Back-to-school shopping may still sting, but there's at least a little good news for parents.
According to recent retail data, the average school supply list costs about 34 percent more than it did ten years ago. The increase works out to roughly 3 to 4 percent per year over the last decade.
Business analyst Mark Rosa says that increase is actually lower than many education-related costs, which have historically risen faster than inflation. Even better, school supply prices have eased slightly compared to their post-pandemic peak a few years ago.
"It's still expensive," Rosa said. "But at least those costs didn't continue climbing."
Parents say today's supply lists often go well beyond the basics, with requests for disinfectant wipes, paper towels, copy paper and, in some cases, electronics like Chromebooks or laptops.
Those required items can leave families with fewer opportunities to save.
"When schools specify a particular brand or product, that's where you lose flexibility," Rosa explained.
For more generic items like notebooks, pencils and pens, however, Rosa recommends comparing prices before heading to the checkout line.
Instead of buying everything at one store, he suggests shopping online first and checking discount retailers such as Walmart, Sam's Club and Dollar General, where many everyday supplies can cost less.
"The technology is there," Rosa said. "A little homework from the kitchen table can save you money."
With classrooms set to fill again soon, experts say a little planning and shopping around may be the best way to keep this year's school supply bill from climbing even higher.
