How Much Does Homeschooling Cost?

June 9, 2026 byConnections Academy

6 min to read

If you’re thinking about homeschooling, you’re likely weighing what’s best for your child and what it means for your family. And one of the biggest considerations is what it will actually cost. The honest answer? It depends on how you choose to do it.

Because homeschooling is flexible by design, the total cost of educating your child can vary greatly. Many families spend anywhere from $500 to $2,500+ per child annually, depending on how you structure your child’s education.

What Affects the Cost of Homeschooling?

Every homeschooling experience looks a little different. Your total cost will depend on things like:

How many children you’re teaching
The type of curriculum you choose
What technology you already have at home
How much outside support you use (like tutors)
The kinds of extracurricular activities your child takes part in

Some families prefer to keep costs low using free resources; others invest in a more structured experience with added support. There’s no one “right” way, just what works best for you. Understanding what drives those costs—and how they break down—can help you begin to build a projected budget.

What Are the Main Costs of Homeschooling?

Here’s a closer look at the most common expenses that families plan for.

Curriculum & Books

This is one of the most flexible categories. For many families, curriculum is the biggest ongoing cost. You might spend $200 to $1,200+ per year, depending on whether you choose a structured, all-in-one program or mix free and paid resources to reduce costs.

School Supplies and Technology

Once you’ve chosen a curriculum, you’ll also need the tools to support it. This includes basic supplies like notebooks and art materials, as well as technology such as printers or educational software. You can expect to spend between $100–$800+ per year, with additional one-time or occasional expenses for devices like laptops or tablets if you don’t already have them.

Tutors or Extra Instruction

Depending on your schedule, ability (or comfort) teaching specific subjects, or your child’s needs, you may decide to bring in outside support from tutors, who can cost anywhere from $20–$80 per hour. Not every family uses tutors, but they can be a helpful supplement.

Extracurricular Activities

Learning doesn’t stop with academics. Many homeschooling families also look for opportunities that help their child explore their interests, build confidence, and connect with others. Activities like sports, music lessons, field trips, and homeschool co-ops can cost an additional $100–$1,000+ per year. While these are optional, they offer important opportunities for your child to build and grow vital relationships with others their age.

Other Costs to Consider

Smaller expenses can add up over time. These might include:

Testing or assessment fees
Memberships or learning subscriptions
Transportation for activities

Individually, they may seem minor, but they’re worth factoring in.

What Are the Hidden Costs of Homeschooling?

While direct expenses are easier to track, it’s equally important to consider any indirect costs of homeschooling.

For example, some families adjust their work schedules or rely on a single income so one parent can take on teaching responsibilities. Others may notice higher utility bills or grocery costs simply because children are at home during the day.

Is There a Tuition-Free Alternative with Similar Flexibility?

For families who like the flexibility of homeschooling but want structure and built-in support, there are other options to consider. One alternative is tuition-free online public school, such as Connections Academy, which offers:

A full-time, accredited curriculum at no cost · State-certified teachers who guide instruction and track progress
Online learning that can be done from home
Opportunities to make social connections and create community

Connections Academy also gives parents the chance to play a greater role in their child’s education by acting as their student’s Learning Coach.

Making the Right Choice for Your Family

Homeschooling can be a flexible, personalized way to support your child’s learning, but it’s helpful to go in with a clear understanding of both the costs and the day-to-day commitment involved.

For some families, the ability to shape their child’s education is worth the added expense and responsibility. For others, finding a balance between flexibility, structure, and support becomes just as important as the cost itself. Exploring a range of options to find out what works best is key.

Whether you choose to homeschool or look into alternatives like online public school, the goal is the same: finding an approach that fits your lifestyle, supports your child’s learning, and helps them grow with confidence.

Want to learn more about Connections Academy and how it may meet the needs of your child and your family? Start today by finding the Connections Academy near you.

FAQs About Homeschooling Costs

Is homeschooling cheaper than public school?

Unfortunately, there’s no straightforward answer to this question, since your family’s homeschooling costs will heavily depend on how you approach it. Families considering homeschooling should budget for out-of-pocket costs that can include those for premade curriculums, school and technology materials, extracurricular activities and more.