Want to know exactly what homeschooling will cost in 2024? Here's the quick answer:
Most families spend $700-$2,800 per child yearly on homeschooling. That's way cheaper than private school ($5,000-$70,000).
Here's your 5-step budget plan:
| Step | What You'll Spend | How to Save |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Basic Learning | $350-1,000 | Use library resources |
| 2. School Supplies | $200-500 | Buy during sales |
| 3. Extra Activities | $300-1,300 | Join co-ops |
| 4. Monthly Planning | Varies | Split big costs |
| 5. Money-Saving | Save 40-60% | Buy used materials |
Quick Cost Breakdown:
| Must-Have Item | Annual Cost |
|---|---|
| Core Curriculum | $200-800 |
| Books & Supplies | $200-700 |
| Field Trips | $150-300 |
| Activities | $150-1,000 |
Want to save money? Start with these:
- Check your library (free 24-week loans)
- Join co-ops (split costs with other families)
- Buy used curriculum (save 40-60%)
- Get tax breaks (available in IL, IN, LA, MN, OH)
In this guide, I'll show you exactly how to budget for homeschooling without going broke. Let's dive in.
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Getting Started
Let's set up your 2024 homeschool budget. Here's what you need:
Money Records You Need
| Financial Records | Why You Need Them |
|---|---|
| Bank Statements | Shows what you spend on education now |
| Income Records | Tells you how much you can spend monthly |
| Tax Documents | Helps find education tax breaks |
| Aid Information | Lists any homeschool grants you get |
Current Costs
Here's what most families spend money on:
| Expense Type | What Goes Here |
|---|---|
| Core Learning | Books, workbooks, online classes |
| Supplies | Paper, pens, art stuff |
| Activities | Sports, music, field trips |
| Tech | Internet, devices, software |
Learning Goals & Costs
The numbers you need to know:
| Subject | What It Costs |
|---|---|
| Math | Curriculum ($350-800), hands-on tools |
| Reading | Books ($150-300), online programs |
| Science | Lab gear ($200-400), experiment sets |
| Arts | Supplies ($150-300), classes |
Here's what families spend on average (based on Deloitte's 2020 survey):
- Basic supplies cost about $800
- Main curriculum runs $350-1,000
- Tech stuff needs $200-500
- Extra activities cost $150-1,000
Want to save money? Check out Homeschool Directory for free stuff before you buy anything.
Smart money move: Set up monthly transfers for big purchases like your yearly curriculum. This way, you won't feel the pinch when it's time to buy.
Step 1: Figure Out Basic Learning Costs
Here's what you'll need to spend on homeschooling in 2024:
Core Curriculum Costs
The price depends on what type of curriculum you pick:
| Curriculum Type | Annual Cost | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| BJU Press Online | $969 | Complete grade package (all subjects) |
| BJU Press K5 | $589 | Full kindergarten program |
| Single Subject | $339 | One subject package |
| K12 Online | $0 | State-certified teaching, standard school calendar |
| Time4Learning | $200-400 | Core subjects package |
Books and Materials
Here's what you'll pay for learning materials:
| Item | Cost Range | How to Save |
|---|---|---|
| New Textbooks | $40-100 each | Shop during sales |
| Used Books | $15-45 each | Check Homeschool Directory |
| Workbooks | $10-30 each | Buy packages |
| Reading Books | $150-300/year | Mix library books with must-buy texts |
Digital Learning Tools
Most families spend this much on online tools:
| Tool Type | Monthly Cost | Yearly Total |
|---|---|---|
| Math Programs | $15-25 | $180-300 |
| Reading Apps | $10-20 | $120-240 |
| Science Platforms | $20-30 | $240-360 |
| All-Subject Platforms | $30-40 | $360-480 |
Educational Apps
What you'll spend on subject-specific apps:
| Subject | Number of Apps | Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Math | 2-3 apps | $50-150 |
| Reading | 1-2 apps | $30-100 |
| Science | 2-3 apps | $40-120 |
| Languages | 1-2 apps | $60-180 |
Here's the good news: The National Home Education Research Institute says families spend about $600 per year on average - WAY less than these maximum prices.
Want to make it easier on your budget? Many curriculum providers (like BJU Press) let you split that $969 into monthly payments with 0% interest.
Step 2: List School Supply Needs
Here's what you need to buy and how much to set aside for each category.
Basic Supplies List
These are the everyday items most homeschool parents buy:
| Supply Category | Items | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Writing Tools | Ticonderoga pencils, pens, markers | $30-50 |
| Paper Products | Notebooks, lined paper, printer paper | $40-60 |
| Art Materials | Paint, brushes, poster board, clay | $50-100 |
| Basic Tools | Scissors, staplers, hole punch | $25-40 |
| Learning Aids | Dry erase boards, flash cards | $35-55 |
Tech Needs
You'll need these tech tools to make homeschooling work:
| Item | Purpose | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Laptop | Online learning, research | $400-600 |
| Printer | Worksheets, assignments | $60-70 |
| Headphones | Online classes, focus | $20-30 |
| Tablet | Educational apps, reading | $200-300 |
Storage Items
Here's how to keep everything in its place:
| Storage Solution | Use Case | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Storage Cube Units | Books, craft supplies | $40-60 |
| Paper Trays | Assignment organization | $15-25 |
| Supply Caddies | Art materials | $20-30 |
| Book Shelves | Curriculum storage | $50-80 |
Printing Needs
Get ready for these regular printing costs:
| Item | Monthly Cost | Yearly Total |
|---|---|---|
| Paper | $10-15 | $120-180 |
| Ink/Toner | $20-25 | $240-300 |
| Laminating Supplies | $5-10 | $60-120 |
Want to save money? Here's how:
- Shop during August back-to-school sales
- Check Homeschool Directory for tech deals
- Pick a laser printer over inkjet (costs more now, saves money later)
- Stack your storage to save space
- Buy paper and basic supplies in bulk
Step 3: Add Extra Learning Costs
Here's what you'll need to budget beyond your basic supplies and curriculum.
Field Trips
| Type | Average Cost | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Museums | $10-20/visit | Join Museums for All with EBT card |
| Nature Parks | $5-15/visit | Get Every Kid Outdoors pass (4th graders) |
| Science Centers | $15-25/visit | Buy annual membership |
| Local Tours | Free-$10 | Contact businesses for group rates |
Activities and Classes
| Activity | Monthly Cost | Yearly Total |
|---|---|---|
| Music Lessons | $160 (4 lessons) | $1,440 |
| Ballet/Gymnastics | $40 | $360 |
| Homeschool Band | $32 | $385 + instrument |
| Sports Teams | $30-50 | $270-450 |
Testing and Evaluation
| Test Type | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tests | $25-75 | Per student |
| Test Administrator | $25-50 | Additional fee |
| Private Evaluations | $50-200 | Varies by provider |
Group Programs
| Type | Cost | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Co-op | $100-150 | 2 children |
| Standard Co-op | $730 | 3 children |
| Premium Co-op | $1,000 | Per child |
| Building Use | $60-100/month | 8-month programs |
| Supply Fees | $15-25/month | Materials included |
Don't forget these smaller costs:
- Lab fees: $50
- Art supplies: $25/semester
- Pizza lunch: $1.25-2.25/slice
- Background check: $10
- Volunteer opt-out: $50/day
Want to cut costs? Here's how:
- Check Homeschool Directory for group deals
- Team up with local homeschool groups
- Use free community programs
- Visit places during off-peak hours
- Get bundle deals on memberships
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Step 4: Plan Monthly Spending
Here's how to break down your homeschool costs into manageable monthly chunks.
Split Up Yearly Costs
Most homeschool expenses come as yearly bills. But you can split them into monthly payments:
| Expense Type | Example Cost | Monthly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Curriculum | $500/year | $41.67 |
| Learning Pod | $75-200/week | $300-800 |
| Co-op Membership | $730/year | $60.83 |
| Testing Fees | $75/year | $6.25 |
Save for Big Expenses
Want to buy something big? Here's what to do:
- Pick your target date: When do you need the item?
- Count the months: How long until then?
- Do the math: Total cost ÷ months
- Set it up: Make it automatic
"We spend about $500 on curriculum purchased before the school year, which includes lesson plans and all books needed for all subjects." - Rachel Sheridan, Homeschooling Mom
Payment Options That Work
| Payment Option | Details | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Klarna Credit | 0-33.99% APR | Curriculum purchases |
| Monthly Plan | 6 payments of $16.67 per $100 | Smaller amounts |
| Full Payment | One-time cost | Bulk discounts |
| Planned Payments | 6-36 month terms | Large purchases |
Build Your Safety Net
Keep some extra cash ready for unexpected costs:
| Emergency Fund | Amount to Save | What It Covers |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Buffer | $200-300 | Supply refills |
| Mid-Range Fund | $500-700 | Equipment repairs |
| Full Reserve | $1,000+ | Curriculum changes |
"We could choose not to do the in-person learning community, or the extra classes we are taking, and instead do more learning at home, together, as a family community." - Hannah Mack, Co-founder of the Dandelion Project
Smart Ways to Save:
- Check Homeschool Directory for deals
- Buy in bulk when prices drop
- Team up with other parents for group buys
- Save those receipts - they matter at tax time
Step 5: Save Money Where You Can
Here's how to cut your homeschool costs without cutting corners:
Buy Used Materials
Most homeschool families spend too much on new materials. Here's where to get quality used items:
| Platform | Best For | Average Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Homeschool Classifieds | Hard-to-find materials | 40-60% off retail |
| Thrift Books | Reading materials | Under $4/book |
| Paperback Swap | Literature exchange | Shipping cost only |
| eBay (verified sellers) | Complete curriculum sets | 30-50% off retail |
Team Up With Other Families
Working with other families isn't just about saving money - it's about building a community. But the savings ARE nice:
| Method | Savings | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Co-op Swaps | 50-70% | Exchange yearly materials |
| Group Purchases | 15-25% | Bulk order discounts |
| Library Sharing | $0 extra | Share membership perks |
| Equipment Pools | Split costs | Share printers/tools |
Use Homeschool Directory
This site is a goldmine for:
- Current deals on curriculum
- Digital bundles
- Group buying options
- Sale alerts
Get Free Stuff
Don't pay for what you can get free:
| Resource | Where to Look | What's Included |
|---|---|---|
| Library Access | Local branches | Books, audiobooks, online materials |
| Totally Free Tuesday | Email lists | Weekly free materials |
| Freebie Friday | Online groups | Limited-time paid products |
| HSLDA Account | HSLDA.org | Free tools and resources |
Buy Smart in Bulk
Here's what to stock up on:
| Item Type | Minimum Order | Money Saved |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Supplies | 3-month stock | 20-30% |
| Paper Products | Case quantities | 25-40% |
| Art Materials | Class packs | 35-45% |
| Digital Licenses | Multi-user | 15-25% |
"If your homeschool group isn't doing curriculum swaps, you're missing out. It's the BEST way I've found to get books for less."
Quick Money-Saving Tips:
- Join "Homeschool Curriculum Free for Shipping" on Facebook
- Hit local homeschool sales in spring
- Use Thrift Books' free shipping ($10+ orders)
- Watch Facebook curriculum buy/sell/trade groups
Watch Your Spending
Here's a simple way to keep your homeschool budget in check:
Check Monthly Costs
Track every dollar you spend. Here's what matters:
| What to Track | How to Track | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Costs | YNAB or Excel | Monthly payments like curriculum and co-ops |
| Daily Expenses | Save receipts | Books, supplies, field trips |
| Surprise Costs | Set aside cash | Those "I need it now" moments |
| Future Funds | Budget app | Save for big items |
3-Month Reviews
Look at your spending every 3 months:
| Review Area | Action Steps | Target Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | Compare plan vs reality | Know where to cut back |
| Supplies | Count what's left | Buy in bulk when smart |
| Activities | Check what kids actually use | Drop what they don't need |
| Savings | Look at progress | Fix monthly savings amount |
Update Your Plan
Make these changes when the numbers don't work:
- Pick payment plans that save money
- Move funds where you ACTUALLY need them
- Keep extra cash for surprises
- Stop paying for stuff you don't use
"We cut our spending from $2,400 to $1,600 a month just by changing HOW we paid for things." - Matt Miner, Financial Advisor
Use Budget Tools
Pick tools that make sense for you:
| Tool Type | Best For | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| YNAB | Day-to-day tracking | $99/year |
| Excel | DIY planning | Free-$10 |
| Cash Envelopes | Supply money | Free |
| Receipt Apps | Sorting expenses | $0-5/month |
"Start budgeting NOW - don't wait for the perfect plan." - Matt Miner, Financial Advisor
Pro Tip: Split your money this way: 10% give, 20% save, 20% extra stuff, 50% must-haves.
Extra Money Tips
Want to save money on homeschooling? Here's what works:
Family Discounts
Big companies offer sweet deals for homeschool families:
| Company | Discount | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | Up to 75% off | Proof of homeschool status |
| Adobe | 75% off | Valid homeschool ID |
| Barnes & Noble | 20% off | Educator card (2-year) |
| Microsoft | 75% off | Homeschool verification |
Tax Savings
These states give homeschoolers a break on taxes:
| State | Tax Break Type | What You Get |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | State credit | Education expenses |
| Indiana | Tax credit | Qualified costs |
| Louisiana | Deduction | School supplies |
| Minnesota | Credit | Teaching materials |
| Ohio | Credit | Education expenses |
"I know there aren't many tax deductions available, but these options can help you get back some of what you spend on classroom supplies." - Misty Bailey, Southeast Homeschool Expo
Smart Money Moves
Check out these $0 and low-cost options:
| Resource | What You Get | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Khan Academy | Full K-12 courses | Free |
| Open Stax | High school textbooks | Free |
| Home Depot | STEAM projects | Free |
| PBS Kids | Educational games | Free |
Local Savings
Your community's got your back:
| Resource | Savings Option | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Library | Extended loans | Borrow up to 24 weeks |
| Costco | Bulk supplies | Buy yearly items |
| Used book sales | Cheap materials | Set eBay alerts |
| Museum passes | Group rates | Check library programs |
Pro tip: Hit up Homeschool Directory for free worksheets and materials BEFORE spending money on new ones.
Wrap-Up
Here's what you need to know about your 2024 homeschool budget:
| Step | What to Do | How to Save |
|---|---|---|
| Core Learning | Choose curriculum, books | Borrow from library (24-week loans) |
| Basic Supplies | Get essentials, tech | Costco bulk deals |
| Activities | Plan trips, co-ops | Group rates at museums |
| Monthly Budget | Break down yearly costs | Start a sinking fund |
| Save Money | Buy used | Check Homeschool Directory |
Track Your Money
| When | Do This | Use These |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Check spending | Excel templates |
| Every 3 months | Compare to plan | Google Sheets |
| Yearly | Update needs | NerdWallet |
| Shopping | Find deals | Bookfinder |
Stay on Track
| Check When | Look At | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | Basic costs | Know your spending |
| Every 3 months | Big costs | Plan for trips |
| Each season | Supplies | Buy during sales |
| Year end | Total costs | Plan next year |
"Don't wait for the perfect budget. Start with a simple plan for your family." - Matt Miner, MBA, CFP®
Key Numbers:
- Public school supply costs: $800/year
- Homeschool costs: $200-$2000 per child/year
- Library books: $0 with card
Money-Saving Tips:
- Set eBay alerts
- Join Rakuten
- Use YNAB
- Get free worksheets from Consumer.gov
FAQs
How to financially homeschool?
Here's what homeschooling costs - and how to make it work for your budget:
| Cost Area | Average Range | Money-Saving Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Core Curriculum | $350-$750 | Use library resources, buy used |
| Materials | $150-$300 | Buy during tax-free days |
| Field Trips | $100-$250 | Get group discounts |
| Extra Activities | $100-$500 | Join co-ops for shared costs |
"Technically, you could homeschool with just a library card!" - Rebekah McBride, Everyday Homemaking
Is homeschooling expensive in USA?
Let's look at the numbers. Homeschooling costs WAY less than other options:
| Type of Schooling | Annual Cost (2021) |
|---|---|
| Private School | $11,645 |
| Public School | $15,205 |
| Homeschooling | $500-$3,500 |
Want to save even more? Here's what different states offer:
- Indiana gives you up to $1,000 in deductions
- Louisiana offers up to $5,000 in deductions
- Iowa provides a 25% tax credit on materials (max $500)
- Illinois gives a 25% credit on expenses over $250
- Minnesota offers credits for K-12 standard subjects
Here's what you'll spend on basics:
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Math Program | $75-150 |
| Science Kit | $70-150 |
| Language Arts | $50-100 |
| History Bundle | $130-200 |
| Extra Materials | $100-200 |
Pro tip: Got multiple kids? Teaching the same subjects to children close in age cuts your per-student costs by 40-60%.
