Is Homeschooling Expensive? [Exact Breakdown of Costs for a Year]

The most expensive cost of homeschooling (for most families) is…curriculum.

The cost of a homeschool curriculum can vary widely, depending on various factors such as the grade level, the subject matter, and the type of curriculum used. However, there are many options available that can help make homeschooling more affordable.

Some families use free or low-cost resources such as public library materials, open educational resources, or online educational programs. Others purchase used curriculum materials or share resources with other homeschooling families. In this way, they can save money and make homeschooling more affordable.

However, it is important to remember that while there are ways to reduce the cost of homeschooling, it is still an investment in your child’s education. Also, you’ll be using the curriculum for two or three hours during the day. If you don’t like your program, it makes home education more difficult.

Schoolhouse Teachers is a great and affordable homeschool program, while Easy-Peasy is a free one.

Min Homeschool Curriculum Expenses: $0 with a free curriculum.

Max Homeschool Curriculum Expenses: $1300.

School Supplies  Expenses

The amount a person can expect to pay for school supplies can vary widely depending on the needs and preferences of the family.

For a bare minimum, a family can expect to spend around $100-$200 per year on school supplies such as pencils, pens, notebooks, folders, glue, scissors, and other basic materials. This assumes the family already has access to a computer or tablet, printer, and internet connection.

On the higher end, a family may choose to invest in more expensive supplies such as high-quality art materials, science equipment, or specialized software. In this case, the costs can easily reach $500 or more per year.

Remember that the more children you have, the lower the cost per child will be, as children can share many of these supplies, thus reducing your homeschool expenses.

Min School Supplies Expenses: $100 with a free curriculum.

Max School Supplies Expenses: $500.

Extracurricular Activities Costs

Co-op and Classes Costs

A homeschooling co-op or class can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several thousand dollars per year, depending on the program and location. Some co-ops or classes are free or low-cost, while others can be quite expensive.

At the lower end of the cost spectrum, some co-ops or classes may only charge a small fee to cover materials or facility rentals. On the higher end, some programs may charge tuition or membership fees, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per year.

It’s important to note that some co-ops or classes may also require additional expenses, such as textbooks, materials, or uniforms, which can add to the overall cost.

To keep costs down, some homeschooling families opt for at-home classes or online courses, which can be more affordable than in-person programs. Additionally, some co-ops may offer scholarships or financial assistance to families in need.

Min Co-op/Classes Expenses: $10 per class or $200/year.

Max Co-op/Classes Expenses: $200 per class or $3000/ year.

Technology, Software, and Apps Costs

At a minimum, a homeschooling family will need a reliable computer or laptop, which can cost anywhere from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the features and specifications. For example, a basic laptop suitable for homeschooling may cost around $300 to $500, while a high-end model with advanced features such as a touchscreen, stylus, and graphics card can cost upwards of $2,000.

In addition to a computer or laptop, families may also need other technology tools, such as printers, scanners, or tablets, which can also add to the overall cost.

To keep costs down, some homeschooling families purchase refurbished or used equipment or borrow or share technology resources with other homeschooling families in their community. Additionally, some programs or co-ops may provide access to technology tools as part of their program fees.

It’s also important to consider ongoing costs, such as software subscriptions, internet access, and maintenance or repair expenses.

Min Technology Expenses: $500 laptop, printer, internet. It may not be this high every year. Multiply depending on if you want each child to have a laptop of his own or not.

Max Technology Expenses: $3000 initially.

Furniture Expenses

At a minimum, a homeschooling family will need a dining room table for the children to do their work on. But this won’t cost any extra, given you probably already have one!

If you want things to be comfortable and don’t want a mess in your house every day, consider getting a desk or table and chairs with storage units to organize educational materials.

The cost of these items can vary widely, depending on the quality and style. For example, a basic desk or table may cost around $50 to $100, while a high-quality ergonomic chair can cost upwards of $500.

Other furniture items that may be helpful for a homeschooling space include bookcases, shelving units, and storage bins. These items can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the size, materials, and style.

To keep costs down, some homeschooling families repurpose existing furniture or purchase second-hand items from thrift stores or online marketplaces. Additionally, some families may use multi-functional furniture items, such as a dining room table that doubles as a workspace.

Min Furniture Expenses:$0 if using the dining room. ONE-OFF COST.

Mid Furniture Expenses: $50-100 for an inexpensive desk and chair setup.

Max Furniture Expenses:$2000 for a wow homeschool room setup.

Other Expenses

There are also other expenses that you might incur when homeschooling. I’ve listed a full list of expenses you might come across further down the page along with instructions on how you can effectively write out a homeschool budget.

Is Homeschooling Expensive Compared to Public School

On the face of it, you would say homeschooling would be more expensive than public school. But this isn’t always the case.

Public schools often require parents to cover many extra costs like uniforms and extras on top of sometimes buying their own technological gear.

So, homeschooling can be less expensive than public school, depending on the family’s specific circumstances.

If a parent can provide instruction and materials without paying for expensive curriculum or programs, homeschooling can be very affordable.

However, if a parent chooses to purchase an expensive pre-made curriculum or pay for private tutoring, homeschooling can become more expensive than public school.

Is Homeschooling Expensive Compared to Private School

Most people would regard homeschooling as being significantly less expensive compared to private school.

Homeschooling can be less expensive than private school, but it can also be more expensive depending on the family’s choices. Private schools often charge tuition, which can be quite costly. Homeschooling can be more affordable if a family chooses a low-cost curriculum or decides to create their own materials.

However, if a family chooses to hire private tutors or purchase a high-end curriculum, homeschooling can become more expensive than private school.

Is Homeschooling Expensive Compared to Unschooling