Why Back To School Shopping Costs So Much More This Year

I sure do remember those days of school supply shopping with my kids. For example, you had to have a new backpack. Last years "new backpack" is perfectly fine, but noooo, everyone has seen it and I need a new one. Okay fine, and the list goes on including a lunch box, pens, markers and so much more.

But if you haven't checked yet, school supply prices have climbed more than 8% this year, 2026, especially for what you would consider simple things like paper and index cards.

👇 BELOW: FUN REMEMBERING SOME RETRO SCHOOL SUPPLIES 👇

This is more than double the rate of inflation, according to an analysis by The Century Foundation (TCF), Fox17 and Scripps News reported.

There hasn't been a big price increase for things such as highlighters, pens and markers, but that new lunch box will certainly cost you more.

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And don't forget the food you are putting in that lunch box. A simple thing such as a sandwich will cost 21% more this year because of the price of bread. Seriously! Help!

WHAT'S GOING ON?

The Century Foundation says:

"Supply costs have been rising steadily for years. And with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz shipping route, oil and gas prices are soaring since the Iran conflict began in late-February, and that all trickles down to everything else. Add in other food and commodity prices too. but experts say the ongoing Iran war coupled with President Trump’s tariffs on foreign imports, and everything is getting worse."

IS THERE ANY HELP?

Yes there is. Many retailers, Meijer, Walmart and Target are offering special sales and discounts, so check them out as early as possible because they may not last long.