A new survey by the National Retail Federation (NRF) reveals that back-to-school spending per family is expected to decrease this year to $858.07. That’s down from $874.68 in 2024. Other findings:
- College students are expected to spend an average of $1,325.85, down from $1,364.75 in 2024
- Overall back-to-school spending is expected to reach $39.4 billion this year, up from $38.8 billion last year
- Most shoppers are purchasing school items online, followed by department stores and discount outlets