basic school supplies, while 73% are seeking clothing or school uniforms. “Almost half need help with haircuts, yearly physicals and other services,” Kim added.

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Those in need of a hand can check with their local school district to see if they have backpacks or school supplies available for students in need. Often, parents will donate extra supplies to help others in their community. Also check local trading groups on Facebook; as parents clear out last year’s backpacks, clothing and shoes to make room for new, you might snag free items still in good shape.

Kim also advised, “Check with local nonprofits like United Way or Salvation Army to see if there are back to school assistance programs in your area. Your neighborhood [house-of-worship] might also have special programs or drives to support students in the community during the back-to-school season.”

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: The Average Family Will Spend $272 Per Child on School Supplies — How Do You Compare?