U.S. Public Education Spending Statistics

Report Highlights. Public education spending in the United States falls short of global benchmarks and lags behind economic growth; K-12 schools spend $794.7 billion or $16,080 per pupil annually.

  • Federal, state, and local governments provide $810.0 billion or $16,390 per pupil to fund K-12 public education.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $15.3 billion or $310 per pupil.
  • The federal government provides 10.5% of funding for public K-12 education.
  • Public postsecondary schools spend an average of $28,980 per pupil.
  • The national gross domestic product (GDP) grows 13.5% faster than public education budgets.

*Percentage totals do not always equal 100 due to rounding.

Jump to a State: AL | AK | AZ | CA | CO | CT | DE | FL | GA | HI | ID | IL | IN | IA | KS | KY | LA | ME | MD | MA | MI | MN | MS | MO | MT | NE | NV | NH | NJ | NM | NY | NC | ND | OH | OK | OR | PA | RI | SC | SD | TN | TX | UT | VT | VA | WA | WV | WI | WY

National Map: Public K-12 Spending Per Student, by state

Related research includes Number of Public Schools in the US | K-12 Enrollment and Student Population | Average Cost of Private School | Average Cost of College | Average Cost of Community College

Line Graph: Historical Nationwide Public K-12 Spending Per Pupil from 2009-10 ($10,636 or $12,914 when adjusted for inflation to 2021 US$) to 2018-19 ($13,187 or $13,701 when adjusted for inflation to 2021 US$

Public Education Spending Statistics

Public education spending at the national level services 49.4 million K-12 students and 14.5 million postsecondary students. It is normal for spending totals to undercut public funding totals to a degree.

  • K-12 public schools spend $16,080 per pupil.
  • Public K-12 expenditures total $794.7 billion.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.57% of taxpayer income.
  • K-12 schools nationwide receive $85.3 billion total or $1,730 per pupil from the federal government.
  • States contribute a total of $367.1 billion to K-12 public education or $7,430 per student.
  • Local governments contribute $357.5 billion total, or $7,230 per student.
  • Federal public education funding is equivalent to 0.38% of total taxpayer income.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.26%.
  • Funding for K-12 education totals $810.0 billion or $16,390 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $15.3 billion, or $310 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $29,980 per pupil, 27.5% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,290 per pupil, up 6.64% year-over-year (YoY).
  • States and local governments contribute a combined $8,030.
  • Tuition accounts for 19.5% of all funding.
  • 6.00% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • 2-year public institutions spend 14.6% of what 4-year public colleges spend annually.

U.S. and World Education Spending

In the United States, education spending falls short of benchmarks set by international organizations such as UNESCO, of which the U.S. is a member. The nation puts 12.7% of public funding toward education, well below the international standard 15.00%.

  • Schools in the United States spend an average of $19,380 per pupil, which is the 2nd-highest amount per pupil (after adjusting to local currency values) among the 37 other developed nations in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
  • In terms of a percentage of its gross domestic product (GDP), the United States ranks 14th among OECD members in spending on elementary education.
  • The United States does not meet UNESCO’s benchmark of a 15.00% share of total public expenditure on education.
  • In terms of early childhood education, the United States is one of eight (8) countries that do not report any educational spending.
  • Luxembourg spends US$25,430 per pupil, which is more than any of the other OECD nations spend on education.
  • African nations spend the highest amount on education in terms of a percentage of GDP.
  • At 6.00%, the United States spends a larger percentage of its GDP on education than many other North American and European nations, which average 4.85% of GDP in educational spending.
Snapshot: Global Educational Spending Per Pupil
Country Elementary Schools Secondary Schools

Luxembourg

$22,203

$25,141

Korea

$13,341

$15,216

Slovenia

$9,562

$12,037

France

$9,312

$11,825

Spain

$8,580

$10,093

New Zealand

$7,578

$8,521

Colombia

$3,729

$3,708

Mexico

$2,977

$2,546

Public Education Spending by State

Education spending refers to the money spent by public schools. This may include teacher and administrator salaries, supplies, building maintenance, field trips, etc. These numbers refer to how much money has a direct impact on public school students.

  • New York schools spend the most on K-12 education per pupil.
  • California spends the most on postsecondary education.
  • New York also spends the second most on K-12 education in terms of a percentage of local taxpayer income.
  • Alaska K-12 schools spend the most in terms of a percentage of taxpayer income.
  • Vermont K-12 public school students receive the second-most expensive education.
  • Florida K-12 schools spend the least in terms of a percentage of local taxpayer income.
  • Wisconsin makes the most of its funding for K-12 education, having the least funds per pupil left over after spending on students.
Public Educational Spending From Highest to Lowest Total Average Spent Per Pupil
State K-12 Spending Postsecondary Spending

New York

$30,282

$30,293

Vermont

$24,666

$36,914

New Jersey

$23,870

$26,102

Connecticut

$23,455

$39,372

Massachusetts

$22,913

$27,277

Alaska

$21,325

$32,421

Illinois

$20,887

$28,380

Pennsylvania

$20,005

$43,420

Maine

$19,887

$18,813

Wyoming

$19,887

$27,760

New Hampshire

$19,633

$26,246

Rhode Island

$19,582

$21,522

Washington

$19,523

$34,646

District of Columbia

$19,004

$38,416

Maryland

$18,343

$25,203

Oregon

$18,137

$41,705

Hawaii

$17,989

$38,453

North Dakota

$17,921

$26,423

Minnesota

$17,197

$24,316

Kansas

$16,882

$21,746

Nebraska

$16,642

$29,045

Delaware

$16,637

$33,111

California

$16,285

$33,289

Ohio

$16,234

$30,196

Wisconsin

$15,966

$25,166

Colorado

$15,231

$27,266

Virginia

$15,196

$29,665

Iowa

$15,112

$38,516

Montana

$15,035

$26,561

Michigan

$14,549

$40,038

West Virginia

$14,522

$23,834

Kentucky

$14,042

$31,465

South Carolina

$14,038

$27,160

Texas

$13,684

$27,505

Missouri

$13,436

$25,055

Georgia

$13,267

$22,316

New Mexico

$13,229

$26,646

Indiana

$13,189

$23,146

South Dakota

$13,034

$20,519

Louisiana

$12,993

$21,760

Arkansas

$12,386

$31,103

Alabama

$12,092

$33,760

Mississippi

$11,929

$32,881

Florida

$11,773

$18,141

Tennessee

$11,607

$22,187

Nevada

$11,120

$18,524

North Carolina

$10,918

$25,958

Oklahoma

$10,506

$27,142

Utah

$9,479

$39,061

Arizona

$9,072

$20,284

Idaho

$8,748

$17,946

National Map of Public K-12 Spending as a Percentage of State Taxpayer Income

Public Education Funding by State

Educational funding or financing refers to how much money goes into schools, also sometimes referred to as revenue or income. Financing influences spending, but states rarely spend 100% of their public school funding.

  • K-12 schools in Alaska receive the most funding per pupil from the federal government.
  • North Dakota receives the second-most federal funding for K-12 schools.
  • Utah receives the lowest amount per pupil from the federal government.
  • Indiana receives the second-lowest amount per pupil in federal funding.
  • Vermont’s state government spends the most per pupil of any state government to finance education.
  • Hawaii supplies the second-most state funding.
  • Arizona’s state government supplies the lowest amount of educational financing per pupil.
Public Educational Funding Per K-12 Student From Most to Least Federal Funding
State Federal Funding State & Local Funding

Alaska

$3,343

$16,899

North Dakota

$2,876

$15,169

Montana

$2,829

$12,148

Maine

$2,680

$17,574

South Dakota

$2,641

$10,895

Vermont

$2,592

$23,068

Wyoming

$2,512

$18,201

California

$2,485

$15,398

Mississippi

$2,322

$9,734

Kentucky

$2,254

$12,050

West Virginia

$2,167

$13,199

Hawaii

$2,142

$16,578

Louisiana

$2,119

$12,042

Arkansas

$2,023

$10,462

Michigan

$1,996

$13,373

Alabama

$1,963

$10,916

New Mexico

$1,907

$12,280

District of Columbia

$1,874

$16,851

Rhode Island

$1,869

$17,873

Colorado

$1,781

$13,093

Pennsylvania

$1,754

$18,760

Tennessee

$1,740

$10,369

Missouri

$1,720

$12,843

Illinois

$1,711

$20,036

Georgia

$1,699

$12,417

South Carolina

$1,698

$12,831

Iowa

$1,696

$13,838

Florida

$1,681

$10,442

Arizona

$1,637

$7,599

Texas

$1,619

$11,144

Oklahoma

$1,556

$8,942

Washington

$1,549

$17,419

Minnesota

$1,545

$14,947

Idaho

$1,504

$7,964

Nebraska

$1,480

$13,732

New Hampshire

$1,477

$19,369

Ohio

$1,453

$14,269

Oregon

$1,428

$15,604

Kansas

$1,414

$13,906

Virginia

$1,399

$14,021

New York

$1,398

$29,271

Wisconsin

$1,384

$14,590

Maryland

$1,379

$18,371

Delaware

$1,350

$16,346

North Carolina

$1,324

$9,212

Connecticut

$1,313

$23,002

Massachusetts

$1,293

$21,034

Nevada

$1,289

$9,644

New Jersey

$1,280

$23,701

Indiana

$1,154

$12,369

Utah

$922

$8,542

Line Graph: U.S. Department of Education Total Annual Public Education Budget from 1980 ($10.9 billion) to 2021 ($73.5 billion), low in 1999 at $3.5 billion, high in 2010 at $192.3 billion

Public Education Spending in Alabama

Alabama spends less on K-12 education in terms of dollars-per-pupil and in terms of percentage of taxpayers’ personal income. The state ranks 42nd in funding and 40th in school spending.

  • Alabama K-12 schools spend $12,090 per pupil for a total of $9.05 billion annually.
  • That is equivalent to 3.44% of taxpayer income.
  • Alabama K-12 schools receive $1.47 billion from the federal government, or $1,960 per student.
  • State funding totals $5.17 billion or $6,910 per student.
  • Local funding totals $3.00 billion or $4,010 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.10% of Alabama’s taxpayer income.
  • Alabama’s federal education funding is equivalent to 0.56% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Alabama totals $9.6 billion or $12,880 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $588.7 million or $790 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $33,760 per pupil, 20.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,420 per student.
  • State funding and local funding to postsecondary institutions average $7,370 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 22.1% of all funding; this is down 3.30% YoY.
  • 5.21% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Alabama’s 2-year community colleges spend 9.90% of what 4-year public colleges spend annually.

Public Education Spending in Alaska

Alaska spends the most on K-12 education in terms of percentage of taxpayer income and ranks 6th overall in the most spending per pupil. Alaska’s schools rank 11th in funding and are the most dependent on federal funding.

  • Alaskan K-12 public schools spend $21,320 per pupil for a total of $2.77 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 5.42% of taxpayer income.
  • Alaska K-12 schools receive $434.4 million, or $3,340 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.64 billion or $12,590 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $560.1 million or $4,310 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 4.29% of Alaska’s taxpayer income.
  • Alaska’s federal education funding is equivalent to 0.85% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Alaska totals $2.63 billion or $20,240 per pupil.
  • Alaska school spending exceeds funding by $140.6 million or $1,080 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $34,360 per pupil, 30.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $5,980 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $17,220 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 16.5% of all funding, which is a 4.34% increase YoY.
  • 3.58% of all postsecondary funding in Alaska comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.

Public Education Spending in Arizona

Arizona schools spend less on K-12 education than the national average. The state’s government also spends less on education per capita. Arizona ranks 50th in spending and last in funding.

  • Arizona K-12 schools spend $9,070 per pupil for a total of $10.3 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.40% of taxpayer income.
  • Arizona K-12 schools receive $1.86 billion, or $1,640 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.16 billion or $3,670 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.45 billion or $3,930 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.01% of Arizona’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.43% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Arizona totals $10.5 billion or $9,240 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $186.6 million or $160 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $20,280 per pupil, 32.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,680 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,510 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 34.3% of all funding, which is a 0.36% decrease from the previous year.
  • 5.54% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Arizona’s 2-year community colleges spend 24.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public K-12 Federal Funding Per Student

Public Education Spending in Arkansas

Arkansas schools spend less per K-12 pupil than the national average. The state ranks 41st in spending and 42nd in funding.

  • Arkansas K-12 schools spend $12,390 per pupil for a total of $6.06 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.73% of taxpayer income.
  • Arkansas K-12 schools receive $990.4 million, or $2,020 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.34 billion or $8,860 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $783.2 million or $1,600 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.15% of Arkansas’ taxpayer income.
  • Arkansas’ federal education funding is equivalent to 0.61% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Arkansas totals $6.11 billion or $12,480 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $48.3 million or $100 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $31,100 per pupil, 21.9% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,900 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,250 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 13.8% of all funding, which is a 3.09% decrease from the previous year.
  • 6.82% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Arkansas’ 2-year community colleges spend 11.7% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in California

California receives 13.2% of all educational funding for U.S. public primary schools. With 5.96 million students enrolled statewide, California schools receive comparatively little federal funding per K-12 student. The state ranks 23rd in spending and 18th in funding.

  • California K-12 schools spend $16,290 per pupil for a total of $97.1 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.17% of taxpayer income.
  • California K-12 schools receive $14.81 billion, or $2,480 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $55.4 billion or $9,300 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $36.3 billion or $6,100 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.99% of California’s taxpayer income.
  • California’s federal education funding is equivalent to 0.48% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in California totals $106.6 billion or $17,880 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $9.5 billion or $1,600 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $33,290 per pupil, 22.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,860 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $9,590 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 11.9% of all funding, which is a 6.51% decline from the previous year.
  • 2.89% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • California’s 2-year community colleges spend 22.2% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public K-12 State Funding Per Student

Public Education Spending in Colorado

Colorado K-12 schools spend less per pupil than the national average. Colorado ranks 26th in spending and 31st in funding.

  • K-12 schools spend $15,230 per pupil for a total of $13.4 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.04% of taxpayer income.
  • Colorado K-12 schools receive $1.57 billion, or $1,780 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.83 billion or $5,490 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $6.70 billion, or $7,600 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.62% of Colorado’s taxpayer income.
  • Colorado’s federal education funding is equivalent to 0.36% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Colorado totals $13.1 billion, or $14,870 per pupil.
  • Colorado school spending exceeds funding by $314.5 million or $360 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,270 per pupil, 33.3% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,190 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $3,890 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 28.8% of all funding, which is a decline of 4.98% from the previous year.
  • 6.68% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Colorado’s 2-year community colleges spend 2.80% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Connecticut

Connecticut K-12 schools spend more per pupil than most other states. The state receives comparatively little in federal funding. Connecticut ranks 4th in spending and in funding.

  • K-12 schools spend $23,450 per pupil for a total of $12.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.82% of taxpayer income.
  • Connecticut K-12 schools receive $669.1 million, or $1,310 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.51 billion or $8,850 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $7.21 billion or $14,150 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.75% of Connecticut’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.21% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Connecticut totals $12.4 billion or $24,310 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $438.3 million or $860 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $39,370 per pupil, 27.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,830 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $12,040 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 22.0% of all funding, which is an increase of 12.79% from the previous year.
  • 6.75% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Connecticut’s 2-year community colleges spend 13.5% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Delaware

Delaware spends more per K-12 pupil than the national average. The state ranks 22nd in spending and 19th in funding.

  • Delaware K-12 schools spend $16,640 per pupil for a total of $2.33 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.59% of taxpayer income.
  • Delaware K-12 schools receive $189.0 million, or $1,350 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.49 billion or $10,660 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $795.6 million or $5,690 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.53% of Delaware’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.29% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for Delaware K-12 education totals $2.48 billion or $17,700 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $148.3 million, or $1,060 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $33,110 per pupil, 44.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,070 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,190 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 38.6% of all funding, which is a 4.69% larger share from the previous year.
  • 8.21% of all postsecondary funding in Delaware comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.

National Map: Public K-12 Local Funding Per Student

Public Education Spending in the District of Columbia

While District of Columbia K-12 schools spend more per pupil than most schools nationwide, these schools spend less in terms of a percentage of taxpayer income. D.C. ranks 14th  in funding and 15th in spending. D.C. schools are the most dependent on local funding. 

  • District of Columbia K-12 schools spend $19,000 per pupil for a total of $1.69 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.55% of taxpayer income.
  • District of Columbia K-12 schools receive $166.6 million, or $1,870 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • Local funding totals $1.50 billion, or $16,850 per pupil.
  • Local funding is equivalent to 2.26% of the District of Columbia’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.25% of local taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in the District of Columbia totals $1.66 billion, or $18,720 per pupil.
  • District of Columbia school spending exceeds funding by $24.8 million or $280 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $38,420 per pupil, 21.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,990 per student.
  • Local funding averages $21,260 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 13.4% of all funding, which is a 36.6% smaller share than the previous year.
  • 0.19% of all postsecondary funding in D.C. comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.

Public Education Spending in Florida

Florida receives the third-largest amount of federal K-12 education funding. The state government funds education at a lower per-capita rate. Florida ranks 44th in spending and 43rd in funding.

  • Florida K-12 schools spend $11,770 per pupil for a total of $33.4 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.28% of taxpayer income.
  • Florida K-12 schools receive $4.76 billion, or $1,680 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $12.6 billion or $4,440 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $17.0 billion or $6,000 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.03% of Florida’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.33% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Florida totals $34.3 billion or $12,120 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $992.8 million or $350 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $18,140 per pupil, 30.5% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Among postsecondary schools, federal funding averages $1,550 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,330 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 17.1% of all funding, which is a 7.97% smaller share than the previous year.
  • 6.04% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Florida’s 2-year community colleges spend 1.6% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Georgia

Georgia K-12 schools spend less per pupil than the nationwide average. Georgia ranks 36th in spending and 37th in funding.

  • Georgia K-12 schools spend $13,270 per pupil for a total of $23.1 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.62% of taxpayer income.
  • Georgia K-12 schools receive $2.96 billion, or $1,700 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $10.3 billion or $5,940 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $11.3 billion, or $6,470 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.39% of Georgia’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal funding is equivalent to 0.46% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Georgia totals $24.6 billion or $14,120 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.48 billion, or $850 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $22,320 per pupil, 25.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,660 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,670 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 24.2% of all funding, which is a 1.35% smaller proportion than the previous year.
  • 7.85% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Georgia’s 2-year community colleges spend 11.2% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public K-12 Total Funding Per Student

Public Education Spending in Hawaii

Hawaii spends more per K-12 pupil than most other states. The state ranks 17th in spending and 16th in funding.

  • Hawaii K-12 schools spend $17,990 per pupil for a total of $3.12 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.39% of taxpayer income.
  • K-12 schools receive $371.0 million or $2,140 per pupil from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $2.85 billion or $16,470 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $19.1 million or $110 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.13% of Hawaii’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.40% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Hawaii totals $3.24 billion, or $18,720 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $126.6 million, or $730 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $38,450 per pupil, 34.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $6,130 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $12,120 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 13.4% of all funding, which is a 4.91% smaller proportion than the previous year.
  • 4.29% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Hawaii’s 2-year community colleges spend 18.0% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Idaho

Idaho schools spend the least of all states and rank 49th in K-12 funding. 

  • Idaho K-12 schools spend $8,750 per pupil for a total of $2.75 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.53% of taxpayer income.
  • Idaho K-12 schools receive $472.7 million, or $1,500 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.80 billion or $5,720 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $706.4 million or $2,250 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.30% of Idaho’s taxpayer income.
  • Idaho’s federal education funding is equivalent to 0.43% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Idaho totals $2.98 billion or $9,470 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $226.4 million or $720 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $17,950 per pupil, 35.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,760 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,890 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 27.0% of all funding, which is a 2.18% larger share than the previous year.
  • 6.56% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Idaho’s 2-year community colleges spend 12.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Illinois

Illinois ranks 7th in K-12 school spending and 6th in funding. Illinois schools receive more state and local funding in terms of a percentage of taxpayer income. 

  • Illinois K-12 schools spend $20,890 per pupil for a total of $39.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.44% of taxpayer income.
  • Illinois K-12 schools receive $3.20 billion, or $1,710 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $17.1 billion or $9,180 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $20.3 billion or $10,860 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 4.26% of Illinois’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.36% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Illinois totals $40.6 billion or $21,750 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.61 billion or $860 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $28,380 per pupil, 33.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,880 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,350 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 18.6% of all funding, which is a 9.52% larger share than in the previous year.
  • 5.57% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Illinois’ 2-year community colleges spend 38.6% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public K-12 State+Local Funding as a Percentage of Taxpayer Income

Public Education Spending in Indiana

Indiana ranks 38th in K-12 school spending and 39th in funding. The state receives relatively little from the federal government. 

  • Indiana K-12 schools spend $13,190 per pupil for a total of $13.7 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.40% of taxpayer income.
  • Indiana K-12 schools receive $1.20 billion, or $1,150 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $8.35 billion or $8,050 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.48 billion or $4,320 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.19% of Indiana’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.30% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Indiana totals $14.0 billion or $13,520 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $346.7 million or $330 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $23,150 per pupil, 39.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,110 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,070 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 34.5% of all funding, which is a 4.04% larger share than in the previous year.
  • 8.07% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Indiana’s 2-year community colleges spend 7.7% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Iowa

Iowa ranks 28th in K-12 school spending and 24th in funding. Iowa spends more when taken as a percentage of taxpayer income. 

  • Iowa K-12 schools spend $15,110 per pupil for a total of $7.72 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.04% of taxpayer income.
  • Iowa K-12 schools receive $866.3 million, or $1,700 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.02 billion or $7,870 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $3.05 billion or $5,960 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.70% of Iowa’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.45% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Iowa totals $7.93 billion or $15,530 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $216.0 million or $420 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $38,520 per pupil, 19.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,200 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,090 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 15.9% of all funding, which is a 20.0% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 8.13% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Iowa’s 2-year community colleges spend 18.0% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Kansas

Kansas ranks 20th in K-12 school spending and 28th in funding. Kansas schools are more dependent on state funding than schools nationwide. 

  • K-12 schools spend $16,880 per pupil for a total of $8.19 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.55% of taxpayer income.
  • Kansas K-12 schools receive $686.6 million, or $1,410 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.92 billion or $10,130 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.83 billion or $3,780 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.75% of Kansas’ taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.38% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Kansas totals $7.44 billion or $15,320 per pupil.
  • Kansas school spending exceeds funding by $758.0 million or $1,560 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $21,750 per pupil, 34.4% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,320 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,630 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 24.0% of all funding, which is a 5.43% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 10.4% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Kansas’ 2-year community colleges spend 26.6% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public Postsecondary Spending Per Student

Public Education Spending in Kentucky

Kentucky K-12 schools rank 32nd in spending and 34th in funding.

  • K-12 schools spend $14,040 per pupil for a total of $9.19 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.87% of taxpayer income.
  • Kentucky K-12 schools receive $1.47 billion, or $2,250 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.73 billion or $7,230 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $3.15 billion or $4,820 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.32% of Kentucky’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.62% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Kentucky totals $9.36 billion or $14,300 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $171.6 million or $260 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $31,460 per pupil, 20.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,460 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,750 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 15.8% of all funding, which is an 8.14% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 5.54% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Kentucky’s 2-year community colleges spend 9.0% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Louisiana

Louisiana K-12 schools rank 40th in terms of spending and 36th in funding.

  • K-12 schools spend $12,990 per pupil for a total of $8.88 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.49% of taxpayer income.
  • Louisiana K-12 schools receive $1.45 billion, or $2,120 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $3.58 billion or $5,240 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.65 billion or $6,800 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.23% of Louisiana’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal funding for education is equivalent to 0.57% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Louisiana totals $9.67 billion or $14,160 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $797.6 million or $1,170 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $21,760 per pupil, 28.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,530 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,710 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 25.9% of all funding, which is a 5.57% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 8.59% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Louisiana’s 2-year community colleges spend 12.3% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Maine

Maine K-12 schools rank 10th in spending and in funding. Maine also spends more on education relative to taxpayer income. 

  • K-12 schools spend $19,890 per pupil for a total of $3.44 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.09% of taxpayer income.
  • Maine K-12 schools receive $464.1 million, or $2,680 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.34 billion or $7,740 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.70 billion or $9,840 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.61% of Maine taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.55% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Maine totals $3.51 billion or $20,250 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $63.5 million or $370 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $18,810 per pupil, 32.4% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,460 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,270 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 25.3% of all funding, which is a 6.06% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 7.17% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Maine’s 2-year community colleges spend 17.0% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Public Postsecondary Funding Per Student

Public Education Spending in Maryland

Maryland K-12 schools rank 15th in spending and 12th in funding. Maryland schools spend more per pupil than the nationwide average. 

  • K-12 schools spend $18,340 per pupil for a total of $16.2 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.65% of taxpayer income.
  • Maryland K-12 schools receive $1.22 billion, or $1,380 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $7.49 billion or $8,500 per pupil among its public schools.
  • Local funding totals $8.70 billion or $9,870 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.66% of Maryland taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.27% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Maryland totals $17.4 billion or $19,750 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.24 billion or $1,410 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, Maryland public colleges and universities spend $25,200 per pupil, 28.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,850 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $9,780 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 23.2% of all funding, which is a 3.32% smaller share than in the previous year.
  • 8.44% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Maryland’s 2-year community colleges spend 25.1% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Massachusetts

Massachusetts ranks 5th in K-12 school spending and in funding. The state receives relatively little funding from the federal government. 

  • Massachusetts K-12 schools spend $22,910 per pupil for a total of $21.1 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.43% of taxpayer income.
  • Massachusetts K-12 schools receive $1.19 billion, or $1,290 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $8.48 billion or $9,210 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $10.9 billion or $11,830 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.15% of Massachusetts taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.19% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Massachusetts totals $20.6 billion or $22,330 per pupil.
  • Massachusetts school spending exceeds funding by $540.3 million or $590 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,280 per pupil, 34.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,040 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $9,550 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 27.0% of all funding, which is a 0.89% smaller proportion than in the previous year.
  • 8.98% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Massachusetts’ 2-year community colleges spend 19.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Michigan

Michigan ranks 30th in K-12 school spending and 26th in funding.

  • Michigan K-12 schools spend $14,550 per pupil for a total of $21.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.65% of taxpayer income.
  • Michigan K-12 schools receive $2.87 billion, or $2,000 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $12.1 billion or $9,030 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $7.18 billion or $4,990 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.35% of Michigan’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.50% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Michigan totals $22.1 billion or $15,370 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.18 billion or $820 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $40,040  per pupil, 24.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,600 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,380 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 25.3% of all funding, which is a 7.22% larger proportion than the previous academic year.
  • 6.30% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Michigan’s 2-year community colleges spend 9.67% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Minnesota

Minnesota ranks 19th in K-12 school spending and 21st in funding. Most educational funding comes from the state government. 

  • Minnesota K-12 schools spend $17,200 per pupil for a total of $15.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.80% of taxpayer income.
  • Minnesota K-12 schools receive $1.34 billion, or $1,540 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $8.89 billion or $10,210 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.12 billion or $4,740 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.30% of Minnesota’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.34% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Minnesota totals $14.4 billion or $16,490 per pupil.
  • Minnesota school spending exceeds funding by $613.5 million or $700 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $24,320 per pupil, 30.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,990 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,120 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 23.3% of all funding, just 0.03% smaller proportionally compared to the previous academic year.
  • 10.2% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Minnesota’s 2-year community colleges spend 23.3% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Mississippi

Mississippi ranks 43rd in K-12 school spending and 45th in funding. Public school spending is much lower than the nationwide average, but Mississippi taxpayers spend a larger proportion of their income on education. 

  • Mississippi K-12 schools spend $11,930 per pupil for a total of $5.27 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.81% of taxpayer income.
  • Mississippi K-12 schools receive $1.03 billion, or $2,320 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $2.46 billion or $5,570 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.84 billion or $4,160 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.11% of Mississippi’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.74% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Mississippi totals $56.5 million or $130 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $671.1 million or $1,520 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $32,880 per pupil, 21.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,050 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,330 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 15.5% of all funding, which is a 2.83% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 6.93% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Mississippi’s 2-year community colleges spend 24.5% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

National Map: Share of Public Postsecondary Funding Covered by Tuition

Public Education Spending in Missouri

Missouri ranks 35th in K-12 school spending and 32nd in funding. Missouri schools spend less than the national average on education relative to taxpayer income. 

  • Missouri K-12 schools spend $13,440 per pupil for a total of $11.9 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.36% of taxpayer income.
  • Missouri K-12 schools receive $1.53 billion, or $1,720 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $4.84 billion or $5,440 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $6.58 billion or $7,400 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.21% of Missouri’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.43% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Missouri totals $12.9 billion or $14,560 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.00 billion or $1,130 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $25,060 per pupil, 25.9% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,100 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,390 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 20.0% of all funding, which is a 5.68% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 14.6% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Missouri’s 2-year community colleges spend 16.6% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Montana

Montana ranks 29th in K-12 school spending and 30th in funding. Schools in Montana spend less than the national average on education per pupil and as a proportion of taxpayer income. 

  • Montana K-12 schools spend $15,030 per pupil for a total of $2.26 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.42% of taxpayer income.
  • Montana K-12 schools receive $424.9 million, or $2,830 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $899.0 million or $5,990 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $925.6 million or $6,160 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.76% of Montana’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.64% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Montana totals $2.25 billion or $14,980 per pupil.
  • Montana school spending exceeds funding by $8.64 million or $60 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $26,560 per pupil, 28.0% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,810 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,030 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 26.6% of all funding, which is a 3.15% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 7.77% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Montana’s 2-year community colleges spend 9.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Nebraska

Nebraska ranks 21st in K-12 school spending and 29th in funding. The state spends less per pupil but more relative to taxpayer income. 

  • Nebraska K-12 schools spend $16,640 per pupil for a total of $5.45 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.27% of taxpayer income.
  • Nebraska K-12 schools receive $484.6 million, or $1,480 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.60 billion or $4,870 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $2.90 billion or $8,860 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.52% of Nebraska’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.38% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Nebraska totals $4.98 billion or $15,210 per pupil.
  • Nebraska school spending exceeds funding by $468.4 million or $1,430 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $29,050 per pupil, 31.3% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,030 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $11,880 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 17.5% of all funding, a 0.20% larger proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 12.1% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Nebraska’s 2-year community colleges spend 19.5% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Nevada

Nevada K-12 schools rank 46th in spending and in funding. State schools spend a lower proportion of state funding than the nationwide average. 

  • Nevada K-12 schools spend $11,120 per pupil for a total of $5.41 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.69% of taxpayer income.
  • Nevada K-12 schools receive $627.4 million, or $1,290 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $3.14 billion or $6,450 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.55 billion or $3,190 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.33% of Nevada’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.31% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Nevada totals $5.32 billion or $10,930 per pupil.
  • Nevada school spending exceeds funding by $91.0 million or $190 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $18,520 per pupil, 40.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,510 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,730 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 22.3% of all funding, which is a 1.24% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 3.95% of all postsecondary funding in Nevada comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.

Public Education Spending in New Hampshire

New Hampshire K-12 schools rank 11th in spending and 7th in funding. Most funding comes from local sources. 

  • New Hampshire schools spend $19,630 per pupil for a total of $3.34 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.13% of taxpayer income.
  • New Hampshire K-12 schools receive $251.2 million, or $1,480 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.09 billion or $6,430 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $2.20 billion or $12,940 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.09% of New Hampshire’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.24% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in New Hampshire totals $3.54 billion or $20,850 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $206.2 million or $1,210 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $26,250 per pupil, 32.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,070 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,260 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 37.7% of all funding, a 2.92% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 17.1% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • New Hampshire’s 2-year community colleges spend 16.1% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in New Jersey

New Jersey receives relatively little K-12 educational financing from the federal government. The state’s schools rank 3rd in spending and in funding.

  • New Jersey K-12 schools spend $23,870 per pupil for a total of $32.8 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.44% of taxpayer income.
  • New Jersey K-12 schools receive $1.76 billion, or $1,280 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $15.0 billion or $10,960 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $17.5 billion or $12,740 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 4.41% of New Jersey’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.24% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in New Jersey totals $34.3 billion or $24,980 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $1.52 billion or $1,110 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $26,100 per pupil, 30.8% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,880 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,740 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 30.8% of all funding, which is a 9.59% larger proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 5.62% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • New Jersey’s 2-year community colleges spend 17.2% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in New Mexico

New Mexico K-12 schools rank 37th in spending and 35th in funding. Schools spend less per pupil than most other states, but taxpayers spend more on education than the nationwide average. 

  • New Mexico K-12 schools spend $13,230 per pupil for a total of $4.19 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.75% of taxpayer income.
  • New Mexico K-12 schools receive $604.1 million, or $1,910 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $3.15 billion or $9,930 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $744.1 million or $2,350 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.48% of New Mexico’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.54% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in New Mexico totals $4.49 billion or $14,190 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $303.3 million or $960 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $26,650 per pupil, 23.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,280 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $10,910 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 7.01% of all funding, which is a 15.8% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 1.79% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • New Mexico’s 2-year community colleges spend 19.3% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in New York

New York schools rank 1st in spending and in funding. Home to 5.16% of the nation’s K-12 students, the state receives 9.65% of all U.S. public primary school funding.

  • New York K-12 schools spend $30,280 per pupil for a total of $77.2 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.96% of taxpayer income.
  • New York K-12 schools receive $3.56 billion, or $1,400 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $29.6 billion or $11,600 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $45.0 billion or $17,670 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 4.79% of New York’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.23% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in New York totals $78.2 billion or $30,670 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $986.1 million or $390 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $30,290 per pupil, 32.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,130 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $11,780 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 14.5% of all funding, a 5.05% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 3.18% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • New York’s 2-year community colleges spend 21.2% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in North Carolina

North Carolina ranks 47th in K-12 school spending and funding. Schools spend much less per pupil and relative to taxpayer income than most other states. 

  • North Carolina K-12 schools spend $10,920 per pupil for a total of $16.7 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.66% of taxpayer income.
  • North Carolina K-12 schools receive $2.02 billion, or $1,320 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $9.85 billion or $6,460 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.20 billion or $2,760 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is 2.24% of North Carolina’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.32% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in North Carolina totals $16.1 billion or $10,540 per pupil.
  • North Carolina school spending exceeds funding by $581.3 million or $380 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $25,960 per pupil, 31.5%  of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,310 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $10,350.
  • Tuition accounts for 15.7% of all funding, a 6.15% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 13.9% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • North Carolina’s 2-year community colleges spend 24.1% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in North Dakota

North Dakota K-12 schools rank 18th in spending and 17th in funding. On average, schools spend more per pupil and relative to taxpayer income. 

  • K-12 schools spend $17,920 per pupil for a total of $2.09 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.97% of taxpayer income.
  • North Dakota K-12 schools receive $336.1 million, or $2,880 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.08 billion or $9,230 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $693.9 million or $5,940 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.36% of North Dakota’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.64% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in North Dakota totals $2.11 billion or $18,040 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $14.5 million or $120 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $26,420 per pupil, 36.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,820 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,520 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 28.0% of all funding, a 0.39% larger proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 7.66% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • North Dakota’s 2-year community colleges spend 9.32% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Ohio

Ohio K-12 schools rank 24th in spending and 23rd in funding. Spending per pupil is on par with the national average, but schools spend a little more relative to taxpayer income. 

  • K-12 schools spend $16,230 per pupil for a total of $27.33 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.96% of taxpayer income.
  • Ohio K-12 schools receive $2.45 billion, or $1,450 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $9.90 billion or $5,880 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $14.1 billion or $8,390 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.48% of Ohio’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.35% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Ohio totals $26.5 billion or $15,720 per pupil.
  • Ohio school spending exceeds funding by $863.8 million or $510 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $30,200 per pupil, 26.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,470 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,640 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 24.1% of all funding, which is a 2.99% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 5.90% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Ohio’s 2-year community colleges spend 7.16% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Oklahoma

Oklahoma K-12 schools rank 48th in spending and in funding. The state’s schools spend much less per pupil than most other states. 

  • K-12 schools spend $10,510 per pupil for a total of $7.34 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.24% of taxpayer income.
  • Oklahoma K-12 schools receive $1.09 billion, or $1,560 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $3.16 billion or $4,530 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $3.08 billion or $4,420 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.75% of Oklahoma’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.48% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Oklahoma totals $7.33 billion or $10,500 per pupil.
  • Oklahoma school spending exceeds funding by $5.60 million or $8 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,140 per pupil, 30.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,350 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,030 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 22.5% of all funding, which is a 1.44% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 10.7% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Oklahoma’s 2-year community colleges spend 11.5% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Oregon

Oregon K-12 schools rank 16th in spending and 20th in funding. Oregon spends more on public postsecondary education than most other states. 

  • K-12 schools spend $18,140 per pupil for a total of $10.5 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.86% of taxpayer income.
  • Oregon K-12 schools receive $822.8 million, or $1,430 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $5.32 billion or $9,230 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $3.67 billion or $6,380 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.32% of Oregon’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.30% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Oregon totals $9.8 billion or $17,030 per pupil.
  • Oregon school spending exceeds funding by $636.8 million or $1,110 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $41,700 per pupil, 21.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,260 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,510 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 16.0% of all funding, which is a 9.52% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 6.00% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Oregon’s 2-year community colleges spend 16.7% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania K-12 schools rank 8th in spending and 9th in funding. Schools in Pennsylvania spend more per pupil and relative to taxpayer income. 

  • K-12 schools spend $20,000 per pupil for a total of $33.9 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.96% of taxpayer income.
  • Pennsylvania K-12 schools receive $2.97 billion, or $1,750 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $13.0 billion or $7,670 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $18.8 billion or $11,090 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.72% of Pennsylvania’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.35% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Pennsylvania totals $34.8 billion or $20,510 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $864.3 million or $510 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $43,420 per pupil, 23.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,070 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,490 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 27.2% of all funding, a 2.47% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 5.57% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Pennsylvania’s 2-year community colleges spend 7.44% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Rhode Island

Rhode Island K-12 schools rank 12th in spending and 13th in funding. Rhode Island spends more on K-12 education and less on public postsecondary education relative to the national average. 

  • K-12 schools spend $19,580 per pupil for a total of $2.71 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.78% of taxpayer income.
  • Rhode Island K-12 schools receive $258.9 million, or $1,870 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.11 billion or $7,980 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.37 billion or $9,890 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.45% of Rhode Island’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.36% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Rhode Island totals $2.74 billion or $19,740 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $22.1 million or $160 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $21,520 per pupil, 33.5% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,160 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $5,340 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 35.6% of all funding, which is a 2.93% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 11.1% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Rhode Island’s 2-year community colleges spend 18.9% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in South Carolina

South Carolina K-12 schools rank 33rd in spending and in funding. South Carolina spends less on K-12 and on postsecondary education than most other states. 

  • K-12 schools spend $14,040 per pupil for a total of $11.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.77% of taxpayer income.
  • South Carolina K-12 schools receive $1.33 billion, or $1,700 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $5.16 billion or $6,610 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.86 billion or $6,220 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.45% of South Carolina’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.46% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in South Carolina totals $11.3 billion or $14,530 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $382.9 million or $490 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,160 per pupil, 33.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,520 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,160 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 32.5% of all funding, a 3.57% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 9.55% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • South Carolina’s 2-year community colleges spend 16.4% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in South Dakota

South Dakota K-12 schools rank 39th in spending and 38th in funding. South Dakota receives more federal funding per student than most other states, but K-12 spending per pupil is lower than most other states. 

  • K-12 schools spend $13,030 per pupil for a total of $1.84 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.02% of taxpayer income.
  • South Dakota K-12 schools receive $373.2 million, or $2,640 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $607.4 million or $4,300 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $932.1 million or $6,600 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.52% of South Dakota’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.61% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in South Dakota totals $1.91 billion or $13,540 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $70.8 million or $500 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $20,520 per pupil, 34.0% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,440 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,360 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 27.0% of all funding, a 3.98% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 6.55% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • South Dakota’s 2-year community colleges spend 11.6% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Tennessee

Tennessee K-12 schools rank 45th in spending and 44th in funding. Tennessee K-12 and postsecondary schools spend much less in education per pupil than the average U.S. school. 

  • K-12 schools spend $11,610 per pupil for a total of $11.6 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 2.76% of taxpayer income.
  • Tennessee K-12 schools receive $1.73 billion, or $1,740 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $5.35 billion or $5,360 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.99 billion or $5,000 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.46% of Tennessee’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.41% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Tennessee totals $12.1 billion or $12,110 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $499.5 million or $500 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $22,190 per pupil, 37.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,340 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,260 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 21.8% of all funding, a 9.90% smaller proportion than in the previous academic year.
  • 6.48% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Tennessee’s 2-year community colleges spend 18.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Texas

Texas K-12 schools rank 34th in spending and 41st in funding. Texas is second only to California in the size of its K-12 student population. 

  • K-12 schools spend $13,680 per pupil for a total of $74.3 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.89% of taxpayer income.
  • Texas K-12 schools receive $8.79 billion, or $1,620 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $23.6 billion or $4,340 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $36.9 billion or $6,800 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.17% of Texas’ taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.46% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Texas totals $69.3 billion or $12,760 per pupil.
  • Texas school spending exceeds funding by $5.01 billion or $920 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,510 per pupil, 27.7% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,910 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,160 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 14.1% of all funding, a 4.40% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 3.24% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Texas’ 2-year community colleges spend 9.57% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Utah

Utah K-12 schools rank 49th in spending and 50th in funding. Most educational funding in Utah comes from the state government. 

  • K-12 schools spend $9,480 per pupil for a total of $6.55 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.24% of taxpayer income.
  • Utah K-12 schools receive $637.0 million, or $920 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $3.32 billion or $4,810 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $2.58 billion or $3,730 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.92% of Utah’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.32% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Utah totals $6.54 billion or $9,460 per pupil.
  • Utah school spending exceeds funding by $10.3 million or $15 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $39,060 per pupil, 16.4% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,280 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined total of $6,630 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 11.9% of all funding, a 2.39% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 3.44% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Utah’s 2-year community colleges spend 2.92% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Vermont

Vermont K-12 schools rank 2nd in spending and in funding.

  • K-12 schools spend $24,670 per pupil for a total of $2.07 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.93% of taxpayer income.
  • Vermont K-12 schools receive $217.7 million, or $2,590 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.90 billion or $22,620 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $38.0 million or $450 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 4.61% of Vermont’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.52% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Vermont totals $2.15 billion or $25,660 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $83.5 million or $990 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $36,910 per pupil, 28.6% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $5,730 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,330 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 45.2% of all funding, a 1.53% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 10.8% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Vermont’s 2-year community colleges spend 3.59% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Virginia

Virginia K-12 schools rank 27th in spending and 25th in funding. The state receives very little educational financing from the federal government. 

  • K-12 schools spend $15,200 per pupil for a total of $19.0 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.13% of taxpayer income.
  • Virginia K-12 schools receive $1.75 billion, or $1,400 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $7.84 billion or $6,270 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $9.69 billion or $7,750 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 2.89% of Virginia’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.29% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Virginia totals $19.3 billion or $15,420 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $279.8 million or $220 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $29,660 per pupil, 29.4% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,690 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $6,120 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 25.5% of all funding, a 0.34% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 11.6% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Virginia’s 2-year community colleges spend 10.9% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Washington

Washington K-12 schools receive relatively little federal funding. The state ranks 13th in school spending and 14th in funding. Schools in Washington spend a little more per pupil but receive less federal funding compared to schools nationwide. 

  • K-12 schools spend $19,520 per pupil for a total of $21.1 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.53% of taxpayer income.
  • Washington K-12 schools receive $1.68 billion, or $1,550 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $13.9 billion or $12,830 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.96 billion or $4,590 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.15% of Washington’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.28% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Washington totals $20.5 billion or $18,970 per pupil.
  • Washington school spending exceeds funding by $600.1 million or $550 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $34,650 per pupil, 30.0% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $4,310 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,950 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 18.8% of all funding, a 3.22% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 6.88% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Washington’s 2-year community colleges spend 3.13% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in West Virginia

West Virginia K-12 schools rank 31st in spending and 27th in funding. Schools in West Virginia spend much more relative to local taxpayer income compared to the average school nationwide. 

  • K-12 schools spend $14,520 per pupil for a total of $3.67 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.13% of taxpayer income.
  • West Virginia K-12 schools receive $547.7 million, or $2,170 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $1.99 billion or $7,890 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $1.34 billion or $5,310 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.75% of West Virginia’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.62% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in West Virginia totals $3.88 billion, or $15,370 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $213.3 million, or $840 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $23,830 per pupil, 33.1% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $1,790 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $7,880 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 31.6% of all funding, a 4.58% smaller proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 10.1% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • West Virginia’s 2-year community colleges spend 7.56% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Wisconsin

Wisconsin K-12 schools receive relatively little from the federal government. The state ranks 25st in spending and 22nd in funding. Wisconsin K-12 and postsecondary schools spend less per pupil than the nationwide average. 

  • K-12 schools spend $15,970 per pupil for a total of $13.24 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 3.60% of taxpayer income.
  • Wisconsin K-12 schools receive $1.15 billion, or $1,380 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $7.17 billion or $8,640 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $4.93 billion or $5,950 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.29% of Wisconsin’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.31% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Wisconsin totals $13.2 billion or $15,970 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $6.64 million or $8 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $25,170 per pupil, 33.2% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $2,670 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $8,640 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 22.6% of all funding, a 5.63% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 5.63% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Wisconsin’s 2-year community colleges spend 21.8% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Public Education Spending in Wyoming

Wyoming spends more than average on K-12 education in terms of percentage of taxpayers’ personal income. The state’s schools rank 9th in spending and 8th in funding.

  • Wyoming K-12 schools spend $19,890 per pupil for a total of $1.85 billion annually.
  • Expenditures are equivalent to 4.36% of taxpayer income.
  • K-12 schools receive $233.9 million, or $2,510 per pupil, from the federal government.
  • State funding totals $976.1 million or $10,490 per pupil.
  • Local funding totals $718.3 million or $7,720 per pupil.
  • State and local funding is equivalent to 3.99% of Wyoming’s taxpayer income.
  • Federal education funding is equivalent to 0.55% of the state’s taxpayer income.
  • Funding for K-12 education in Wyoming totals $1.93 billion or $20,710 per pupil.
  • The difference between spending and funding is $76.9 million or $830 per pupil.
  • At the postsecondary level, public colleges and universities spend $27,760 per pupil, 32.4% of which goes toward instruction.
  • Federal funding for public postsecondary institutions averages $3,050 per student.
  • State and local funding averages a combined $13,420 per student.
  • Tuition accounts for 13.5% of all funding, a 23.2% larger proportion compared to the previous academic year.
  • 5.16% of all postsecondary funding comes from sales and services of auxiliary enterprises.
  • Wyoming’s 2-year community colleges spend 29.5% of what its 4-year public colleges spend in a year.

Sources

  1. National Center for Education Statistics, Digest of Education
  2. United States Census Bureau, Annual Survey of School System Finances
  3. United States Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis, Data
  4. Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Statistical Resources
  5. UNESCO Institute for Statistics Database, Education Statistics
  6. United States Department of Education, Budget History Tables