What does this measure?

Total spending by public school districts, divided by total pupils.

Why is this important?

Higher spending for schools can mean better facilities, programs, and a greater range of opportunities available to students. It may also signal public support for education and a better paid, more experienced teaching workforce. However, studies have found higher spending does not necessarily lead to higher student achievement, given the many factors that contribute to student success, including parental and community influences.

How is our county doing?

In 2018, school districts in Essex County spent about $16,000 per student, less than the statewide level of $16,800. This was a 13% increase, since 2008, in Essex County and 14% in the state.

The highest spending districts in Essex County were Greater Lawrence Regional Vocational Technical ($22,200) and Whittier Regional Vocational Technical ($21,000 per student). Outside the vocational schools, spending was highest in Salem ($19,500) and lowest in North Andover and Haverhill ($13,400 and $13,700 respectively).

How do we compare to similar counties?

Essex County's spending was below Middlesex, MA, which spent $17,700 per student and in Westchester, NY ($28,200) in 2018.

Notes about the data

Figures have been adjusted to 2019 dollars. Per pupil expenditures are calculated by dividing a district's operating costs by its average enrollment across the school year. Comparable data were not available for Lake, IL.