Parents Expect to Spend $885 per Child on Back-to-School CostsA new Good Morning America/Ipsos Parents Poll found that parents expect to spend an average of $885 per child for the 2026 back-to-school season. Most Parents Say Back-to-School Prices Are HigherThe poll found that 68% of parents believe the items they normally purchase for back-to-school season are more expensive this year than last year. Older Students May Need More Expensive ClothingParents of high school students expect to spend an average of $332 on clothing and shoes, while parents of middle school students anticipate spending $290. Parents of elementary students expect to spend $218. What the Back-to-School Poll Means for New York FamiliesThe GMA/Ipsos poll was conducted from July 28 through July 30, 2026.