The countdown to the first day of school is underway but for many families, it’s the price tag, not the pencils, that’s causing stress.
This year, the average cost of back-to-school supplies has climbed to $894, up from $860 in 2024.
That includes everything from notebooks and clothes to tablets and calculators. According to economists, there’s not much consumers can do to escape the added cost.
LSU economist Dr. Jim Richardson says the increase is being driven by ongoing inflation, tariff tensions, and market-wide pressures that are affecting retailers across the board.
“You’re not going to find one store that has significantly lower prices than the others,” Richardson said. “Everyone is feeling the pinch, and the ripple effect ultimately lands on the consumer’s wallet.”
Richardson points to electronics as one area where parents may feel the biggest sticker shock, especially with continued uncertainty in global trade and import tariffs. He says families should brace for higher costs no matter where they shop.
Unlike previous years, Richardson says savvy bargain hunting may not offer much relief.
“The best advice I can give is to budget and plan ahead. These prices are the reality for now.”With Louisiana students set to return to classrooms in just a few weeks, families are encouraged to shop early, stick to school lists, and explore community giveaways or tax-free weekends if available.