WASHINGTON – The good news is that Americans are saving more than ever for college. The bad news is that the average amount wouldn’t come close to getting a person a degree.
In a report released Tuesday, the College Savings Plans Network found the average college savings or prepaid tuition account known as a “529” plan is now worth about $20,671 – almost double what these accounts were worth during the dog-days of the recession.
Called a 529 after a section in the federal tax code, these investment accounts aren’t the only way to save for college. But they are a popular option because the money grows tax-free, and withdrawals aren’t taxed so long as the money is used for college expenses.
The group, which tracks the state-sponsored savings plans, attributes the increase to several factors including a healthier stock market and improved economy, as well as greater consumer awareness of 529 plans and a growing concern among parents of the cost of higher education. According to the report, contributions to 529 plans jumped from $16.5 billion in 2009 to $22.5 billion.
At the same time, the $20,671 figure would only cover the first year at a public college or university. The average cost for a four-year public school, including room and board, is about $18,391 a year for in-state students but rises sharply – $31,701 – for those from out of state. Private schools typically cost even more with $40,917 for a single year of tuition, fees, room and board, according to recent estimates by the College Board.
Betty Lochner, chairwoman of the College Savings Plans Network, said the latest finding is good news because any amount saved is money that won’t need to be repaid with interest.
“The steady increase of total assets, account size and contributions in 529 plans, are positive signs that Americans recognize saving for college as a long-term commitment and investment,” Lochner said in a statement accompanying the group’s report.
Overall, the group found that college savings and prepaid tuition plans have climbed steadily since 2008, when the country fell into a recession after the crash of the housing market. That year, the average college savings account dropped to $10,690. The nation had $104.9 billion in assets managed under the savings plans at the time.
As of June this year, the average savings account almost doubled to $20,671 with total assets topping $244 billion. The group noted a particularly sharp increase in the first half of this year: Between January and June, total assets in 529 plans grew by about $17 billion.
