Homecoming is one of the most exciting events of the school year students look forward to. The dancing, the photos, the music and the memories made. But as the lights glimmer across the gym and everyone shows off their attire, there’s another side to the night that doesn’t always make it onto social media. the cost.
For most students, homecoming isn’t just some random dance in the beginning of the year. It’s a big financial commitment. Between purchasing a ticket, finding the right clothing, paying for hairstyling, makeup, and even the cost of dinner or transportation. These expenses can add up quickly.
This school year, tickets for Tahoma High School’s homecoming dance ranged from around $25–$40 per person, depending on how soon or later students bought them. For a majority , that was manageable. But for others, it was just the beginning of a long list of costs.
The Price of the “Perfect” Night
Symphony, a current junior who works part-time after school, started saving a month ahead of time so she could afford everything she wanted for the night.
“I saved for about a month to purchase a dress and accessories that matched perfectly,” she said. “But regardless it was definitely worth it because, at the end of the day, it wasn’t about all the money I spent , but more the long memories I’ll have made with friends.”
Symphony said she wanted to feel bold and of course comfortable at the dance, even if it meant spending more than she initially planned. For her, the investment was part of having a memorable experience, something she’ll remember long after high school.
However not every student feels the same.
Celine, a senior, said that while she loved getting dressed up and spending time with her friends for the dance, the costs made her think twice about whether to go.
“Tickets were pretty pricey, and then finding a dress on top of that made it even harder,” she explained. “It was fun, but I definitely noticed how fast everything added up.”
When Fun Meets Financial Pressure
Some students feel the pressure to look “picture perfect” at homecoming, often amplified by social media, or peers. Which can make the event feel more stressful than enjoyable. Scrolling through Instagram or TikTok, it’s easy to see classmates showing off expensive dresses, professionally done hair, and coordinated group photos.
That pressure can leave others feeling like they have to go over the top and spend money to fit in.
“Everyone wants to look good,” said Emma . “It’s not like you want to show up underdressed, especially when everyone’s posting pictures.”
According to a 2023 survey by “YOUgov”, the average high school student spends between $100 and $200 on homecoming-related expenses, including tickets, clothing, and transportation. For families with multiple children or tight budgets, that can be a real challenge.
Schools Try to Help
To make the event more accessible for more students, some schools have started creative initiatives to cut costs. For example, for Tahoma high school, the cinderella project where students have the opportunity to browse dresses to wear for homecoming and keep for free. , where students can donate gently used formal wear, are becoming more common.
Still, at many schools, ticket prices have gone up in recent years due to the rising costs of DJs, and decorations. Balancing affordability with quality remains a challenge for student councils and school organizers.
The Memories That Matter
Despite the financial stress, most students agree that homecoming is still a highlight of the school year, since it’s a chance to dress up, dance with friends, and take a break from the routine of classes and homework.
“It’s one night that feels special,” Symphony said. “You can’t really put a price on that.”
For students like her, the memories outlast the receipts. Still, as prices continue to rise, many believe it’s worth talking about how to make homecoming more inclusive, so that every student, no matter their budget, can share in the fun. After all, homecoming is supposed to bring everyone together, not make anyone feel left out.
