Hey mamas, it’s that time again — the school supply lists are out, the shoe sizes somehow jumped a full number overnight, and our wallets are bracing for those shopping trips.

But here’s a little comforting news: we’re all in the same boat.

According to a recent survey from the Mall of America, most back-to-school shoppers this year are sticking to last year’s budget.

PLUS – on my Facebook page I asked moms where they are shopping for their kids’ back to school clothes, and wow did I get a variety of responses, but they’re definitely leaning toward price over prestige.

But first, let’s explore the Mall of America survey.

Back to School Shopping Survey (done by Mall of America)

The survey asked 500+ shoppers how they’re handling the back-to-school season, and let me just say, the frugal spirit is alive and well. Over half identified as “Savvy Savers” — meaning deals, not designer labels, are what drive their decisions. (Bargains over brands. Yup, those are my people!)

Here are a few highlights from the survey that totally hit home:

Most families are spending between $100 and $499 per kid — though 18% are keeping it under $99. (See my own survey below for some possible reasons why.)
The economy is definitely affecting decisions — 61% say they’re tightening their budgets this year.
In-person shopping is back — 95% are doing at least some shopping in-store. I agree with this one. There’s just something about seeing the deals with your own eyes (and checking backpack zippers IRL, right?).
August is the big shopping month — so if you’re planning a haul, now’s the time.

You can read all the survey results here.

Regarding the Mall of America – if you’re looking to get everything done in one place, the Mall of America can be a solid option. It’s big (obviously), but that also means you’ve got plenty of choices under one roof — from school supplies to shoes to a quick bite when everyone’s starting to fade. And hey, if the kids need a break (or you do), there are ways to make it more fun than your average errand run.

We do shop there, so I know there are ways to do so without going broke.

Need help with having fun on a budget at the megamall?

The Mall of America is running some really good seasonal promotions to help stretch your dollar further.

Plus, while you’re there, use my guide: 15 Free Things to Do with Kids at the Mall of America (& FREE Printable Scavenger Hunt).

Back to School Clothing Survey

Now back to my survey, which I shared on my Facebook page and in my Minnesota Money-Saving Moms group, so I specifically targeted budget-minded moms in Minnesota.

I asked:

Here are some of the answers I got:

Kohl’s for shoes and jeans, Walmart, Target, Goodwill, other secondhand stores, garage sales
Since they are little mainly Once Upon a Child and Kids Rack
Children’s Place has the highly-decorated girly tee shirts that my 1st grader wants.
I like JC Penney for boys graphic ts
JCPenney for clothes, Walmart for supplies
JBF Sales
Old navy, Target, Carters, Kohl’s, The Children’s Place
Albertville Outlet Mall
Sierra Trading
H&M and Shein
FB marketplace because we home school
Target
Children’s place as my kiddo goes to a school with uniforms
I don’t typically buy a lot of clothes for “back to school”. Usually get a few clothing staples, maybe some new tennis shoes, socks. I know we’ll be purchasing clothes again throughout the year as needed…in addition to the clothes we already have.
JBF, Amazon, their own closet. My kids are elementary, and don’t expect a new wardrobe to start the school year, yet…. But they both also have summer birthdays and get a couple outfits each year, usually.
Outlet – Under Armour when they have 50% off store
I always wait about a month or two into the year. I swear my kid grows 3 inches by October. And it’s still hot outside in the beginning of the year so summer clothes are appropriate.
Depends on the year and what i can afford. Often times we shop at thrift stores as I value teaching my child it’s not about showing off it’s about what’s in your heart. I can afford the Abercrombie clothes, American Eagle but why pay huge prices when often times I can get them at thrift stores. Often times we buy clothes throughout the year so school opening isn’t one big bill.

There were some more answers, many of which were similar, but here were my top takeaways:

1. Budget-Friendly is Key

A clear theme across the board is affordability. Moms get creative and strategic by mixing traditional retailers with secondhand and discount options.

Big Box Favorites:

Target and Walmart came up multiple times – no surprise there. They’re convenient, familiar, and run reliable back-to-school deals.
Kohl’s and Old Navy also got multiple mentions for basics like jeans, shoes, and everyday outfits. (I echo this – I especially love Kohl’s cash, stackable deals and sales going on right now.)

Secondhand & Thrift Options:

Once Upon a Child, Kids Rack, Goodwill, garage sales, and JBF Sales (Just Between Friends) all show up — pointing to a strong secondhand-savvy crowd.

I would also suggest one of my favorites: Eco Chico in West St. Paul. Read about our visit here!

2. Outlet & Online Options Matter Too

Some moms are seeking value and variety by thinking outside the box.

Albertville Outlet Mall was mentioned, likely for name brands at discounted prices.

Sierra Trading, Under Armour and Shein popped up, indicating some moms are turning to online deals and niche/discount retailers.

3. Specialty Picks for Specific Needs

Children’s Place was called out specifically for “highly-decorated girly tees.”

JCPenney got love for boys’ graphic tees and general back-to-school clothing.

This tells me that when moms can’t find exactly what their kids want (especially with style preferences), they’re willing to go to a specialty store or shop online.

How about you? Do any of these answers fit your shopping style?

Back-to-School Spending? Here’s What Local Parents Are Saying

Hey mamas, it’s that time again — the school supply lists are out, the shoe sizes somehow jumped a full number overnight, and our wallets are bracing for those shopping trips.

Back to School Shopping Survey (done by Mall of America)

Need help with having fun on a budget at the megamall?

Back to School Clothing Survey

1. Budget-Friendly is Key

2. Outlet & Online Options Matter Too

3. Specialty Picks for Specific Needs

Be sure to check out my resources for Back to School savings!

Shop Amazon for Back to School deals here.

Free School Supply Events in the Twin Cities 2025

25 Money-Saving Tips for Back to School Shopping