Back-to-school spending will reach $85.42 billion in 2026, as families prioritize education despite a growing focus on value. Shoppers are increasingly turning to digital channels and promotional events to lock in lower prices before the start of the school year.

Back-to-school spending growth will accelerate in 2026

Back-to-school retail sales will reach $85.42 billion in 2026, accelerating 3.3% YoY from 2.5% growth in 2025. The expected uptick reflects a renewed appetite for big-ticket electronics, as parents seek updated devices to keep pace with AI-driven learning tools and digital classroom requirements.

Back-to-school shoppers are increasingly spreading costs over time, starting their shopping journeys as early as July to capitalize on mid-summer sales. After growth dipped to a five-year low in 2025, spending is expected to rebound in 2026 as families move beyond basic replenishment and back into discretionary buys.

Click here to view our full forecast for US back-to-school season sales.