With family budgets already squeezed, back-to-school costs sting more

When August rolls around, Gloria Ponce braces for the line she knows she’ll need to add to the family budget. Los Angeles parents will spend almost $200 more this year than last on back-to-school expenses and 57% more than the national average, according to a survey conducted by consulting firm Deloitte. “What are they supposed to do?” The Deloitte survey found that Los Angeles parents are spending an average of $921 per child on back-to-school shopping compared with a national average of $586, which was slightly lower than last year’s national average. Spending on tech products saw the biggest jump from last year, with Los Angeles parents spending $648 on tech in 2024 versus $527 in 2023. Regardless of income, 72% of Los Angeles parents said their child’s preferences influence how much they spend.