Back-to-School Costs Will Reach 2,725 Euros per Child for Families in Alicante

Families in Alicante will spend an average of 2,725 euros per child on school expenses during the 2024-2025 academic year. This figure is 137 euros higher than the national average, which has increased by 13% compared to last year. The data comes from a survey conducted by the Organization of Consumers and Users (OCU).

The survey indicates that this increase in expenses is due to the general rise in prices, as well as the cost of extracurricular hours, trips, and activities. This reflects the growing difficulties parents face in managing their schedules to pick up their children.

Among all expenses, the study shows that tuition and fees are the two most significant items on the school bill (except in public education where they do not exist), accounting for 40% of the annual cost in subsidized schools (an average of 1,217 euros) and 71% in private schools (an average of 5,646 euros). Following these, the main financial burden for families is the cafeteria: 97 euros per month in public schools, 140 euros in subsidized schools, and 155 euros in private schools.

In third place are extracurricular activities, which cost 76 euros per month in public schools and institutes, 92 euros in subsidized schools, and 112 euros in private schools. The OCU noted that these expenses are more common in early childhood and primary education cycles.

Additionally, the study points out that textbooks represent another significant expense that increases progressively as students advance through their courses. Depending on the type of school attended, families will spend an average of 161 euros per child annually in public schools, 252 euros in subsidized schools, and 306 euros in private schools.

Moreover, the report, prepared by a team of engineers, economists, lawyers, statisticians, editors, and designers from OCU, also notes that school uniforms and sportswear are other expenses to consider. According to the results obtained, this is a particularly common expense in most subsidized schools and half of private schools, adding another 181 euros annually.

Additionally, other expenses during the school year include excursions (trips and cultural visits), for which families will spend an average of 159 euros throughout the year; school supplies (markers, rulers, notebooks), averaging 89 euros; and AMPA fees (34 euros).