Baltimore Parents Adjust Back-to-School Budgets Amid Economic Concerns

This year's back-to-school shopping season in Baltimore is marked by heightened economic anxiety, leading families to rethink their budgets. A recent survey by RetailMeNot indicates that the percentage of parents concerned about staying within budget has risen from 29% last year to 37% this year.

Stephanie Carls, a retail insights expert, notes that many parents are starting their shopping earlier to manage expenses more effectively. As families become more budget-conscious, they are meticulously tracking their purchases and actively searching for discounts.

According to a report from Deloitte, 57% of parents anticipate worsening economic conditions over the next six months, a sentiment that is influencing their spending decisions. The same report reveals that while parents plan to spend an average of $557 per child this year—down from $570 in 2025—they are increasingly strategic about their purchases.

Brian McCarthy, a retail strategy leader at Deloitte, observed that families are engaging in 'higher value seeking behaviors,' meaning they are more thoughtful about how they allocate their financial resources. Mark Mathews, chief economist at the National Retail Federation, echoed this, stating that retailers are aware of the demand for competitive pricing as families look for the best deals.

This year, many parents are timing their purchases around sales events and tax-free weekends, hoping to save between $50 to $60. Shoppers like Katrina Stoneking are optimistic about these savings, while others, such as Shayna VanKooten, are setting strict budgets, deciding which items to splurge on and which to buy at lower prices.

A survey by NerdWallet highlights that 21% of families are utilizing free school supply drives, and 19% are opting for secondhand clothing. Additionally, many parents are concerned about ongoing costs, with 37% indicating that their child may miss school activities due to financial constraints.

As families prepare for the new school year, the cumulative costs of supplies, activities, and essentials are weighing heavily on their minds.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).