Back To School: How Much Are You Paying For School Supplies?

by Ian Bush

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The back-to-school circulars are coming thick and fast -- and for good reason: a survey says we're expected to spend more than last year on classroom supplies.

How much for all those pens, pencils, notebooks, clothes?

"We're forecasting an average spend per family of $488," says Bill Park with Deloitte in Philadelphia.

He says their survey finds one-in-three families is picking up a computer, tablet, or phone in time for the new school year, and will fork over less for those analog supplies.

Much of the research for best deals is digital.

"Maybe to get some coupons online. But they look like they're going to be very comfortable going out to the store to spend the money for back-to-school. So that's good news for the brick-and-mortar retailers," said Park.

Department stores, alongside office supply and dollar stores, are the most popular for the in-person shop: many of them make sure to stock the things on lists provided by local schools, so it's easier to grab and get back to the beach.