National survey puts back-to-school spending at an average of $700 per family

A national survey report says families with children in elementary school through high school plan to spend an average of $696.70 on back-to-school shopping that includes clothing, supplies and other items for the school year.

An unofficial survey conducted with parents throughout Cache Valley shows that number to be lower than the national average, with most parents reporting to spend an average of $150-$200 on each child and a combined average of about $300-$500 per family.

The National Retail Federation has been conducting Back-to-School and Back-to-College surveys since 2003 to see how American families will shop. According to the survey, “the total spending for K-12 schools and college combined is projected to reach $80.7 billion. Clothing and accessories will top the K-12 families’ expenses at an average of $239.82, followed by electronics at $203.44.”

Electronics is the highest price tag for college students at an average of $234.69, followed by clothing and accessories at $148.54, according to the report.

“Consumers are in a strong position given the nation’s growing economy, and we see this reflected in what they say they will spend on back-to-class items this year,” NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said in a press release. “We’re expecting record spending and retailers are ready to provide students with all the items they need for a successful school year.”

The report notes teens will be spending more of their own money at an average of $36.71, up from $30.88 ten years ago. Pre-teens are spending almost double of their own money compared to 10 years go. This year spending $26.40, up from $11.94.

“Members of Generation Z are clearly becoming more involved with back-to-school purchasing decisions rather than leaving the choices up to mom and dad,” Shay said in a press release. “Over the years, both teens and pre-teens are spending more of their own money on back-to-school items.”

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