Budgeting for back-to-school supplies in Monroe. Where's the best place to shop?

MONROE — It’s never too soon to start thinking about back-to-school supplies. Several school districts are beginning to post lists with specific items online.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) says more than 55% of back-to-school and college shoppers have begun purchasing items for the upcoming school year.

Backpacks and pencils are essential. Younger learners will most likely need a water bottle, earbuds or headphones, crayons, colored pencils, washable markers, highlighters, glue sticks, erasers, folders, wide-ruled notebooks and an extra pair of shoes for gym class.

Families with children in elementary through high school plan to spend an average of $875.

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NFR data reports shoppers are budgeting $309.35 on average for electronics, $253.29 for clothes and accessories, $141.62 for school supplies and $170.43 for footwear.

College students and their families will spend an average of $1,364 for supplies the 2024-25 school year.

It’s no surprise consumers will be searching for the best deals online followed by department and discount stores. Retailers like Amazon, Walmart and Meijer are already offering summer savings. We want to know what our readers think is the best place to go back-to-school shopping in Monroe County. Let us know in the poll below.

— Contact reporter Lisa Vidaurri-Bowling at lvidaurribowling@gannett.com .

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Budgeting for back-to-school supplies in Monroe. Where's the best place to shop?