Back-to-School Spending Hits Record High as Families Budget Nearly 900 Dollars

Families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade plan to spend an average of $863.86 on back-to-school items in 2026, up from $858.07 in 2025, according to the National Retail Federation's annual survey.

Total K-12 back-to-school spending is expected to reach a record $43.3 billion. Electronics topped the spending list at an average of $293.11 per family, followed by clothing and accessories at $250.29, shoes at $174.01, and school supplies at $146.45.

College shoppers plan to spend an average of $1,437.79, pushing that category to a record $103.5 billion.

The record spending comes as families are already dealing with elevated prices across the economy. Inflation remains above the Federal Reserve's 2 percent target, and gasoline prices have climbed back to $4.00 a gallon after a brief dip in June.

Financial advisors recommend planning ahead for back-to-school costs. Setting aside $75 per month in a dedicated savings fund can help families reach the $900 target without relying on credit. For those who need to spread out payments, a credit card with an introductory 0 percent APR period can help, but only if the balance is paid off before interest kicks in.

The NRF found that 54 percent of parents took advantage of major summer sales events in June, including Amazon Prime Day, Walmart Deals, and Target Circle Day Deals, to get a head start on shopping before prices rise closer to the school year.