B.C. parents are expected to spend less than the national average on their children going back to school, according to a Scotiabank study.
Parents in B.C. are expected to spend an average $273 on school supplies and clothing, less than the national average of $310. Their spending is just above the average $266 Ontario parents expect to spend, which is the lowest in the country. Quebec parents expect to spend the most at $399 per child, followed by Alberta ($338) and parents in Atlantic Canada ($322).
B.C. parents will spend the most of their money on stationary and clothing, but are among the least likely to spend back-to-school money on electronic purchases. Only 16% plan to buy electronics versus the national average of 18% and 26% in Alberta.
They also expect to spend an average $390 on school-related incidentals like field trips and pizza lunches, less than the national average of $406. Alberta parents expect to spend the most at $471 per child, followed by Ontario ($421) and Quebec ($400).