Back-to-school shopping costs edge higher as families spend more on supplies, shoes, and clothing
CHICAGO (WLS) -- As students return to school, families are facing slightly higher back-to-school shopping costs this year, according to data from the National Retail Federation.
Families across the United States are expected to spend more than $43 billion on K-12 back-to-school shopping. The National Retail Federation reported that families spent an average of more than $860 this year on purchases for elementary, middle, and high school students, an increase of about $5 from last year.
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The data also show families are spending more on school supplies and shoes than at any point in the past 10 years. Average spending on school supplies is about $150, while spending on shoes is about $175.
Clothing costs have also risen. According to the latest Consumer Price Index data, boys' clothing is 3.3% more expensive than it was a year ago, while girls' clothing is 5.3% more expensive than last year.
There is some relief for families planning to pack lunches. The average cost of white bread in the Chicago area is about $1.66, slightly lower than it was a year ago.
Consumers looking to track grocery, gas and housing costs can find additional information through the ABC7 Price Tracker.
