The 2025-2026 school year is fast approaching — and with it, the costs of back-to-school shopping. This year, New York parents and teachers are expected to spend significantly more than in 2024, with some of the highest spending rates in the country, according to research by the coupon site CouponBirds.
How much will NY parents spend
New York parents are projected to spend $1,348 per child on school supplies in 2025—a 20% increase from last year’s average of $1,123. That’s $574 more than the national average of $774 per child. In fact, New York ranks No. 1 for highest parent spending on school supplies this year.
Where parents spend the most on school supplies (Top 10)
States where parents spend the least
What are NY teachers spending?
New York teachers are expected to spend an average of $1,397 on classroom supplies in 2025 — 29% more than the $1,083 they spent in 2024. That’s nearly $400 above the national teacher average of $1,021. New York ranks 9th in teacher spending nationwide.
What teachers are buying (out-of-pocket)
Ninety-five percent of teachers surveyed by CouponBirds said they regularly use personal funds for classroom items. Thirty percent have taken side jobs to cover these costs, and 82% say cutting back would harm student learning.
States where teachers spend the most
States where teachers spend the least
Tips to save on school supplies
For parents:
For teachers:
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Back-to-school spending: NY parents, teachers among nation’s highest in 2025
Reporting by Erin Jones, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
