Back-to-school costs strain family budgets across Latin America

Families across Latin America and Mexico are facing significant financial pressure due to rising costs for the upcoming school year. In the United States, a PwC survey indicates parents expect to spend an average of $922, with nearly half planning to spend more than in 2025. In Mexico, consumer protection agency Profeco has issued guidance on selecting quality school supplies and managing technology costs, noting that expenses for uniforms and supplies can reach up to 5,000 pesos per child in some regions.

In the Dominican Republic, parents report high costs for supplies and snacks, with some spending up to RD$10,000 monthly on school meals. Meanwhile, in Venezuela, the government has launched school fairs offering discounts of over 30% on essential items. In Ecuador, the economic impact is notable, with national education spending reaching billions, placing a heavy burden on household liquidity.

To mitigate these costs, many families are turning to strategies such as reusing old materials, comparing prices across different retailers, and seeking government-supported programs like Propeep in the Dominican Republic or low-cost kits in Mexico.