Aug 24, 2026 - News
Back-to-school costs hit $954 in the Midwest
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Midwest families expect to spend $954 on back-to-school purchases this year — about $32 more than the national average, according to a PwC survey.
Why it matters: Back-to-school costs are rising faster for metro families, putting added pressure on household budgets before the school year even begins.
By the numbers: Nearly half of U.S. families expect to spend more than they did last year, PwC found.
- Nationally, K-12 back-to-school spending is projected to hit a record $43.3 billion, up nearly 10% from last year, according to the National Retail Federation.
Zoom in: Some Des Moines-area schools and community groups are trying to ease the burden.
- Des Moines Public Schools partnered with the Caitlin Clark Foundation this summer to distribute backpacks with supplies and books to nearly 500 students.
Reality check: The spending doesn't stop once school starts.
- Households nationwide plan to spend $635 a month on recurring expenses like meals, snacks and tutoring, per PwC.