A new LendingTree analysis finds families with K-12 students spent an average of $858 on back-to-school items in 2025. That number has stayed nearly flat since 2019, even as inflation pushed prices higher across the board. For families on the Suncoast, from Sarasota to Bradenton, that means the annual school supply run still carries a hefty price tag, and it’s worth thinking about how to make those dollars stretch further.
The report highlights a sharp divide in how this cost impacts families. In Mississippi, back-to-school shopping consumes 16.8% of the average monthly household income, with West Virginia and Louisiana close behind. Wealthier coastal states, by contrast, feel the least burden. While Florida sits in the middle, local parents still feel the pinch, especially those with multiple kids or middle and high school students who need more expensive gear like calculators and laptops.
Consumer finance analyst Matt Schulz recommends a few practical steps. Start by making a list of actual needs, not wants. Compare prices online and in stores before buying. And check for local school-supply drives, which many community groups and schools in the area host each August. Avoiding high-interest credit card debt is another key move. A little planning can turn a stressful trip into a manageable one.
What’s your best money-saving tip for back-to-school shopping? Share it in the comments below.
