Back-to-school shopping strains Triangle family budgets as costs remain high
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- As students prepare to head back to the classroom, many families are facing one of the most expensive shopping seasons of the year.
School supplies, clothing, shoes and electronics remain major expenses for parents, and higher prices on everyday necessities are making it more difficult for some households to afford back-to-school needs.
Ten-year-old Jamir Allen is getting ready to start fifth grade this fall. He already has a list of essentials in mind, including pencils, markers, a bookbag and new clothes.
His aunt, Christina DeCosta, said the family has not yet reviewed his school supply list but is anticipating a significant expense.
"The list always changes. It always requires more," DeCosta said.
Food, housing, gas it's all more expensive. That takes away from other parts of their budgets, such as school supplies.- Dr. Cody Morris, UNC research economist
She said the cost of preparing for school continues to rise.
"Prices are going up on everything from food to school supplies," she said.
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According to the National Retail Federation, affordability remains a concern for families this back-to-school season. The organization estimates parents will spend nearly $864 per child this school year.
'A tough spot'
Nationwide, back-to-school spending is expected to reach $43 billion, with electronics, clothing and shoes accounting for the largest share of expenses.
"It's a tough spot to be," said Dr. Cody Morris, a research economist at UNC-Chapel Hill's Kenan-Flagler Business School.
Morris said inflation has eased compared with recent years, but families are still feeling the effects of elevated prices on necessities such as food, housing and gasoline.
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"Food, housing, gas it's all more expensive," Morris said. "That takes away from other parts of their budgets, such as school supplies."
To help manage costs, Morris recommends that families consider purchasing store-brand products instead of name-brand items when possible.
"If you're feeling less confident in your ability to save money or uncertain about the future, you might make those cuts to make your budget more flexible," he said.
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Despite the financial pressure, DeCosta said Jamir will have everything he needs before the first day of school.
"We chip in with his parents," she said. "We go half and half on things. We work it out."
