Back-to-school spending is nearly flat, but rising everyday costs still strain family budgets

NORTHWEST TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) — Back-to-school shopping costs have barely budged this year, but many families say they are still feeling financial pressure — and the culprit may not be school supplies at all. WATCH FULL REPORT BELOW:Back-to-school spending is nearly flat, but rising everyday costs still strain family budgetsThe National Retail Federation says the average family will spend about $864 on back-to-school shopping this year, only a few dollars more than last year. School supplies account for about $146 of that total. For many families, the strain comes from keeping up with the rising cost of groceries, gas, housing, insurance, and other everyday expenses. The two schools serve students in the 32304 zip code — one of the poorest zip codes in Florida.