The Cost of Prom

Many juniors and seniors attend prom to make a memory during their final years of high school. It is the only one-time event in their high school years. However, since prom can be expensive, many parents are often burdened by the cost of their children attending’ prom. With the cost, is prom worth it?

The price of prom depends on the student’s gender. For many guys, it is cheaper. With the costs of tickets, suit rentals, and shoes, the price can range anywhere from $250 to $800. But most girls have a much harder time choosing the “right” dress, shoes, makeup, and hairstyles, and even pieces of jewelry. The cost for girls typically ranges from $500 to $1000. Do parents support this pricey and time-consuming event?

Jihee Moon, a parent of a daughter who will be attending prom, shared, “I first did not support my daughter going to prom, but since this is her first and last prom, I decided to let her go. But still thinking of $1000, it was definitely overwhelming. So I decided to reduce the cost by doing makeup and hair on our own. With that, it only cost us around $400.”

Yet, do students have the same opinion? Since only some of them can afford the cost for themselves, they may feel less pressured by the cost. Julie Cho, a senior at West Ranch High School stated, “It is probably overwhelming for my parents to pay the cost. But I think differently. I believe that it is one-time high school experience that you cannot go back to once you miss it. It will definitely be worth the cost.” On the other hand, another student commented that, “The price of prom only covers basically dancing. I would rather travel around with my friends with that cost.”

The distinction between the two opinions was clear. From many high school alumni though, they recommended that prom is a “must-go” that students will regret if they miss it.

Juniors and seniors, this is your final chance to wear a sparkling dress or a suit to make your last unforgettable memory before you leave for college! Of course, there are always ways to save money if you feel that the cost is too prohibitive.