Mexican Families to Spend 12.7% More on Back-to-School 2025

Mexican families will spend 12.66% more on back-to-school expenses this year compared to 2024, according to the National Alliance of Small Merchants (ANPEC). The organization estimates that the average cost per student will reach up to MX$10,916 (US$580). 

ANPEC’s analysis shows that school supply lists recorded the highest increase at 16.66%, followed by cleaning products required by schools at 15.10%. Uniforms and footwear rose 10%, while school fees increased 12%.

The cost of school supplies is projected to reach MX$3,386, surpassing the basic list published by the Ministry of Public Education (SEP). Items include six 100-sheet grid notebooks at MX$240.67, two lined notebooks at MX$83.47, pencils at MX$62.92, colored pencils at MX$70.72, pens at MX$69.28, highlighters at MX$82.48, and backpacks at MX$700. Additional items such as adhesive notes, dictionaries, calculators, and geometry sets are also included.

Uniform expenses are estimated at MX$4,400. The daily uniform costs around MX$1,100, the sports uniform MX$1,350, shoes MX$800, and socks MX$350.

Mandatory school fees average MX$2,500 per year. Cleaning products for classrooms, including floor cleaner, bleach, soap powder, antibacterial gel, and paper towels, represent an additional MX$329.

ANPEC advised families to seek fair prices without compromising quality, avoid unnecessary spending on trends, limit cell phone purchases, plan expenses in advance, and avoid debt.